From OC Weekly's Alex Brant-Zawadzki
They Didn't Pave Paradise: The top 10 reasons why the Foothill South Toll Road extension failed
By ALEX BRANT-ZAWADZKI
Thursday, February 14, 2008 - 3:00 pm
On Feb. 6, the California Coastal Commission voted 8-2 to deny the Transportation Corridor Agencies' (TCA) application for a Coastal Permit to build the Foothill South (Highway 241) toll-road extension. This was no surprise, as troubles with both the road and the TCA are legion. Now, this symphony of crap may yet have its coda: The TCA has appealed the decision to the Secretary of Commerce. But for now, here are 10 major reasons behind the road's downfall:
1. DOLLA DOLLA BILL, Y'ALL. The Coastal Commission calls San Mateo Creek "one of the most, if not the most, undeveloped and pristine coastal watersheds in Southern California." Rather than consider it priceless, the TCA offered a $100 million package to the California Department of Parks and Recreation to soothe the chafing-$30 million for various good works and $70 million to extend the San Onofre State Park lease from the Department of the Navy. Two problems: 1) The lease doesn't expire until 2021, and 2) there's no reason to suspect the Navy will charge the Department of Parks and Recreation any more than the $1 they charged for the first 50-year lease. So it's really a $30 million offer to destroy a state park.
See the rest of the list over at the OC Weekly
Friday, February 15, 2008
Commissioner Blank Dressing Down the TCA
In case you missed this section of the 12 hour hearing, the questions that Commissioner Steve Blank asked forced the TCA to finally tell the truth. In four parts:
Media/Photo Recap of the Coastal Commission
Here's a long list of photos and news articles from the "Surf Media".
http://bhwatershots.com/tollroad/ Very nice photos
http://eppicsurf.com/view_session.php?id=1655 Lots of very cool photos
http://surfermag.com/av/flash/vote-save-trestles/ Video of the vote (TCA goons don’t look too comfortable)
http://www.transworldsurf.com/gallery.jsp?ID=1000009482 Short slideshow
http://www.surfingthemag.com/surfing-photo-video/surfing-photo-dept/save-trestles-020608/ Article with slideshow
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwbDXLHlRms Short clip of the crowd
http://www.surfline.com/surfnews/article_bamp.cfm?id=13580 Article with pics
http://surfermag.com/features/onlineexclusives/ccmeetingdelmar-02-07-2008/ Article
http://www.transworldsurf.com/video.jsp?ID=1000002742 Fun commentary video through the day
http://www.transworldsurf.com/article.jsp?ID=1000020734 Brief article
http://bhwatershots.com/tollroad/ Very nice photos
http://eppicsurf.com/view_session.php?id=1655 Lots of very cool photos
http://surfermag.com/av/flash/vote-save-trestles/ Video of the vote (TCA goons don’t look too comfortable)
http://www.transworldsurf.com/gallery.jsp?ID=1000009482 Short slideshow
http://www.surfingthemag.com/surfing-photo-video/surfing-photo-dept/save-trestles-020608/ Article with slideshow
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwbDXLHlRms Short clip of the crowd
http://www.surfline.com/surfnews/article_bamp.cfm?id=13580 Article with pics
http://surfermag.com/features/onlineexclusives/ccmeetingdelmar-02-07-2008/ Article
http://www.transworldsurf.com/video.jsp?ID=1000002742 Fun commentary video through the day
http://www.transworldsurf.com/article.jsp?ID=1000020734 Brief article
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Thank the Commission and Come Celebrate With Us!
We set up an online petition to thank the Commissioners for protecting Trestles. It's very important that we thank decision makers when they do the right thing!
This landslide vote was a watershed moment for the environmental movement and we need to make sure the Commissioners are positively acknowledged!It's super easy. Go here: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/petition/406462345 and sign your name. Surfrider will print up all the signatures and then hand deliver them at the next CCC hearing in So Cal.
We are having a party next Saturday (Feb 23) at the OC Tavern to celebrate our win at the Coastal Commission hearing. We have three outstanding bands lined up (Bushwalla, Anna Troy and Austin Jennings). Plus, there will be a killer raffle…..and most importantly, all your friends who have helped protect Trestles and San Onofre will be there! Pass around the invite!
