Big Sur Implements Parking Moratorium at Bixby Bridge Amid Overtourism Concerns
Big Sur, California, a region known for its natural beauty and isolation, is grappling with the consequences of overtourism, leading to significant challenges for its residents and infrastructure. Following a summer marked by wildfires, road disruptions, overcrowding, and two fatal traffic incidents, the community is questioning its capacity to safely accommodate the increasing number of visitors. Kate Daniels, representing Big Sur on the Monterey County Council, successfully advocated for a parking moratorium at Bixby Bridge, which commenced last month, to alleviate congestion and safety hazards. The situation was particularly strained during Monterey Car Week in August, an event that attracted approximately 100,000 visitors to the wider Monterey area. Residents reported that the influx of tourists, especially those focused on photographing themselves at popular viewpoints like Bixby Bridge, led to traffic jams, illegal parking, littering, and environmental damage, including trampling vegetation and unaut... 
