Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is set to reopen on Friday after being closed since January due to the Palisades Fire. The reopening comes just in time for Memorial Day weekend, a major travel period. The highway, a crucial route for connecting Los Angeles with Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and points north, has been restricted to residents, essential businesses, and repair crews since the fire.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced in April that PCH would reopen ahead of schedule, thanks to the efforts of local crews, Caltrans, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. According to Governor Newsom, crews worked tirelessly to clear debris, repair roadways, and install new utility equipment.
Initially, one lane in each direction will be open to the public. The reopening is expected to alleviate traffic congestion on the 405 and 101 freeways, which have been heavily impacted by the closure. The Automobile Club of Southern California predicts that 2.9 million Southern California residents will travel by vehicle this holiday weekend.
The reopening of PCH is a significant step in the recovery from the Palisades Fire, which caused extensive damage to the area. Crews have demolished damaged homes and removed toxic debris to ensure the safety of travelers. The highway’s reopening will remove current security checkpoints, but a strong law enforcement presence will remain.
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