The burned properties along Pacific Coast Highway still need to be cleared.
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced on April 12 that Pacific Coast Highway which has been closed since the January 7 Palisades Fire will reopen by the end of May.
CalTrans representative Eric Manjivan said that only one lane in each direction will be open and the traffic lights will continue to flash red to keep traffic speeds at 25 mph, the posted speed limit. There will still be crews working along PCH.
In a statement to the press, Newsom said, “We understand how essential this route is for daily life and local businesses. Reopening PCH is a top priority, and we are going all in to get this done.” The governor is attempting to open the highway in time for summer.
Colonel Brian Sawser of the Army Corp of Engineers was asked during L.A. Mayor Karen Bass’ weekly meeting if the reopened road would hamper Army Corps of Engineer debris removal and the trucks hauling material.
Sawser said, “we are surging our efforts along PCH, now. Trying to clear it as fast as possible.”
To do that they are bringing more crews to tackle the beach front homes in Malibu, while still continuing efforts in Pacific Palisades. Sawser said the hope is that by mid-May they will have 60 percent of the Palisades lots cleared of those who have opted in.
Sawser said that the Corps might have to preload along the beach and also said a traffic study may be needed when PCH opens.
CTN asked the Mayor’s office if there would still be check points at Sunset Boulevard and Entrada. That question went unanswered.
In an April 15 email to Caltrans Public Information Officer Miranda Myers, she was asked if Highway 27 (Topanga) would be reopened by May 31.
“Caltrans is aiming to open one lane to essential business travel during dedicated times and with an escort and possibly shuttles to provide residents access once it’s deemed safe,” Myers said. “Although reopening the roadway is dependent on cleanup, repair work and weather, Caltrans stands ready to execute this interim reopening plan in coordination with the CHP, utilities, and any affected public agencies as soon as it is safe to do so. Here is the latest update for TCB: Update: Topanga Canyon Boulevard (SR-27) Fire Recovery and Repairs Continue | Caltrans”
Newsom said that once PCH is reopened security checkpoints on the north and south ends of the closure will be removed, but a robust law enforcement would remain in place.
Typical summer traffic along PCH. Photo taken from the Via de las Olas Bluffs in Pacific Palisades.