California’s renowned Highway 1 is set to reopen on Friday after a partial collapse and landslide near Big Sur forced its closure more than a month ago. The highway will resume operations at 6:30 a.m., accommodating one-way alternating traffic in both directions, according to Governor Gavin Newsom.
“Crews have been working day and night to quickly repair the damage to Highway 1 caused by recent storms, which has disrupted the lives of individuals living in and around Big Sur – limiting access to the area and hampering tourism,” Newsom stated. “Thanks to the diligent efforts, traffic will resume eight days ahead of schedule – bringing relief and a sense of normalcy back to one of California’s most iconic coastal communities.”
The road initially closed after heavy rains caused a significant section to fall into the ocean, affecting all state parks in the Big Sur area. As of now, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park have reopened for day use and will welcome campers with reservations starting May 23. Limekiln State Park remains closed, while Point Sur State Historic Park, though currently closed, is set to resume tours on May 25.
Repair crews installed 40 vertical and 75 sub-horizontal steel elements to stabilize the roadway. However, a permanent repair is in the design phase and is expected to be completed by spring 2025.
Big Sur, a 90-mile scenic stretch along Highway 1 between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon, is a major tourist destination known for its stunning coastal views and popular camping sites. The reopening of the highway is anticipated to boost tourism and restore normalcy to the area.