The Woolsey Fire destroyed a bridge on Mulholland Highway near The Old Place steakhouse and Troutdale when its steel beams melted from the extreme heat. As a result, LA County’s road closure website states that Mulholland will remain closed between Troutdale Road and Waring Drive until an estimated date of May 31, 2019.
On Nov. 9, CBS News reported, “The Woolsey Fire burned so hot that the steel supports of some roads and bridges gave way. One of those severely damaged bridges was along the famed Mulholland Highway, considered one of the most popular scenic drives in Southern California. The steel supports of the bridge between Troutdale and Waring drives simply gave way to the heat of the fire.”
In that same area, Peter Strauss Ranch and Paramount Ranch were both damaged, but The Old Place steakhouse and Ed & Vern’s Rock Store—a longtime favorite stopping point for weekend motorcycle riders—were both spared. The road closure just means that it may take a little longer to get to either of the popular spots.
Los Angeles County Department of Public Works is responsible for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of bridges, serving as an agent for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).