𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗢𝗥 𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗘: Army Corps Clears Fire-Damaged Homes Along PCH in Malibu

On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continued Phase Two of the Palisades Fire recovery along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu. Crews focused on clearing fire-damaged properties, removing hazardous ash, structural remains, and other debris to prepare sites for rebuilding.​ Earlier in the week, USACE installed K-rails—concrete barriers commonly known as Jersey barriers—along PCH to create safe work zones for contractors operating heavy equipment. These measures aim to protect workers and facilitate reconstruction efforts.​ Property owners are required to submit Right of Entry forms to authorize debris removal. USACE estimates that approximately 4.5 million tons of debris will be cleared in the coming months, ensuring environmental compliance and safe rebuilding conditions.​ Due to rain and potential mudslides, PCH was closed to residents on Wednesday. Strict access controls remain in place, with National Guard troops, Los Angeles Police Department officers, Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputies, and California Highway Patrol (CHP) personnel manning checkpoints. CHP officers are enforcing a temporary 25-mph speed limit to accommodate ongoing cleanup and reconstruction efforts.​ The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, in Pacific Palisades, rapidly expanded due to severe drought conditions and hurricane-force Santa Ana winds reaching 100 mph. The wildfire scorched 23,448 acres, destroyed 6,837 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and surrounding areas. The fire resulted in 12 fatalities and multiple injuries before being fully contained on January 31, 2025.​ Recovery efforts remain ongoing as authorities work to rebuild and restore the affected communities.