The California Department of Transportation has received authority for $2.5 million in state emergency funds to protect the Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1) from falling debris and rocks following the Camarillo Springs Fire. A contractor has begun to place temporary barrier (K-rail) along the shoulder in locations between Malibu and Camarillo. He will also place rock fencing atop the K-rail in steeper slope areas to prevent sand, gravel and rocks that are continuing to fall onto the road after the fire loosened the soil and burned vegetation holding the slope.

A Caltrans geotechnical engineer surveyed the area this morning and determined that the slope is stable and landslides are not expected. In a few weeks, engineers will determine if further protection of the slope is necessary to prevent landslides during winter rains. If rain predicted for tomorrow through Tuesday is heavy enough to cause landslides, the highway may need to be closed again.

The highway re-opened last night just after 7:30 p.m. with the California Highway Patrol escorting motorists to ensure safe passage. Escorts have ended, but Caltrans maintenance crews are still plowing the road to remove rocks and debris that continue to pool on the shoulder.

Motorists are advised to watch for Caltrans trucks, contractor crews and debris and reminded to drive carefully through the area or take U.S. Highway 101 as an alternate route.