Pacifica Readies for the Tunnel Opening

In five days, the Tom Lantos Tunnels will be open and the stretch of Highway 1 known as Devil's Slide will be closed to traffic forever. Plans for a special invite-only ribbon-cutting ceremony and vehicle parade on March 25 to celebrate the grand opening of the twin tunnels are currently underway.

For many, the long-awaited completion of the $439 million project between Pacifica and Montara not only means a safer passage along Highway 1, but also the promise of an economic upswing for the area.

"The Devil's Slide tunnels represent one of the greatest engineering marvels ever constructed in California in the past 50 years,” said Courtney Conlon, Pacifica Chamber of Commerce CEO. “The completion of the Devil’s Slide will bring an end to the countless road closures and loss of revenue endured by those living on the Coast. The tunnel opening truly signifies a tourism boost for our communities, which in turn will help create a stronger local economy."

The long-term road closures in the past had devastating effects on the local economies, including those in Pacifica and Half Moon Bay.

But as Caltrans spokesperson Bob Haus writes in a recent prepared press release, “the days of washed out highways, prolonged closures and stranded communities will finally be behind us.”

According to Caltrans District 4 Director Bijan Sartipi, Caltrans took great pride in this project, “not only for the relief it will bring to the local communities, but also for the great care we took in preserving the surrounding environment,” he said. “Both the tunnels and the new bridges were designed to have the lowest impact possible.”

The opening of the Devil’s Slide Tunnel also brings with it even more benefits for residents and visitors alike, adds Conlon. Scenic trails with panoramic views will replace the old Highway 1 “Devil’s Slide” span which historically has had numerous problems with road closures resulting from rock and road slides.  

Cheryl Yoes, president of the Chamber Board of Directors, says she’s also very proud of the work done by Caltrans because it will “provide a safe, reliable, and beautiful Highway 1 improvement,” she said. “Highway 1 is an important regional arterial for both commerce and our visitors to the Coastside and with the completion of the last section of Highway 1 improvement between Vallemar and Rockaway, we will have an attractive and safe transportation arterial serving the entire state."

The Pacifica of Chamber of Commerce is optimistic that the new tunnels will be an attraction in and of themselves, contributing to Pacifica’s appeal as a place to visit and live.

“We invite everyone to discover all the wonderful things that make Pacifica an unforgettable experience and incredible place to visit, shop, dine, and live,” said Conlon.

Are you excited for the tunnels opening? How do you think the new tunnels will change your life, if at all?

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