Pacific Coast Highway between Santa Monica & Malibu is now open for traffic. The recent Palisades Fire had closed the section of highway.
A popular stretch of California highway is reopening to commuters early.
The legendary Pacific Coast HighwayState Route 1 has been closed as of Jan. 7, 2025 due to the Palisades Fire The surrounding community was devastated. The highway runs from West Channel Road near the Will Rogers Beach State Park in Santa Monica, all the way to the Malibu Pier, officially reopened to public traffic on May 23 at 8:00am PT.
Since months, tourists and locals alike have not had access to this area. It was only open to residents or those who needed emergency access.
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced in a statement that the PCH would be reopened early with additional lanes, before Angelenos take to the roads this Memorial Day. news release. “We can do this because of the hard work of hundreds of road and construction crews, and the help of our partners in the Army Corps of Engineers.”
Local officials said despite the reopening highway, they will maintain a “robust” security presence to maintain order and ensure safety, especially in homes that were partially or totally destroyed.
According to local reportsThe reopened road has a speed limit of 25 mph. Drivers are warned not to stop in burn areas and first responders.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass stated in a press release that the government will “continue to protect the security and safety of Palisades neighborhood through a strict plan for security established in coordination with State.”
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Bass said: “The reopening Pacific Coast Highway is an important step in our recovery efforts in the Palisades. This will be the fastest recovery in state history.”
When the publication was made, the damage assessment of the Palisades Fire Report 6 837 destroyed structures with 12 confirmed civilian deaths.
While the fire destroyed thousands of homes, it rallied the community in support and service. Hilton and American Express donated over 20,000 hotel room stays For those affected and airlines provided extended waivers People who have upcoming travel can benefit from flexibility.