Golden State Today

California is increasing law enforcement presence and support as the Pacific Coast Highway reopens in Los Angeles. Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered a significant deployment of California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers along the highway to ensure safety for drivers returning to the area. The reopening is scheduled for Sunday morning.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of safety, stating, "As the Pacific Coast Highway reopens, our top priority is ensuring the safety of everyone returning to this community. That’s why we’re surging CHP patrols and keeping the California National Guard on standby, reinforcing our commitment to protecting residents, motorists, and first responders in the days and weeks ahead."

The additional CHP officers will be stationed every half-mile between Santa Monica and Malibu. This move aims to protect motorists and maintain traffic flow. Meanwhile, local officials have requested a gradual withdrawal of the California National Guard's operations. However, Governor Newsom has instructed that they remain ready for rapid deployment if necessary.

The CHP and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services are providing resources and financial support to local agencies such as the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department. These efforts aim to ensure public safety in areas like Altadena and Pacific Palisades affected by recent wildfires.

CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee stressed caution among drivers: “The safety of our community, first responders, and road crews remains our top priority as we reopen this vital stretch of highway,” he said. “We urge all drivers to stay alert, follow posted signs, and respect the presence of personnel still working in the area.”

While public access resumes on Sunday, heavy-duty vehicles will continue debris clearance and recovery efforts in affected communities.