Regents Slide

Question

This forum has been pretty quiet the last few months. Is anyone aware of the latest on Regents Slide? Has work started? Is there an ETA?

Answer

Good question. Here’s the latest on the Regent’s Slide (Big Sur) situation, based on the most recent Caltrans and local reports:

Current Status & Progress

Caltrans is actively working on slope stabilization. Crews are installing long steel “shear dowels” drilled into the hillside to reinforce the slope above the roadway.
They are using remote-controlled heavy equipment (bulldozers and excavators) to safely remove slide debris in areas too dangerous for traditional machinery.
Monitoring remains critical — sensors detect surface cracking and ongoing ground movement, which has forced pauses and adjustments in the work.

Timeline for Reopening

The current estimated date for Highway 1 to reopen through the Regent’s Slide section is by the end of March 2026.
That estimate is not firm: Caltrans notes it could change depending on additional slide activity or weather, especially during wet seasons.

Challenges & Risks

The slide area is geologically active — in fact, some reports say it’s still moving more than a foot per day.
Worker safety is a top priority. Given the steep terrain, they are carefully balancing speed with caution.
Weather is a big wildcard. Heavy rain or storms could delay progress or even trigger additional slides.

Community & Economic Impact

Local businesses depending on Big Sur tourism have felt the effects deeply; the closure is one of the longest in Highway 1’s history.
The area remains partially accessible: more than 100 miles of Hwy 1 are open, but that 6.8-mile segment at Regent’s Slide is still blocked.

Bottom Line / Take-Home for Travelers

- Yes, work is ongoing and has ramped up, but this is a very challenging geological repair.
- The best current estimate for full reopening is March 2026, though this could shift.
- If you’re planning a Big Sur road trip, don’t count on being able to drive the full coastal stretch through that slide zone for now — check Caltrans’ project page for live updates.
- For now, you can still access many Big Sur highlights both north and south of the closed segment, but route planning needs to factor in the detour or partial closure.

Regents Slide

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