Pacific Coast Highway fully reopened on Monday morning for the first time since the Palisades Fire devastated the area.
“As of 8 a.m. today, February 2, Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu and the unincorporated areas is open to regular traffic, with one lane in each direction. Like Supervisor Horvath, we were surprised by last night’s announcement from the City of Los Angeles delaying the reopening – only to now learn that while neighborhood turn-offs have checkpoints, PCH itself remains fully open,” a statement by Maliby Mayor Doug Stewart read.
According to L.A. Mayor Karen Bass’ office, the plan for checkpoints “secures the Palisades and eases the strain on LAPD.”
“My priority continues to be rebuilding the Palisades as rapidly and safely as possible,” she said.
KNX News Jon Baird reported that anyone trying to get into the Pacific Palisades needs to get a pass. To get a pass, you need to go to 1150 Pacific Coast Highway (Lot 3) in Santa Monica between 10 AM and 5 PM.
Contractors must show identification and proof that they were hired to enter the area.
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Not everyone is thrilled with the reopening. Baird spoke with Jonathan, a resident who believes PCH needs to be closed a little longer.
“Let the construction workers let all the utility people do their thing,” he said. “Let the residents have access, and so we're not dealing with all this traffic all of a sudden and just making everything harder that much, that much longer.”
According to the city of Malibu’s official website, Caltrans and L.A. County Public Works will monitor for any roadway hazards while Caltrans will also help with traffic flow. Deputies will also continue to increase patrols in burn areas.
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