I-8 at West Willows Road Interchange

SANDAG | Caltrans

SANDAG is studying potential improvements to the interchange at West Willows Road and Interstate 8 (I-8) in the rural Alpine community. This interchange is a vital access point for residents, visitors, the tribal community, and the greater Alpine, East County, and unincorporated communities.

This study will identify potential improvements for the interchange while supporting the region’s long-term transportation goals and considering environmental impact. Goals include:

  • Improved safety and efficiency for the movement of people and goods
  • Strengthened emergency and evacuation access within the local transportation network
  • Enhanced connectivity between nearby communities
  • Improved clarity with updated signage and pavement markings that meet current standards

Project partners include Caltrans District 11, the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, and the Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay Indians. The Viejas and Ewiiaapaayp tribal governments will help ensure tribal priorities and community needs are reflected in project discussions. Caltrans will provide oversight for improvements that affect I-8 and the state highway system.

I-8/Willows Road Interchange Project: Study Area

Map showing I-8/Willows Road Interchange project study area including one view that shows the general location of the project between Alpine and the Viejas Reservation and another closer view. The closer view of the project area shows a dotted line around the area, the existing bridge across I-8, and the one and off ramps that lead to the bridge.

SANDAG is studying improvements to the interchange in this area.

Schedule and Funding

The study began in fall 2025, and we expect to complete the study by 2027. The project will follow Caltrans’ development process. As of mid-2026, it is in the Project Study Report—Preliminary Design Study (PSR-PDS) phase, which evaluates conditions and identifies potential concepts.

The project is funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) under the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program.

Community Involvement

We want to hear from Alpine, tribal, and area residents to understand local experiences and priorities that could inform potential solutions. 

Grow Your Future Fair 2026:
Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 3-6 p.m.
Viejas Recreation Center
1-B Viejas Grade Road, Alpine, CA, 91901

Check this page for updated information about public meetings, outreach events, and online engagement opportunities.

Contact willowsroad@sandag.org with questions about the I-8 at West Willows Road Interchange study.

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