Governor Gavin Newsome | Official website
Governor Gavin Newsome | Official website
Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that a portion of the heavily damaged Topanga Canyon Boulevard on State Route 27 in Los Angeles County will reopen on June 2, three months ahead of initial estimates.
"Topanga Canyon Boulevard will reopen 3 months ahead of schedule, on Sunday, June 2! Thanks to around-the-clock work by @CaltransHQ, this critical roadway will once again connect coastal communities to the San Fernando Valley after being damaged during spring storms," stated the Governor's office via Twitter.
The original timeline projected the reopening for this fall. Caltrans crews have been working continuously to stabilize the area and clear the roadway. The boulevard will fully open with occasional one-way traffic controls as emergency repairs continue.
"I cannot overstate just how important it has been for the state and everyone involved to see Topanga Canyon Boulevard open as quickly and as safely as possible. Thanks to the diligent efforts by the state along with crews assisting on the ground and the support of locals, this repair work has exceeded all our expectations by opening months ahead of initial estimates," said Governor Newsom.
In March, severe storms hit California with high winds and heavy precipitation, causing significant damage to roadways including Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The hillside slid onto the highway, depositing dirt, rocks, and even a car-sized boulder. The unstable conditions initially prevented repair work due to safety concerns.
This blockage disrupted access for local residents, leading to hours-long detours and financial losses for local businesses. Additionally, Topanga Canyon Boulevard serves as an evacuation route for Topanga Canyon, making its reopening crucial as fire season approaches.
On May 3, Governor Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency to secure federal funding for repairing roads damaged during March storms, including State Route 27/Topanga Canyon Boulevard.
Click here to review a video message from Governor Newsom announcing the opening of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.
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