When: Sat Feb 23 at 8pm
Where: OC Tavern: 2369 El Camino Real,San Clemente
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Thursday, February 7, 2008
We Did It!! The Coastal Commission rejected the Toll road!
Yesterday was a great day for the coast!! The California Coastal Commission voted 8-2 to reject the planned 241 Toll Road and to protect Trestles and San Onofre State Beach. Thousands turned out for this historic meeting in Del Mar, making it clear to the commissioners that the destruction of state parks and coastal resources is unacceptable.
The record-breaking crowd was comprised of a diverse cross-section of beach users including surfers, students, families, seniors, fishermen as well as a large number of Native American tribal representatives. Also on hand was a massive contingent from the surf industry, including various manufacturers, shapers, media representatives and pro athletes.
Photo: Branimir Kvartuk
“Our supporters have logged countless volunteer hours on this campaign over the last several years,” said Moriarty. “Last night’s decision was an incredible affirmation for their efforts, and a testament to the power of grassroots activism.”
Many of you sent letters to the Commission and to the Governor asking that this road be blocked. Many of you told the Commission on YouTube to protect our state park and beach. And many of you showed up to the meeting prepared to demonstrate to the commission and the world that our parks and coasts are not to be destroyed.
Of course Surfrider Foundation didn't do this alone. We want to thank our partners with the Sierra Club, CA State Parks Foundation, Natural Resources Defense Council, Endangered Habitats League, Sea and Sage Audubon Society, Defenders of Wildlife, WildCoast and countless others.
While this decision is likely not the death knell for the toll road we would like, there will be a major uphill battle for them to overcome. We will be there at every step to trip them up and we will need your continuing support. If you haven't, please consider joining Surfrider Foundation and getting involved in your local chapter.
Thank you for protecting the coast.
The record-breaking crowd was comprised of a diverse cross-section of beach users including surfers, students, families, seniors, fishermen as well as a large number of Native American tribal representatives. Also on hand was a massive contingent from the surf industry, including various manufacturers, shapers, media representatives and pro athletes.
Photo: Branimir Kvartuk
“Our supporters have logged countless volunteer hours on this campaign over the last several years,” said Moriarty. “Last night’s decision was an incredible affirmation for their efforts, and a testament to the power of grassroots activism.”
Many of you sent letters to the Commission and to the Governor asking that this road be blocked. Many of you told the Commission on YouTube to protect our state park and beach. And many of you showed up to the meeting prepared to demonstrate to the commission and the world that our parks and coasts are not to be destroyed.
Of course Surfrider Foundation didn't do this alone. We want to thank our partners with the Sierra Club, CA State Parks Foundation, Natural Resources Defense Council, Endangered Habitats League, Sea and Sage Audubon Society, Defenders of Wildlife, WildCoast and countless others.
While this decision is likely not the death knell for the toll road we would like, there will be a major uphill battle for them to overcome. We will be there at every step to trip them up and we will need your continuing support. If you haven't, please consider joining Surfrider Foundation and getting involved in your local chapter.
Thank you for protecting the coast.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
BREAKING NEWS - CCC Says Toll Road Will Impact Surf Break!
This just in… Surfrider Foundation has received a copy of an addendum that was just released by the California Coastal commission staff and submitted to the commissioners for tomorrows meeting.
It states:
“A review of the TCA’s newly submitted Runoff Management Plan reveals that it is quite probable an increase in fine sediment will occur. Additionally, the flow velocities in San Mateo Creek are likely to be reduced. Either result will impact the continued existence of the cobble delta. Therefore, the Commission concludes that the proposed toll road will likely affect the specific mix of sediments, sands and cobbles thus resulting in an impact to the surfing resources.”
The report then goes on to say
“If adverse effects occurred, they would be unmitigable and irreversible.”
Again, this is the finding of the California Coastal Commission staff – an independent and non-partisan agency whose sole responsibility is to safeguard our beaches and coastlines, by enforcing the Califirnia Coastal Act.
Don’t let Trestles be destroyed! Please attend the Coastal Commission hearing tomorrow and let your voice be heard!
It states:
“A review of the TCA’s newly submitted Runoff Management Plan reveals that it is quite probable an increase in fine sediment will occur. Additionally, the flow velocities in San Mateo Creek are likely to be reduced. Either result will impact the continued existence of the cobble delta. Therefore, the Commission concludes that the proposed toll road will likely affect the specific mix of sediments, sands and cobbles thus resulting in an impact to the surfing resources.”
