Highway 101 Construction in Buellton | Traffic Updates, Ramp Closures & Visitor Information
Buellton Remains Open During Highway 101 Improvements
Caltrans is currently completing major improvements to Highway 101 through Buellton to enhance safety, improve roadway conditions, and extend the life of this important transportation corridor.
While construction activities will temporarily affect traffic patterns and access points, Buellton remains open and welcoming visitors. Hotels, restaurants, breweries, wineries, attractions, shopping, and outdoor recreation providers continue to operate as usual throughout the project.
Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, allow a little extra travel time, and enjoy everything Buellton has to offer.
Construction Impacts and Traffic Changes
As part of the Highway 101 rehabilitation project, traffic has been reduced to one lane in each direction through the construction zone.
Drivers should anticipate slower speeds and occasional delays while crews complete roadway improvements.
Temporary Ramp Closures
The following ramps will be closed for approximately three months to allow for reconstruction and bridge safety upgrades:
- Santa Rosa Road northbound and southbound ramps
- Northbound Rufus T. Buell Drive/Damassa Road off-ramp
Highway 246 Remains Open
The Highway 246 interchange remains fully open and serves as the primary access route into Buellton during construction.
Caltrans has established signed detours directing motorists to use the Highway 246 ramps while the affected ramps are closed.
Plan for Extra Travel Time
Travelers are advised to plan accordingly and anticipate possible delays of up to 10 minutes while traveling through the construction area.
Getting to Buellton
Traveling Northbound on Highway 101
Visitors traveling north should use the Highway 246 interchange to access Buellton during the temporary ramp closures.
Traveling Southbound on Highway 101
Visitors traveling south may choose to use either the Avenue of Flags off-ramp or the Highway 246 interchange, which provides convenient access to Buellton’s hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Visiting Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country
All wineries, tasting rooms, breweries, restaurants, and attractions throughout Buellton and the Santa Ynez Valley remain accessible during construction. Visitors may experience slightly longer travel times but can continue to enjoy the region’s award-winning wine country and outdoor recreation.
Buellton Businesses Are Open
Construction may temporarily affect traffic patterns, but Buellton’s community remains open and ready to welcome guests.
Open and operating as usual:
- Hotels and lodging properties
- Restaurants and cafés
- Breweries and wine tasting rooms
- Shopping and retail businesses
- Outdoor recreation providers
- Local attractions and museums
We encourage visitors to continue supporting local businesses throughout this important infrastructure improvement project.
Stay Updated
For the latest project information, construction schedules, and traffic updates, please visit:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buellton still open to visitors?
Yes. All hotels, restaurants, wineries, breweries, attractions, and local businesses remain open throughout construction.
Which ramps are currently closed?
The Santa Rosa Road northbound and southbound ramps, along with the northbound Rufus T. Buell Drive/Damassa Road off-ramp, are closed for approximately three months while Caltrans completes reconstruction and bridge safety upgrades.
How do I get into Buellton during construction?
The Highway 246 interchange remains open and serves as the designated access route during the temporary ramp closures.
How much extra travel time should I expect?
Caltrans advises travelers to plan for delays of up to 10 minutes while traveling through the construction zone.
Are local businesses still open?
Absolutely. Buellton’s hotels, restaurants, wineries, breweries, shops, and attractions remain open and accessible throughout construction.
Thank You for Your Patience
These improvements will help create a safer, smoother Highway 101 corridor for residents, businesses, and visitors for years to come.
We appreciate your patience during construction and look forward to welcoming you to Buellton.
