The coast between Pacifica and Montara is unsurpassed in scenic beauty. Carved out of the steep cliff sides, Route 1 hugs the coastline for much of the distance between these two towns. In one part, the road crosses the aptly named Devil's Slide region, a steep, unstable geological formation. This section of road has a long history of closure due to rockslides and land slippage. One of the longest road closures happened in 1995. It lasted 158 days, and cost almost $3 million to repair. It was closed again recently due to another major slide. Following many years of public input and careful evaluation of alternatives, Devil's Slide will be by-passed by two inland tunnels, providing a safe, dependable highway between Pacifica and Montara.
For those working on California's first tunnel in 43 years, it's an opportunity of a lifetime.
You may listen to the "Devil's Slide" Radio report online, and view geotagged photos from this story on the KQED QUEST - Devil's Slide photo set.
Amy Standen is a Reporter for QUEST and Radio News at KQED-FM.