Los Angeles drivers are bracing for increased traffic disruptions this week as significant repair work commences on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The construction aims to address infrastructure damage caused by the recent Palisades Fire and subsequent winter storms.
Caltrans crews are undertaking repairs on an 11-mile stretch of the PCH between Temescal Canyon Road in Pacific Palisades and Carbon Beach Terrace in Malibu. The work, scheduled to continue through Friday, focuses on repairing roadways, bridges, and retaining walls damaged by the January 2025 wildfire. Drainage and electrical systems are also being addressed.
During weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., drivers can expect reduced speed limits of 25-35 mph along sections of the PCH from Temescal Canyon Road to Sunset Boulevard and from Sunset Boulevard to Carbon Beach Terrace. Traffic controls are also in place along an 8.5-mile segment of the PCH between Chautauqua Boulevard and Carbon Beach Terrace.
Topanga Canyon Boulevard is also experiencing traffic controls from Monday night through Saturday morning, between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., on a 3.6-mile stretch between Happy Trail and the PCH. Speed limits in these areas are significantly reduced, with some stretches down to 15 mph.
The 2025 wildfires caused extensive damage, leveling thousands of structures along the Malibu coast and downing power poles and lines, leading to prolonged highway closures. The fires also weakened soil and vegetation, contributing to rockslides. Further erosion from storms in 2026 led to additional closures on Topanga Canyon Boulevard after parts of the road were washed out.
Officials advise drivers to plan for substantial delays or seek alternate routes. Real-time traffic information is available on the Caltrans Quickmap.