The report then goes on to say
“If adverse effects occurred, they would be unmitigable and irreversible.”
Again, this is the finding of the California Coastal Commission staff – an independent and non-partisan agency whose sole responsibility is to safeguard our beaches and coastlines, by enforcing the Califirnia Coastal Act.
Don’t let Trestles be destroyed! Please attend the Coastal Commission hearing tomorrow and let your voice be heard!
Free parking for toll road hearing!
This just in....
People attending Wednesday's hearing on the San Onofre State Beach -Orange County toll road issue won't have to pay the normal $9 parking fee at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, according to an update posted on the state Coastal Commission's Web site.
People attending Wednesday's hearing on the San Onofre State Beach -Orange County toll road issue won't have to pay the normal $9 parking fee at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, according to an update posted on the state Coastal Commission's Web site.
Go Green to the CCC hearing--carpool
If you want to hitch a ride, we are leaving from the following locations:
- Rob Field (in Ocean Beach/Point Loma--) 2525 Bacon St San Diego, CA 92107. Leaving promptly at 8:00am . This bus is full however we are setting up carpools here, so join us for a caravan!!
- Moreno Street Park and Ride (in Oceanside/Carlsbad—at I-5 and Hwy 78) 1928 Moreno St., Oceanside 92054. Leaving promptly at 8:00am. This bus is full however we are setting up carpools here so join us for a caravan!!
- Trestles Parking lot at leaving at promptly 7:00. We have limited space here, email Robin: robin.everett@sierraclub.org to get the last seats! But again, if the bus fills up, we will have a carpool organized.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Big Wednesday!
Trestles needs you to attend the Coastal Commission Hearing this Wednesday February 6, 2008!
This Coastal Commission hearing is our chance to stop the Toll Road through San Onofre State Park and Beach. With last week’s passage of federal legislation requiring the TCA to comply with state law, a “No” vote from the California Coastal Commission would be a killing blow to the Toll Road.
The hearing will start at 9am and will go all day. If you are not driving with our bus/carpool you can show up whenever you want. However, we'd like people there at 9am; and if you want to testify you need to turn in your speaker slip in the morning.
It's difficult to say how long the hearing will last. Our goal is to keep the venue filled with our supporters throughout the day. Even if you can only make it for part of the morning or the afternoon, that would be great!
If you are driving yourself, there is a $9 parking fee. However, thanks to the generosity of our friends at ASR and Dr. Know, we will be offering a few supporters (people who sign in at our booth) $5 in cash to help offset parking cost. This will be "on a first come, first served basis".
Is there a way to keep up with the day’s events?
Yes. The Surfrider Foundation will be webcasting updates using Twitter. Simply go to www.twitter.com/savetrestles for real-time updates throughout the day.
The Surfrider Foundation and projectBLUE will also issuing updates for those on site via cell phone using Pinger. Simply log on to www.betruetoblue.com/savetrestles to sign up for this service.
Don’t Forget…..Surfrider is also offering prizes, including two hand-shaped Rusty Preisendorfer surfboards, to attendees who show up in the most creative and original "Save Trestles" themed outfits.
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008. Please arrive by 9am.
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds—at Wyland. Hall. There is a large whale mural on the building 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014 - Just off the I-5 in Del Mar at Via de la Valle exit.Visit http://www.sdfair.com/index.php?fuseaction=maps.home for complete directions. Park in the Main Lot – Enter through O’Brien Gate
This Coastal Commission hearing is our chance to stop the Toll Road through San Onofre State Park and Beach. With last week’s passage of federal legislation requiring the TCA to comply with state law, a “No” vote from the California Coastal Commission would be a killing blow to the Toll Road.
The hearing will start at 9am and will go all day. If you are not driving with our bus/carpool you can show up whenever you want. However, we'd like people there at 9am; and if you want to testify you need to turn in your speaker slip in the morning.
It's difficult to say how long the hearing will last. Our goal is to keep the venue filled with our supporters throughout the day. Even if you can only make it for part of the morning or the afternoon, that would be great!
If you are driving yourself, there is a $9 parking fee. However, thanks to the generosity of our friends at ASR and Dr. Know, we will be offering a few supporters (people who sign in at our booth) $5 in cash to help offset parking cost. This will be "on a first come, first served basis".
