Caltrans: Paul’s Slide closure along Big Sur coast to reopen on June 23

MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Caltrans District 5 announced Highway 1 at Paul's Slide is expected to open on June 23rd.

This is ahead of the mid-July date previously given by Caltrans.

Caltrans said the new reopening time is because of recent construction progress.

The Highway hasn't been opened since a major slide back on January 14, 2024 caused 500,000 cubic yards to land in the roadway, according to Caltrans.

“The completion of repairs and the reopening of a 4.3-mile section of this scenic byway will begin to restore some normalcy for business owners and residents in the area," said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares.

Once the work is done, direct access to the Lucia, Camaldoli Hermitage and other parts of that highway will be available.

The total cost for this repair project is around $60 million.

Meanwhile, a 6.8 mile section of Highway 1 will remain shut down due to the ongoing repairs from the Regent's Slide at Post Mile 27.8.

Repairs there could last until late fall.

Original Story

Paul's Slide along Highway 1 is reopening mid-July after being closed since Jan. 2023, according to Caltrans.

An estimated 500,000 cubic yards of material had displaced and blocked the roadway last year. That stretch of Highway 1 along the Big Sur coast has a history of active slides and Caltrans said that the mountain continued shedding at various locations inside the repair zone, creating a challenge for construction crews.

"The southern closure of Highway 1, currently in place at Limekiln State Park, will move north and open direct access to the community of Lucia, the Camaldoli Hermitage, and area residents," wrote CalTrans in a press release. "In part to address slide activity at this location, the roadway has been moved slightly inland and elevated at its south end."

The road repair will have an expanded catchment area as well as a protective barrier and fencing along the northbound shoulder. Prior to reopening in July, Caltrans crews will install guardrails, more protective barriers and then final striping along the roadway.

Other slide repairs along Highway 1 include Dolan Point, which is set to reopen early summer, in addition to final repairs at Regent's Slide--final completion set for late fall. Caltrans is not allowing bicycles through construction zones at these sites. Cyclists can pass through convoys at Paul's Slide, however.

Drivers can get more travel information by visiting the Department of Transportation's interactive map on their website.