Caltrans has obtained $4 million in emergency funding to address a significant crack that has developed on the slope below Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) near Laguna Beach in Orange County. The crack, located near the Moro Beach section of Crystal Cove, measures approximately 360 feet in length and 2 feet in width. It was first identified earlier this month following a series of high tides and wave activity that impacted the slope.

According to Caltrans spokesperson Christianne Smith, the agency is awaiting approvals from California State Parks and the California Coastal Commission to close both southbound lanes of PCH in the affected area and convert one of the northbound lanes to accommodate southbound traffic. Currently, the right lane of southbound PCH, closest to the slope, is closed between Reef Point Drive and Irvine Cove Drive as a precautionary measure.

Efforts to protect other vulnerable areas along PCH, including a site in Malibu within Caltrans District 7, are also underway. However, Smith emphasized that the primary focus remains the Moro Beach slope near Crystal Cove, where the crack poses the greatest risk.

In preparation for anticipated storms, Caltrans has installed plastic sheeting over the crack to prevent rainwater infiltration into the slope, which could exacerbate instability. The emergency repair plan consists of multiple phases. The second phase, which involves reinforcing the slope by buttressing its base and installing rock armor to reduce erosion and movement, was scheduled to begin on Tuesday but had not received final approval as of Wednesday morning.

The subsequent phase is expected to involve coordination with California State Parks and other agencies to ensure long-term slope stabilization and the safety of PCH travelers. Caltrans continues to monitor conditions and adjust its response as needed to address this critical infrastructure concern.