Is there a way to keep up with the day’s events?
Yes. The Surfrider Foundation will be webcasting updates using Twitter. Simply go to www.twitter.com/savetrestles for real-time updates throughout the day.
The Surfrider Foundation and projectBLUE will also issuing updates for those on site via cell phone using Pinger. Simply log on to www.betruetoblue.com/savetrestles to sign up for this service.
Don’t Forget…..Surfrider is also offering prizes, including two hand-shaped Rusty Preisendorfer surfboards, to attendees who show up in the most creative and original "Save Trestles" themed outfits.
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008. Please arrive by 9am.
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds—at Wyland. Hall. There is a large whale mural on the building 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014 - Just off the I-5 in Del Mar at Via de la Valle exit.Visit http://www.sdfair.com/index.php?fuseaction=maps.home for complete directions. Park in the Main Lot – Enter through O’Brien Gate
CARPOOLERS - Looking for / offering rides?
Carpooling not only saves gas, in this case it will save you money (parking at the fairgrounds is $9!)
If you are looking for or offering a ride down to the Coastal Commission hearing on Wednesday, please post your information here in the comments section.
Thanks!
If you are looking for or offering a ride down to the Coastal Commission hearing on Wednesday, please post your information here in the comments section.
Thanks!
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Standing up for Trestles
Saturday morning, over 100 residents showed up in San Clemente to show their support for Trestles and San Onofre State Beach Park.
During the 3 hour demonstration, we had thousands of cars honk in support. Some people drivers even parked their cars and decided to join in!
During the 3 hour demonstration, we had thousands of cars honk in support. Some people drivers even parked their cars and decided to join in!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Attend Coastal Commission Hearing—this is the BIG ONE!!
Join hundreds of Surfrider Foundation activists and other opponents of the toll road at the CCC hearing. This is it!!!! This meeting could help decide the fate of our beloved Trestles/San Onofre State Beach.
We have limited space on our buses/carpools. If you are coming from Orange County, email Robin of the Sierra Club, robin.everett@sierraclub.org. If you are in San Diego, email Stefanie and indicate if you would like to leave from Ocean Beach or Oceanside. SSekich@surfrider.org
As you may know, it’s very challenging to know how long the meeting will take. Public hearings can take a few hours, or can go into the night. Our best advice is to be flexible and put positive energy toward the meeting ending in a timely fashion. But also be prepared to stay late.
If you are driving yourself, please note there is a $9 parking fee.
This is a once in a life time chance to be part of such a HUGE meeting. We anticipate hundreds of people will attend. We truly appreciate your flexibility and willingness to take time off of work to show your support for Trestles and San Onofre State Park.
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008. Please arrive by 9am.
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds—at Wyland. Hall. There is a large whale mural on the building 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014 - Just off the I-5 in Del Mar at Via de la Valle exit.Visit http://www.sdfair.com/index.php?fuseaction=maps.home for complete directions. Continuously check this website for updates:
Thanks again for your support! Please spread the word to your friends. We need to break a record.
The media is already talking about how big the meeting is going to be: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2008/01/25/news/sandiego/14_59_811_24_08.txt
Be part of history!!!
We have limited space on our buses/carpools. If you are coming from Orange County, email Robin of the Sierra Club, robin.everett@sierraclub.org. If you are in San Diego, email Stefanie and indicate if you would like to leave from Ocean Beach or Oceanside. SSekich@surfrider.org
As you may know, it’s very challenging to know how long the meeting will take. Public hearings can take a few hours, or can go into the night. Our best advice is to be flexible and put positive energy toward the meeting ending in a timely fashion. But also be prepared to stay late.
If you are driving yourself, please note there is a $9 parking fee.
This is a once in a life time chance to be part of such a HUGE meeting. We anticipate hundreds of people will attend. We truly appreciate your flexibility and willingness to take time off of work to show your support for Trestles and San Onofre State Park.
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008. Please arrive by 9am.
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds—at Wyland. Hall. There is a large whale mural on the building 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014 - Just off the I-5 in Del Mar at Via de la Valle exit.Visit http://www.sdfair.com/index.php?fuseaction=maps.home for complete directions. Continuously check this website for updates:
Thanks again for your support! Please spread the word to your friends. We need to break a record.
