MALIBU, Calif. – Motorists planning to travel along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu this weekend, June 22 and 23, should prepare for potential significant traffic disruptions. State transportation authorities have announced extended daytime lane closures that are expected to impact weekend summer travel along the scenic coastal route.
Understanding the Closure Details
According to an announcement from CalTrans District 7, a crucial southbound lane of PCH will be closed to traffic. The affected segment is located just south of Big Rock Drive, a point known for its stunning ocean views but also a potential choke point for traffic flow. The closure is scheduled to be in effect for a significant portion of the day on both Saturday, June 22, and Sunday, June 23.
Specifically, the southbound lane closure will run from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on both days. This 12-hour daily window encompasses the peak hours for recreational travel to and from the Malibu coastline, a popular destination for beachgoers, surfers, and tourists.
Reason for the Disruption
The lane closures are necessitated by a property clearing operation. This essential work is being conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a federal agency often involved in civil works projects, environmental restoration, and regulatory functions that can sometimes intersect with state infrastructure like highways adjacent to waterways or coastlines. CalTrans District 7, responsible for the state highway system in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, is facilitating the necessary traffic management for the Corps’ work to proceed safely and effectively. While the exact nature of the ‘property clearing’ was not detailed in the announcement beyond its description as an ‘operation,’ such activities are typically part of broader infrastructure maintenance, safety improvements, or environmental management efforts.
Anticipating Traffic Impact
The closure of a single southbound lane on PCH near Big Rock Drive during these hours is expected to have a notable impact on traffic congestion. Pacific Coast Highway serves as a vital artery connecting the Los Angeles basin with communities along the coast and destinations further north. Weekend traffic, particularly during the summer months, is inherently heavy as residents and visitors flock to the beaches, state parks, hiking trails, and numerous attractions throughout Malibu.
Reducing southbound PCH to a single lane in this area for 12 hours a day on both Saturday and Sunday significantly restricts capacity. This is highly likely to cause bottlenecks, leading to lengthy delays, particularly during late morning and afternoon hours when traffic volume tends to peak. Drivers heading south from points like Zuma Beach, Point Dume, or central Malibu towards Santa Monica and Los Angeles should anticipate substantially increased travel times.
Official Advisory Issued
In light of the anticipated impacts, transportation and public safety authorities have issued specific advisories to motorists. Drivers are strongly urged to reduce speed when approaching and traveling through the affected section of the highway. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of the workers operating near the live traffic lanes. Authorities also stress the importance of remaining vigilant for workers in the area and being prepared for unexpected stops or changes in traffic flow within the construction zone.
Crucially, authorities advise motorists to factor in extra travel time for any trips planned through the affected section of PCH this weekend. Relying solely on estimated travel times from navigation apps may be insufficient, as real-time traffic conditions during significant bottlenecks can escalate rapidly and unpredictably.
Timing and Summer Significance
This weekend’s lane closures carry added significance as they represent the first major traffic restriction on PCH in Malibu following the official commencement of summer. Summer officially began on Friday, June 20, ushering in the season associated with peak coastal tourism and the heaviest weekend traffic volumes. The timing of this property clearing operation underscores the need for drivers to be aware and plan accordingly as the region transitions into its busiest travel period.
Planning Your Weekend Travel
With potential delays looming, travelers are encouraged to utilize real-time traffic information resources before departing. Checking traffic apps, local news reports, and CalTrans advisories can help in understanding current conditions. While alternative routes parallel to PCH in Malibu are limited, particularly for southbound travel covering significant distances, minor detours or adjustments to travel times might offer marginal benefits. Ultimately, the most effective strategy for navigating the expected congestion will be patience and allowing for considerable additional travel time.
Local businesses and residents in the Malibu area should also be aware of the potential for delays affecting access to and from their properties and establishments during the specified hours on Saturday and Sunday. Coordination and awareness among the community will be key to minimizing inconvenience.
Authorities will monitor traffic conditions and work to mitigate delays where possible, but the fundamental reduction in highway capacity means delays are highly probable. Motorists are thanked in advance for their patience and cooperation in ensuring safety for both themselves and the work crews.
