to the editor: Maybe this silver lining is a golden opportunity for the California Coastal Commission to restore that glorious, unobstructed view along the Pacific Coast Highway to the public in perpetuity (“Post-fire Malibu's silver lining: A safer Pacific Coast Highway” October 22). While it is undoubtedly sad and painful for those who live by the ocean to have lost their homes, perhaps it is actually a blessing in disguise.
Most of those structures were shod over incredibly small fragments of sand between the road and the sea, destined to be destroyed by the next vigorous storm generated by the inexorably rising tides of climate change.
Instead of rebuilding these precarious structures, the Coastal Commission should take advantage of this unique moment and buy out the owners and restore coastal access to the public, according to its mission.
Financial complications would certainly be daunting, but not impossible, and the time has come. The buildings have disappeared; don't rebuild them.
Sarah Tamor, Santa Monica
..
to the editor: Is there anyone besides me who would love to continue enjoying those ocean views while driving the PCH? While it is unlikely that the state of California will choose to acquire this property through eminent domain, perhaps generous tax credits could motivate landowners facing high construction costs, an eroding coastline, and rising sea levels to donate their land to the state.
Janet Davis, Marina del Rey
