Humboldt County Abandons $3.8 Million Centerville Road Repair as Coastal Cliffs Erode

FERNDALE AREA, Humboldt County — November 5, 2026. Humboldt County has decided that a heavily eroded stretch of Centerville Road near Centerville Beach may no longer be worth repairing in its current location. At an October 27 Board of Supervisors meeting, county leaders unanimously opted to abandon a proposed $3.8 million coastal road-elevation and armoring project and instead directed staff to explore shifting the vulnerable road inland. The decision is documented in the county’s legislative record, item 26-849, and explained by the Los Angeles Times on October 29.

Why did county officials change course?

The previous project would have elevated approximately 0.17 miles of Centerville Road by ten feet and installed protective rocks to hold back coastal erosion. The California Coastal Commission granted a permit in September with conditions, including future removal of temporary work as the coastline continued to retreat. County officials concluded that spending millions to protect this small section might provide little lasting value if another nearby stretch breaks apart first.

Cliffs dangerously close to the road

Public works officials said approximately 1,500 feet of the roadway lies within 100 feet of the bluff edge, while at least two areas lie less than 25 feet away. Large coastal landslides have already affected the nearby beach and former parking area. A 2024 cliff collapse is part of the area’s documented history, but that event must not be misrepresented as a new road collapse on November 5.

Residents challenge the plan

Some residents and landowners argue that the county should proceed with the originally permitted repairs rather than abandon a relatively immediate solution for an inland route that lacks an approved alignment, schedule and secured right-of-way. Moving the road onto other private parcels may require negotiations with landowners and additional environmental reviews. County officials argue that a sustainable access route is essential for residents, emergency vehicles and visitors.

Does the decision close Centerville Beach today?

Not automatically. The Board’s decision concerned a repair strategy and future road alignment. It does not establish a new full-road closure or an opening date. Coastal conditions can change rapidly, and visitors should verify access with Humboldt County Public Works road notices before driving to the beach. Do not drive past barricades or onto areas of sand that appear undermined by surf.

What happens next?

County staff must explore alternative alignments and possible funding changes, and consult affected property owners. The debate also reflects a larger coastal question: when roads are repeatedly damaged by ocean waves, should government keep rebuilding in place or move roads away from an unstable shoreline? The San Francisco Chronicle has also described the costs and environmental questions behind the decision.

Sources: Humboldt County Board of Supervisors official item 26-849, decision October 27, 2026; Los Angeles Times October 29; San Francisco Chronicle October 2026. This November 5 article discusses a recent policy decision, not a newly collapsed road.

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