Bill to Allow Speed Cameras for traffic safety on PCH Malibu Headed to Governor for Final Approval

Malibu, CA, August 30, 2024 - Senate Bill 1297 (SB 1297), authored by Senator Ben Allen and co-authored by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, has successfully passed out of the California Legislature and is now headed to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk for final approval. This landmark legislation aims to significantly enhance road safety by establishing speed cameras along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu.

SB 1297 addresses the critical need to improve traffic safety on one of California's most iconic and heavily traveled highways. The bill authorizes the installation of five speed camera systems along the 21-mile stretch of PCH within Malibu. These systems will be strategically placed in areas identified as having the highest incidence of speed-related collisions and fatalities. The goal is to deter speeding, reduce traffic accidents, and save lives in a community deeply affected by these issues.

Senator Ben Allen, the primary author of SB 1297, expressed his satisfaction with the bill's progress. "The Legislature's passage of SB 1297 brings us one step closer to making the Pacific Coast Highway safer for everyone. The introduction of speed cameras will play a crucial role in curbing reckless driving and protecting both residents and visitors. I am hopeful that Governor Newsom will recognize the importance of this legislation and sign it into law on behalf of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians along this stretch of highway."

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, principal co-author of SB 1297, also emphasized the bill's significance. "The approval of SB 1297 is just one more piece of the puzzle to save lives along one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in California. This legislation builds on our efforts that led to Caltrans to spend over $4 million on road safety improvements along PCH over the past year. Our work to make Malibu safer and to save lives has only just begun and I'm proud to continue working alongside Senator Allen to champion this important cause."

Malibu Mayor Doug Stewart highlighted the bill's importance for the community, particularly in light of the upcoming anniversary of a tragic incident that claimed the lives of four Pepperdine students on October 17, 2023. "SB 1297 represents a critical step forward in our ongoing efforts to make Malibu safer for everyone who travels along the Pacific Coast Highway. The loss of the four Pepperdine students was a devastating reminder of the dangers posed by speeding. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Senator Ben Allen, Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, and all the advocates, community members, and lawmakers who have worked tirelessly to bring this bill to the Governor's desk. Your dedication and support have been instrumental in getting us to this point. Now, I urge Governor Newsom to sign SB 1297 into law so we can start implementing these vital safety measures."

In addition to supporting SB 1297, the City of Malibu continues its comprehensive "all of the above" strategy to address road safety on PCH. This approach includes infrastructure improvements, enhanced enforcement measures, and community engagement initiatives. The City invites residents to participate in these initiatives focusing on improving safety and mobility for all road users.

For more information about SB 1297, the City's road safety initiatives, or to participate in upcoming workshops, please visit www.malibucity.org/pchsafety