New Southbound Freeway Ramp Opens at Newport Road

Drivers heading westbound over the Newport Road bridge will now enter the southbound 215 freeway via a looping on-ramp accessed from the right lane. This view is looking east at the oncoming westbound traffic. Menifee 24/7 photo: Doug Spoon

Editor's note: This story corrects a previous published post. This clarifies that the southbound on-ramp that opened this morning is for westbound motorists, not eastbound drivers. We apologize for any confusion that might have caused.

Caltrans today opened a new on-ramp to southbound Interstate 215 from Newport Road, making things a bit easier for motorists on the congested 215/Newport Interchange project.

Motorists traveling westbound on Newport Road over the bridge will now enter the southbound 215 from the right lane on a new looping on-ramp. That ramp opened early this morning and is marked with flashing signs on the approach to the bridge for drivers who will take a while to adjust to the change.

Previously, westbound motorists wishing to head south on the 215 had to wait for a left-turn signal before proceeding. The change eliminates the need for that left-turn signal.

The new on-ramp for eastbound motorists to the southbound 215 is not yet open, so those drivers must still proceed to the top of the hill and turn right to enter the freeway.

Work on freeway ramps on the other side of the bridge continues, with widening of the bridge to follow. For the latest updates, check the City of Menifee website here.