A large section of California’s Highway 1 collapsed into the ocean near Big Sur following heavy weekend rains, leaving as many as 1,600 people stranded in the coastal community. Caltrans reopened a single lane for convoys of vehicles on Monday morning, with observers on-site to ensure the safety of the roadway. The collapse occurred near Rocky Creek Bridge, causing traffic to back up for miles in both directions. Businesses in Big Sur had employees trapped in town and offered assistance to motorists, with some staying overnight in their vehicles or at the Big Sur Lodge.
Motorists, including Linda Molinari of Hollister, California, found themselves stranded in Big Sur after going out for lunch on Saturday. Molinari and her boyfriend slept in his van overnight, missing out on Easter celebrations while waiting for the road to reopen. Another convoy of vehicles was escorted through the area on Monday afternoon, with additional convoys planned for the following days. Caltrans announced plans to install concrete barriers to create a safe lane for vehicles and protect construction workers, but the timeline for reopening the road remains uncertain.
Engineering crews will focus on stabilizing the edge of the roadway to prevent further collapses, though it is unclear how long repairs will take. Highway 1 is known for frequent closures due to collapses, mudflows, and rockslides during severe weather events. Fortunately, the region experienced a break from heavy rains over the weekend, with dry conditions expected in the coming days. Meteorologists predict only a chance of light rain on Thursday, providing some relief for road workers and travelers in the area.
The closure of Highway 1 near Big Sur has disrupted travel plans for many motorists, with businesses and residents in the coastal community facing challenges. Kirk Gafill, the manager of Nepenthe restaurant, reported that several employees were unable to leave town and had to find temporary accommodations. The Big Sur Lodge opened its conference room to provide shelter for stranded motorists, while others were advised to avoid the area if possible. Despite the inconvenience, officials are working to ensure the safety of the roadway and expedite repairs to reopen the highway for normal traffic flow.
As repairs continue on Highway 1, motorists are advised to stay updated on road conditions and plan alternate routes if traveling through the Big Sur area. Caltrans will prioritize the safety of travelers and workers during the construction process, with concrete barriers being installed to secure the roadway. The iconic route is a popular tourist destination but is prone to closures due to its rugged coastal terrain. With dry weather in the forecast, engineers are optimistic about making progress on repairs, but the timeline for reopening the road remains uncertain. Travelers are urged to exercise caution and patience as they navigate through the affected area.