The media is already talking about how big the meeting is going to be: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2008/01/25/news/sandiego/14_59_811_24_08.txt
Be part of history!!!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Take it to the Street to Save Trestles!
Join Surfrider and Sierra Club activists this Saturday (February 2) at 11am for a demonstration to Save Trestles and San Onofre! The last few days and hours before the Coastal Commission hearing are crucial-- and we must be highly visible! .
We’ll be waiving signs, holding surf boards and constructing miniature tents to demonstrate how the toll road will ruin the camping and surfing experience at San Onofre State Beach. And we need you there!
Meet us at Staple’s parking lot in San Clemente at 11am on Saturday Feb 2.
93 Via Pico PlazaSan Clemente, CA 92672
Coming from the South:
Take the AVE PICO exit, EXIT 76.
Turn LEFT onto E AVENIDA PICO.
Turn LEFT onto VIA PICO PLZ
Coming from the North:
Take the AVE PICO exit, EXIT 76.
Turn RIGHT onto E AVENIDA PICO.
Turn LEFT onto VIA PICO PLZ
We’ll be waiving signs, holding surf boards and constructing miniature tents to demonstrate how the toll road will ruin the camping and surfing experience at San Onofre State Beach. And we need you there!
Meet us at Staple’s parking lot in San Clemente at 11am on Saturday Feb 2.
93 Via Pico PlazaSan Clemente, CA 92672
Coming from the South:
Take the AVE PICO exit, EXIT 76.
Turn LEFT onto E AVENIDA PICO.
Turn LEFT onto VIA PICO PLZ
Coming from the North:
Take the AVE PICO exit, EXIT 76.
Turn RIGHT onto E AVENIDA PICO.
Turn LEFT onto VIA PICO PLZ
Friday, January 25, 2008
Attend California Coastal Commission--at Del Mar Fairgrounds
The time to Save Trestles is now!!
On Wednesday, February 6, the California Coastal Commission (CCC) will hear the application for the Foothill-South toll road that will run through San Onofre State Park.
This project threatens precious coastal open space, water quality and the surf break at Trestles, and it would set a dangerous precedent for YOUR State Park system.
Join hundreds (if not thousands) of Surfrider Foundation activists and other opponents of the toll road for a rally at the CCC hearing. Come help us send a clear message that our State Parks and open spaces deserve saving!
This is literally THE most important hearing in regards to protecting Trestles and San Onofre State Park. We need an enormous crowd to attend. Please help spread the word to all your family and friends in Southern California.
The Surfrider Foundation and partners are renting buses and organizing carpools in San Clemente and San Diego. We are also providing food, tee shirts, and posters/sign for all supporters. Surfrider has it all organized—you just need to show up.
If you have questions about the hearing, or are interested in organized transportation, email Stefanie Sekich at: SSekich@surfrider.org
What: Crucial Vote to Save Trestles at California Coastal Commission
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008. Please arrive by 9am.
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds—at Wyland Hall 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014 - Just off the I-5 in Del Mar at Via de la Valle exit.Visit the Fairgrounds website for complete directions. Please consider carpooling.
On Wednesday, February 6, the California Coastal Commission (CCC) will hear the application for the Foothill-South toll road that will run through San Onofre State Park.
This project threatens precious coastal open space, water quality and the surf break at Trestles, and it would set a dangerous precedent for YOUR State Park system.
Join hundreds (if not thousands) of Surfrider Foundation activists and other opponents of the toll road for a rally at the CCC hearing. Come help us send a clear message that our State Parks and open spaces deserve saving!
This is literally THE most important hearing in regards to protecting Trestles and San Onofre State Park. We need an enormous crowd to attend. Please help spread the word to all your family and friends in Southern California.
The Surfrider Foundation and partners are renting buses and organizing carpools in San Clemente and San Diego. We are also providing food, tee shirts, and posters/sign for all supporters. Surfrider has it all organized—you just need to show up.
If you have questions about the hearing, or are interested in organized transportation, email Stefanie Sekich at: SSekich@surfrider.org
What: Crucial Vote to Save Trestles at California Coastal Commission
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008. Please arrive by 9am.
