A portion of the Del Mar bluffs collapsed on February 28 just south of 4th Street in Del Mar. Photo: City of Del Mar

NORTH COUNTY–SANDAG, the North County Transit District, and the City of Del Mar are urging the public to exercise caution when walking along the beach in Del Mar and north Torrey Pines State Beach and to avoid walking along the railroad tracks at the top of the bluffs.

On February 28, the Del Mar Bluffs suffered a failure just south of 4th Street in Del Mar and geotechnical experts have determined that train service can be operated safely at a reduced speed. However, another bluff failure is possible due to cracks observed at the top of the bluffs and pose a significant risk to beachgoers. As such, the public is urged not to sit, stand, or walk within 50 feet of the Del Mar Bluffs or the beach below. Being caught in a bluff collapse can cause serious injury or death.

Law enforcement will be present along the top of the bluffs near 4th Street to educate the public about the inherent risks of walking along the railroad tracks and bluffs. Signage is posted to remind the public as well.

SANDAG, the transit district, and its partner agencies are working to determine what interim repairs are needed and expect to begin work in the coming weeks.