Smith-Enke Roadblocks Restructure Today, Creating Long-Lasting Traffic Shift

Traffic disruptions are impacting drivers at the John Wayne Parkway and Smith-Enke Road intersection, as construction crews implement improvements aimed at increasing capacity for future traffic demands.

As of 5 a.m. today, lane restrictions eased for outer lanes, though inside lanes temporarily closed, causing significant congestion around 1 p.m. in all directions. The city anticipates these delays as a part of the ongoing construction.

The city’s project details include a new shopping inlet for the CVS parking lot and an additional left turn lane for eastbound traffic from Smith-Enke Road to John Wayne Parkway. According to a city statement, these changes are designed to enhance the intersection’s ability to accommodate higher traffic volumes.

Drivers should prepare for specific lane closures: Northbound on John Wayne Parkway sees the inner left turn and right lane closed, while southbound lanes mirror this restriction. Eastbound traffic on Smith-Enke is limited due to closed left turn lanes, while one lane remains open in the newly paved right lane. Notably, access to the CVS parking lot is restricted from this approach.

Westbound Smith-Enke allows right turns onto John Wayne Parkway via a modified free-flow lane, though previous entrances to the CVS lot have been adjusted. For those hoping to bypass the congestion, designated detours are in place. Monica Williams, a city spokesperson, advises using Honeycutt Road from the east to connect with John Wayne Parkway, while drivers aiming for State Route 238 should consider Edison Road as an alternative route.

The current restrictions are expected to persist until February, when crews are anticipated to complete paving and finalize the project enhancements.