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds—at Wyland Hall 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014 - Just off the I-5 in Del Mar at Via de la Valle exit.Visit the Fairgrounds website for complete directions. Please consider carpooling.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Update: Coastal Commission Hearing moved to Del Mar Fairgrounds
Due to the expected large crowd the Coastal Commission just announced they are moving the hearing to the Del Mar Fairgrounds, still on February 6th. Please arrive by 9am. Watch for more details soon.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Letter to the Governor: Written By a Beloved Activist
This was sent to Arnold via his website:
Governor Schwarzenegger,
I want the "Save San Onofre State Beach" surfboard returned to me.
I gave you that board as a gift, but due to your recent actions and words that have the intent to destroy most of that state park, you do not deserve to have it. That board was signed by hundreds of campers and surfers that you have now betrayed.
I will be at the state capitol this Tuesday morning, and can pick it up at that time. Look for me at one of the tents on the capitol lawn, or let me know where I can pick it up.
Ed Schlegel
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Go here to see what Ed is referring to:
http://www.surfrider.org/makingwaves/makingwaves21-4/10-11.pdf
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tell the Governor we want Ed’s surf board and our State Parks back!
Send this quick blurb to him:
Governor Schwarzenegger,
I am writing in response to your letter to the California Coastal Commission, urging them to support the Toll Road through the San Onofre State Park and Beach. I strongly oppose your decision, and the toll road that will destroy California’s fifth most visited state park.
Voters established the Coastal Commission to be independent and nonpolitical, and decide on the future of our coast based on the facts and the law. San Onofre State Beach gets over two million visitors to the beach portion each year, and over one hundred and sixty thousand visitors to the park’s two campgrounds.
There are many reasons for the popularity of this beach and park. Since it was recognized as a State Beach in 1971, San Onofre has attracted surfers with its outstanding surf, quiet, accessible inland campground (in close proximity to the beach), and an environment that offers Southern California families the opportunity to experience the coast and nature in the middle of an otherwise overwhelmingly urban area.
Sincerely,
Email it here: http://gov.ca.gov/interact Be sure you use the drop down menu and pick “San Onofre Toll Road” and check “Con”; then fill in your email with the letter template.
STAY TUNED FOR COVERAGE OF SURFRIDER’S TRIP TO THE CAPITOL!!
Governor Schwarzenegger,
I want the "Save San Onofre State Beach" surfboard returned to me.
I gave you that board as a gift, but due to your recent actions and words that have the intent to destroy most of that state park, you do not deserve to have it. That board was signed by hundreds of campers and surfers that you have now betrayed.
I will be at the state capitol this Tuesday morning, and can pick it up at that time. Look for me at one of the tents on the capitol lawn, or let me know where I can pick it up.
Ed Schlegel
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Go here to see what Ed is referring to:
http://www.surfrider.org/makingwaves/makingwaves21-4/10-11.pdf
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tell the Governor we want Ed’s surf board and our State Parks back!
Send this quick blurb to him:
Governor Schwarzenegger,
I am writing in response to your letter to the California Coastal Commission, urging them to support the Toll Road through the San Onofre State Park and Beach. I strongly oppose your decision, and the toll road that will destroy California’s fifth most visited state park.
Voters established the Coastal Commission to be independent and nonpolitical, and decide on the future of our coast based on the facts and the law. San Onofre State Beach gets over two million visitors to the beach portion each year, and over one hundred and sixty thousand visitors to the park’s two campgrounds.
There are many reasons for the popularity of this beach and park. Since it was recognized as a State Beach in 1971, San Onofre has attracted surfers with its outstanding surf, quiet, accessible inland campground (in close proximity to the beach), and an environment that offers Southern California families the opportunity to experience the coast and nature in the middle of an otherwise overwhelmingly urban area.
Sincerely,
Email it here: http://gov.ca.gov/interact Be sure you use the drop down menu and pick “San Onofre Toll Road” and check “Con”; then fill in your email with the letter template.
STAY TUNED FOR COVERAGE OF SURFRIDER’S TRIP TO THE CAPITOL!!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
GOVERNOR SCHWARZENEGGER THROWS TRESTLES AND SAN ONOFRE UNDER THE BUS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Stefanie Sekich
Surfrider Foundation
San Clemente, CA 92674-6010
Phone 1:800-743-SURF / Fax (949) 492-8142
Email: ssekich@surfrider.org
GOVERNOR SCHWARZENEGGER THROWS TRESTLES AND SAN ONOFRE UNDER THE BUS
Governor Announces Support For Environmentally Harmful Road
San Clemente, CA (January 16, 2008) – Yesterday, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a letter in support of the proposed 241 toll road extension in South Orange County. The letter was issued just two weeks before a critical vote by the California Coastal Commission to determine if the proposed extension violates the California Coastal Act. A staff report prepared by the CCC concludes that it does.
