Repaving project to partially close 405 Freeway this weekend. Here's what to know

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Be prepared for heavier traffic this weekend if you drive on the 405 Freeway.

Multiple lanes in each direction will be closed as Caltrans continues work on a multi-million dollar project.

The 405 from Wilshire to Sunset will have three lanes closed in the north and southbound directions, cutting traffic lanes in half.

The closure is part of a pavement rehabilitation project between Van Nuys and Westwood along the Sepulveda Pass.

"The pavement was in a condition where it needed to be replaced," Caltrans spokesperson Lauren Walike said. "And so we're investing money and putting in the work to get that taken care of."

The Sepulveda and Sunset on- and off-ramp will be closed, along with the Wilshire Boulevard on- and off-ramps. The Santa Monica Boulevard on-ramp will also be closed to traffic.

The $143.7 million project is expected to improve safety and extend the life of the pavement.

Caltrans says work is expected to continue about every two weeks in different sections of the 405 for the next 25 weeks. Work started two weeks ago, and residents say they're already seeing improvements.

"They did a beautiful paving job," Bel Air resident Bill Robles said. "It's the best I've seen, so something good is coming out of it."

Detours are in place, but further backups may be felt on connecting freeways.

"If you're heading to LAX this weekend, definitely plan ahead," Walike said. "The 405 is a common route to get to the airport. We want everyone to get to their flights on time."

The closures begin Friday at 10 p.m. and remain in place until Monday at 5 a.m.