LOS ANGELES (AP) – The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) has reopened as of Monday morning, nearly a month after its closure due to the devastating Palisades Fire, which tore through hillside neighborhoods in Los Angeles, causing extensive damage and destruction. The fire resulted in widespread property loss, impacting areas all the way down to the beach.
Traffic along the scenic PCH resumed at 8 a.m. with operations limited to one lane in each direction. Drivers are advised to adhere to reduced speed limits from Santa Monica to the Ventura County line. Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath emphasized that “essential traffic only is strongly encouraged” in light of ongoing cleanup and utility repairs. Horvath further noted that the highway “will not be the same PCH as before the fires.”
For those wishing to enter the Palisades burn zone, proof of residence or entry passes remain mandatory. This precaution underscores the continuing recovery efforts and the importance of maintaining safety in the affected areas.
The PCH had partially reopened on Sunday morning in the northernmost section in Malibu, but the complete reopening in the Pacific Palisades area faced delays. Los Angeles city officials decided at the last minute to retain checkpoints in order to address public safety concerns and potential looting. This decision came as part of a broader strategy to manage the aftermath of the fire effectively.
In a statement, Mayor Karen Bass announced that the Los Angeles Police Department would transfer access responsibilities in the Palisades area to the California Highway Patrol and the National Guard. This strategic move is expected to enhance LAPD's capacity to respond to incidents citywide, especially considering the department's ability to manage its resources has been significantly impacted during the month following the fire.
Mayor Bass remarked, “We continue to adapt in real-time to this dynamic situation. This plan secures the Palisades and eases the strain on the LAPD.” The focus remains on ensuring public safety while facilitating the city's recovery efforts.
As rain is forecasted to begin on Tuesday, local authorities will monitor the highway for potential hazards such as mudslides and debris flows. Supervisor Horvath highlighted the ongoing vigilance required to address these risks as weather conditions change.
The Palisades Fire ignited on January 7, during a period of intense winds, leading to the destruction or damage of nearly 8,000 homes, businesses, and other structures, claiming at least 12 lives in the process. Concurrently, another similar fire erupted in Altadena, resulting in the loss of 17 lives and impacting more than 10,000 homes and various buildings. Both fires were fully contained only last week, marking a pivotal moment in the recovery efforts for the affected communities.
The recent reopening of the Pacific Coast Highway marks a crucial step towards normalcy for the area, but the measures in place highlight ongoing recovery challenges. The community continues to navigate the complexities brought about by the tragic events of the past weeks.
