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On May 23, Topanga Canyon Boulevard reopened for the first time since the Palisades Fire swept through on January 7. The road is still rough, with many delays and road crews at work, Topanga residents rejoiced to finally be connected to the coast again. Here’s a look at the state of the road on the morning of the reopening. All photos by Suzanne Guldimann
The sign is all that is left of the historic Topanga Ranch Motel and the Reel Inn. Instead of the cluster of red and white cabins, sheltered in their grove of eucalyptus trees, there is an unobstructed view up the canyon.
Without the familiar landmarks the view is unfamiliar. The Feed Bin stood on this corner for as long as most of us can remember—but the view now revealed is one that existed before anything was built on this corner, and the hills are green again, and covered in wildflowers.
The speed limit on the reopened stretch of Topanga Canyon Boulevard is 25 mph for a good reason—numerous construction crews are at work, and the traffic alternates between one lane in several areas. The slow pace gives drivers an opportunity to see how nature is regenerating. Five months after the fire, the lower canyon is green again with new growth.
“Narrow lane” is not an exaggeration. K-Rail and chain link fencing protect vehicles from mountains of debris, including massive boulders.
The most damaged stretch of the road requires drivers to wait for a pilot vehicle to guide them through the construction zone. We took advantage of the delays to look at the hills, covered in white bindweed flowers and purple phacelia, and to enjoy an unexpected sense of homecoming.
Patience is required. Expect frequent delays on TCB and PCH. Even so, it’s a shorter drive than the long way round, and the welcome step towards recovery. Currently, TCB is open only during the day, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nighttime closures are in place to facilitate cleanup.
The lower canyon is almost unrecognizable. Tons of storm debris have been removed from the creek bed and the roadway and many trees are gone, leaving an unfamiliar view up the canyon.
