Strategies Include Increased Traffic Enforcement, Enhanced Infrastructure and a Public Awareness Campaign
Responding to statistics revealing a substantial number of fatalities along the Pacific Coast Highway, California’s transportation leaders announced the inauguration of the “Go Safely PCH” campaign during a press conference in Malibu earlier this week.
Joined by state and local officials at the Ghost Tire Memorial, California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin unveiled the comprehensive safety initiative aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries among pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.
“Go Safely PCH is more than just a campaign; it signifies a collective effort to ensure the safety of all travelers along this iconic corridor,” stated California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “By implementing infrastructure upgrades, bolstering enforcement measures, and fostering public education, we are determined to save lives and make PCH a safer route for everyone.”
The initiative encompasses various strategies, including increased traffic enforcement, enhanced infrastructure, and a public awareness campaign. Key elements include Caltrans investing $4.2 million for lane separators, crosswalk striping at all locations for increased visibility, more visible road striping, speed limit markings, more speed limit and curve warning signs, pavement upgrades, bike lanes and pedestrian access from the McClure Tunnel in Santa Monica to the Ventura County line.
The campaign’s launch comes in response to alarming statistics, with 59 fatalities reported on the Malibu segment of PCH since 2010, including the tragic deaths of four Pepperdine University students in October 2023, according to a post from the City of Santa Monica.
“Death and danger along PCH are unacceptable; we can’t wait to change the status quo,” emphasized Lindsey P. Horvath, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. “The ‘Go Safely PCH’ campaign will foster a safer scenic roadway for the Malibu community and all who enjoy our gorgeous coastline.”
For information on safety updates and campaign pledges, visit GoSafelyPCH.org
