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1300+CAJON PASS, CA — Drivers on Interstate 15 (I-15) faced major delays in both directions through the Cajon Pass on Thursday, September 10, 2026, as Caltrans crews carried out maintenance work along the freeway. Some motorists reported being stuck in traffic for two to three hours.
Southbound and Northbound Backups
As of approximately 11 a.m., southbound I-15 was backed up starting just north of Ranchero Road and continuing through the Cajon Pass to around Kenwood Boulevard.
Northbound I-15 saw similarly heavy congestion, with traffic backed up from around Kenwood Boulevard to Cleghorn Road.
The Cleghorn Road on-ramp to northbound I-15 was closed during the delays. Highway 138 was also heavily congested in both directions between the Phelan and Hesperia areas.
Cold-Patch Repairs Cited as the Cause
Motorists caught in the slowdown reported that the California Highway Patrol was holding traffic while Caltrans crews performed cold-patch repairs on the roadway.
Cold patch is a pre-mixed asphalt material crews use to quickly fix potholes and damaged pavement. Workers clear loose debris before pressing the material into place, and traffic can typically resume over the area soon after.
Part of a Broader Week of I-15 Maintenance
The Thursday delays came during a week of ongoing Caltrans maintenance along the I-15 corridor between North Fontana and Hesperia.
According to Caltrans, sweeping crews were scheduled to work along northbound and southbound I-15 on Wednesday, September 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with another sweeping operation planned for Friday, September 11, during the same hours, weather permitting.
The work involves moving lane closures affecting the No. 4 lane, auxiliary lanes, and right shoulders between Sierra Avenue and Oak Hills Road.
Caltrans said the sweeping is meant to clear debris, vehicle parts, dirt, and litter from the corridor to maintain safety and drainage.
What Drivers Should Know
Caltrans is advising motorists to watch for posted signage and reduce speed near active work zones. Drivers traveling through the Cajon Pass in either direction should plan for significant delays and allow extra travel time.
This remains a developing situation, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Injured in a Victorville Car Accident?
Freeway construction zones and heavy traffic backups like these often lead to sudden stops, rear-end collisions, and multi-vehicle pileups. If you or a loved one suffered car accident injuries on the I-15 or elsewhere in San Bernardino County, Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer is available to review your case and help you understand your options.
Our Victorville car accident lawyers are available to help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
About the Author
JEFFREY FAYNGOR, ESQ.
Jeffrey Fayngor is the founder of Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer and an experienced personal injury attorney dedicated to representing accident victims. He earned his J.D. from Whittier College School of Law and has recovered over $120 million for injured clients. He has built his practice around helping injury victims protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.