A Lane Reconfiguration Plan Is Currently in the Design Phase
The California Department of Transportation has issued an update regarding the ongoing slide situation at Pacific Coast Highway and Porto Marina Way in Pacific Palisades. A Director’s Order has been authorized to permit an additional lane on the northbound side of State Route 1, north of Sunset Boulevard, to address safety concerns arising from a slide incident in mid-February, exacerbated by subsequent storms in March.
Referred to as the “Tramonto Slide,” the affected area has been a recurring issue over the years. Previous efforts involved clearing slide debris to the highway shoulder to reopen lanes. However, the recent slide, originating outside of Caltrans’ jurisdiction, poses significant challenges.
The emergency Director’s Order seeks funding for the creation of a second northbound lane to compensate for the closure of the right lane due to safety hazards posed by the slide, announced a release from the department. A lane reconfiguration plan is currently in the design phase, with a primary focus on ensuring the safe and efficient flow of traffic.
Given the limited space in the median, the plan necessitates shifting both northbound and southbound lanes toward the beach, utilizing the shoulder of the current southbound lanes. Construction efforts will involve grinding, paving, restriping, and the removal of lane delineators from the median, secured with concrete and bolts.
The projected timeline for completion of the project is up to two weeks, although an estimated start date for construction has yet to be determined.
The department also said recent research indicates that the majority of the property near the slide’s apex is privately owned, with some belonging to the city of Los Angeles. Once stabilization efforts begin from the top, Caltrans can proceed with repairs at the bottom of the slide.
