Caltrans has made tremendous progress in clearing US 101 through Montecito over the last week and reopened the highway in time for the Monday morning commute. The mud has been removed from the roadway and the critical work of clearing the drainage system continues. Additionally, Caltrans is working on guardrail and sign repairs, cleaning and sweeping the highway, and stabilizing the embankments.

“I could not be more thankful for the emergency responders, including Caltrans employees and contractors who are working tirelessly to reopen this critical highway,” said Caltrans director Malcolm Dougherty.” We appreciate everyone’s patience as we ensure that US 101 is safe to open.”

This massive cleanup operation by Caltrans maintenance and construction forces followed tremendous flooding and mudslides which closed US 101 between Santa Barbara and Carpinteria, including the closure of a quarter mile section of US 101 at the Olive Mill Road interchange in Montecito, which was covered in six to eight feet of mud and water.

“We are very proud of our dedicated Caltrans staff along with our partner agencies who have responded to this major natural disaster,” said Tim Gubbins, Caltrans District 5 District director. “We will continue to work 24/7 until immediately before opening the highway. We expect to be ready to open US 101 by the Monday morning commute.”

If the highway officially opens to public traffic prior to the Monday morning commute, it will be announced on Twitter (@CaltransD5) and Facebook (Caltrans Central Coast).

Also, various U.S. 101 off-ramps in both directions in the recovery zone will remain temporarily closed; however, the on-ramps will be open.

Motorists are advised to be alert for continuing truck traffic in the area and are encouraged to carpool or use alternate forms of transportation including the Pacifc Surfliner, which has added rail service.