𝗧𝗛𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗪𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗞𝗔𝗚𝗘: A Bus Ride Through Fire-Ravaged PCH and Malibu’s Scarred Coastline

MALIBU, CA – Santa Monica Closeup traveled aboard a Metro Bus on Line 134 from Trancas Canyon Road in Malibu to the Santa Monica Pier on Monday, March 3, 2025, documenting ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Palisades Fire. The highway, still closed to the public, serves as a crucial operations hub for rebuilding fire-damaged areas. The elevated view from the bus provided a unique perspective of the devastation.

LA Metro has partially resumed service on Line 134, reconnecting Malibu and Santa Monica for the first time since the fire shut down the route nearly two months ago. The limited service, which began on February 28, offers a vital transportation link for residents, workers, and commuters navigating the recovery process.

Metro Line 134 now serves stops at the Malibu Pier, Cross Creek Road, Civic Center Way, and Malibu Canyon Road, extending to Trancas Canyon Road in Malibu and into Santa Monica, where it connects with the E Line Station and Ocean Avenue. However, buses will not stop along a 10-mile work zone between PCH/Temescal Canyon Road and PCH/Rambla Vista to ensure passenger and worker safety.

“Resuming service on Line 134 is a crucial step toward supporting the residents and commuters who depend on this route,” said Metro Board Member and LA County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “We are committed to restoring connectivity as quickly as recovery conditions allow.”

Public access to PCH remains heavily restricted, with only one lane open in each direction and a 25-mph speed limit enforced. National Guard Military Police continue to staff checkpoints, allowing entry only to first responders, authorized personnel, and select press. Residents and contractors must obtain special entry passes.

Metro Board Chair Janice Hahn emphasized the urgency of restoring transit access, stating, “It is important that as we recover from these fires, we get this service back up and running as soon as possible for our riders.” Malibu Mayor Doug Stewart added, “This modified service balances safety with ensuring that residents, workers, and businesses have reliable transportation. We are grateful for LA Metro’s partnership.”

Delays are expected due to ongoing lane restrictions, and Metro has stated that schedules may be adjusted as conditions evolve. Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins underscored the significance of the restoration, stating, “January’s wildfires devastated the region, making this partial service restoration an important step in recovery.”

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, burned over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley. Strong Santa Ana winds and extreme drought conditions fueled its rapid spread, overwhelming emergency response efforts. The disaster resulted in five fatalities and numerous injuries, leaving lasting impacts on the region.

As recovery continues, Metro’s partial service restoration represents progress in reconnecting affected communities and supporting those impacted by the disaster.

#PalisadesFire #Malibu #SantaMonica #LAMetro #DisasterRecovery #PublicTransit

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Fabian Lewkowicz is an award-winning photojournalist based in Santa Monica and the creator of 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗽. Known for his compelling imagery and neutral reporting, his work captures the pulse of the city—from civic affairs and emergency response to cultural moments and beach life. His photography has been showcased in galleries, museums, and public installations.
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