Lane Reduction on Northbound Highway 101 North of Buellton set to Begin Tuesday, May 26

Grab an extra cup of coffee and maybe a good audiobook if you’re heading north on the 101 next week. Starting Tuesday, May 26, Caltrans will be reducing northbound Highway 101 to one lane just north of Buellton, right where it meets the 154 interchange. According to the *Santa Barbara Independent*, this lane reduction is part of ongoing work, and for those of us who regularly make the trek up to Solvang or points beyond, it’s a friendly heads-up to plan for some extra time.

For Santa Barbara folks, this spot is a familiar pinch point—it’s the gateway to the Santa Ynez Valley wine country and a key route for weekend getaways or commutes to the north county. The timing right after Memorial Day means we’ll likely see delays as summer travel picks up. So whether you’re heading to a tasting room or just escaping the fog, consider taking the 101 early or exploring back roads like the scenic Foxen Canyon. It’s a small inconvenience for the long-term improvements, but a little neighborly patience goes a long way on our Central Coast highways.