State Route 2 – Angeles Crest Highway Winter Storm Repairs
Location
State Route 2 (SR-2 / Angeles Crest Highway) in Los Angeles County within the Angeles National Forest. The closure extends from 3.3 miles east of Newcomb’s Ranch to Big Pines Highway, affecting nearly 30 miles of the highway.
The Projects
Caltrans is performing three emergency repair projects to address storm-related damage along SR-2. Planned repairs include the following activities at multiple locations along the corridor:
- Installation of K-rail barriers around washed-out shoulders and roadway sections
- Installation of temporary traffic signals at traffic restriction locations to provide one-way traffic control
- Repair of eroded slopes and embankments beneath the roadway
- Reconstruction of shoulders and slopes to original design grades
- Installation of erosion control measures to help prevent further damage
Background
SR-2 passes through the San Gabriel Mountains, where steep terrain and naturally variable conditions can contribute to rainfall-related impacts, such as rockfalls, landslides, washouts, debris flows, and roadway erosion.
In recent months, unprecedented rainfall affected the region, resulting in damage along multiple locations of the highway. Crews have been conducting detailed inspections to assess the extent of the damage, prioritize repairs, and develop safe and effective plans to restore the highway.
To date, Caltrans crews have identified approximately 40 locations that require repair, though this number may grow as assessments continue. Some areas remain temporarily inaccessible due to washouts, and additional evaluations, including photogrammetric surveys in certain sections, are part of ongoing efforts to plan and carry out repairs. These efforts are focused on stabilizing slopes, repairing damaged roadway sections, and restoring safe travel along SR-2 as quickly and safely as possible.
The emergency repair work along SR-2 is focused on addressing storm-related damage, including washouts, rockfalls, landslides, debris flows, and roadway erosion. Repairs are intended to stabilize affected areas and restore damaged roadway, slopes, shoulders, and embankments.
These efforts support the safe operation of SR-2 by addressing identified damage and improving conditions along the corridor as repairs progress.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Why is SR-2 closed?
SR-2 is closed due to storm-related damage caused by recent unprecedented rainfall. The damage includes washouts, rockfalls, landslides, debris flows, roadway erosion, and other impacts at multiple locations along the corridor. The closure allows crews to safely assess conditions and perform emergency repairs.
Q: What is the anticipated timeline for reopening SR-2?
At this time, there is no anticipated timeline for the completion of assessments or the reopening of SR-2. Damage varies along the nearly 30-mile closed corridor, and crews are continuing to evaluate conditions and perform emergency repairs. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Q: What work is being done to repair the highway?
Caltrans is performing three emergency repair projects to address storm-related damage along SR-2. Repairs include debris removal, installation of K-rail barriers, temporary traffic control measures, repairs to eroded slopes and embankments, reconstruction of shoulders and slopes, and installation of erosion control measures at multiple locations along the corridor.
Q: How extensive is the damage?
To date, Caltrans crews have identified approximately 40 locations requiring repair, though this number may increase as assessments continue. In several areas, portions of the highway were washed out and remain temporarily inaccessible. Additional evaluations, including photogrammetric surveys in certain sections, are part of ongoing efforts to assess conditions and plan repairs.
Q: How much will the emergency repairs cost?
The three emergency repair projects currently total $16.8 million. As damage assessments continue and additional repair needs are identified, the overall cost may be adjusted to reflect the full scope of work.
Q: How will the public receive updates on the closure and repairs?
Caltrans will continue to provide regular updates as work progresses. Information will be shared through news releases, Caltrans social media channels, and other official communication platforms as assessments advance and a clearer timeline becomes available.
Follow our social media for updates:
@CaltransDistrict7 (Instagram, Threads, Facebook)
@CaltransDist7 (X)
Q: What should motorists expect, and how can they plan ahead?
Motorists should expect continued closures and delays in the SR-2 corridor and are encouraged to plan alternate routes while emergency repairs and assessments are underway. For the most current road conditions and closure information, travelers can visit Caltrans QuickMap (https://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/).