SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) issued the following statement in response to the collapse of Highway 1 south of the Rocky Creek Bridge at Palo Colorado, which stranded an estimated 1,600 people:
"Big Sur is an important region both for its unrivaled beauty and for its economic contributions to the California economy. Residents don't just make Big Sur their home, they provide important services and supports to visitors year-round.
"Our changing climate has exacerbated the danger that coastal communities' face. Since receiving reports of the Rocky Creek slide from concerned residents on Saturday, my team and I have been tirelessly dedicated to addressing the situation. I remain in direct contact with local, state, and federal partners to ensure visitors and residents are safe, able to access supplies, and when needed, leave the area.
"This incident is yet, another example of the vulnerability our coastal communities face. Chairing the Central Coast Caucus, my colleagues and I remain steadfast in advocating for critical funding for coastal resiliency, infrastructure, and emergency preparedness. It is vital for California coastal communities to have the resources they need to meet the challenges of climate change head on. I strongly encourage individuals requiring state assistance to contact our office promptly. We remain fully accessible for any assistance required."
Starting today, convoys are anticipated to evacuate residents and move essential workers for the next several days. Convoys will be available at 8am and 4pm from Rocky Creek Bridge.
Dawn Addis was elected to the California State Assembly in 2022 to represent the coastal 30th Assembly District, which includes San Luis Obispo, Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties.
CONTACT: Julie Cravotto, 916-319-2030