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Highway 1 through Big Sur reopens after three years of landslide repairs
Highway 1 in Big Sur reopened after three years following landslide damage repairs.
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Ezra Shaw
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Getty Images
)
Topline:
The iconic Highway 1 in Big Sur reopened today – months ahead of schedule – after undergoing repairs from landslide damage. For the first time in three years, residents and visitors will be able to travel along the scenic 7-mile stretch of road between Carmel and Cambria.
Background: Back-to-back destructive landslides caused the coastline road to be closed for repairs since January 2023. The coastal road is no stranger to closures due to landslide damage. The U.S. Geological Survey identified 75 miles of the Big Sur coastline as one of the most landslide-prone areas in the western United States, officials said.
What we know: Caltrans removed about 6,000 cubic yards of mud and debris to clear the way for drivers using remote-controlled bulldozers and excavators. Crew members also installed steel bars into the hillside slopes to prevent future landslides.
Is the coast clear for drivers? For now, yes. But officials say winter storm conditions could lead to temporary closures along Highway 1 and other parts of the coastline. Some ongoing construction could also cause delays.
Officials say: Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement that the reopening of the “vital corridor” brings much-needed relief to small businesses and families.
Dig deeper … into why Highway 1 is constantly at-risk of falling into the ocean.
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