“We are absolutely taken aback by this,” said Surfrider Foundation CEO Jim Moriarty. “For the Governor to take this unprecedented step of interfering with the workings of an independent and non-political commission, an entity which was established by California voters and whose sole responsibility is to decide the future of California’s coasts and beaches based on law and fact, is entirely inappropriate.”
The disappointing announcement comes just six days after the California Governor unveiled his plans to close forty-eight California State Parks, allow for the early release of prisoners from state correctional facilities, and raise Department of Motor Vehicle fees.
“We had hoped that Governor Schwarzenegger was insincere in his threat to close state parks and beaches,” says Moriarty. “It now appears that he is absolutely intent on sacrificing our state park system and natural resources for his political objectives.”
The California State Parks Department has maintained that they may be forced to abandon nearly sixty percent of San Onofre State Beach Park, including the popular San Mateo Creek Campground, should the proposed extension to the 241 toll road be completed,
Governor Schwarzenegger’s failure to support San Onofre State Beach Park by endorsing the 241 toll road extension is in direct contrast to the efforts of his Republican predecessors, President Richard M. Nixon and then-Governor Ronald Reagan, both of whom worked to establish San Onofre State Beach as a part of their legacy; hoping that it would exist as a resource to be used and enjoyed by future generations.
The Surfrider Foundation activists and other opponents to the planned toll road will be gathering in Oceanside, California on February 6th for a planned rally outside the California Coastal Commission hearing. All members of the public are invited to attend. Please go to http://www.savetrestles.org/ for more information.
About the Surfrider Foundation
The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 50,000 members and 80 chapters worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, go to http://www.surfrider.org/.
###
CONTACT:
Stefanie Sekich
Surfrider Foundation
San Clemente, CA 92674-6010
Phone 1:800-743-SURF / Fax (949) 492-8142
Email: ssekich@surfrider.org
GOVERNOR SCHWARZENEGGER THROWS TRESTLES AND SAN ONOFRE UNDER THE BUS
Governor Announces Support For Environmentally Harmful Road
San Clemente, CA (January 16, 2008) – Yesterday, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a letter in support of the proposed 241 toll road extension in South Orange County. The letter was issued just two weeks before a critical vote by the California Coastal Commission to determine if the proposed extension violates the California Coastal Act. A staff report prepared by the CCC concludes that it does.
“We are absolutely taken aback by this,” said Surfrider Foundation CEO Jim Moriarty. “For the Governor to take this unprecedented step of interfering with the workings of an independent and non-political commission, an entity which was established by California voters and whose sole responsibility is to decide the future of California’s coasts and beaches based on law and fact, is entirely inappropriate.”
The disappointing announcement comes just six days after the California Governor unveiled his plans to close forty-eight California State Parks, allow for the early release of prisoners from state correctional facilities, and raise Department of Motor Vehicle fees.
“We had hoped that Governor Schwarzenegger was insincere in his threat to close state parks and beaches,” says Moriarty. “It now appears that he is absolutely intent on sacrificing our state park system and natural resources for his political objectives.”
The California State Parks Department has maintained that they may be forced to abandon nearly sixty percent of San Onofre State Beach Park, including the popular San Mateo Creek Campground, should the proposed extension to the 241 toll road be completed,
Governor Schwarzenegger’s failure to support San Onofre State Beach Park by endorsing the 241 toll road extension is in direct contrast to the efforts of his Republican predecessors, President Richard M. Nixon and then-Governor Ronald Reagan, both of whom worked to establish San Onofre State Beach as a part of their legacy; hoping that it would exist as a resource to be used and enjoyed by future generations.
The Surfrider Foundation activists and other opponents to the planned toll road will be gathering in Oceanside, California on February 6th for a planned rally outside the California Coastal Commission hearing. All members of the public are invited to attend. Please go to http://www.savetrestles.org/ for more information.
About the Surfrider Foundation
The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 50,000 members and 80 chapters worldwide. For more information on the Surfrider Foundation, go to http://www.surfrider.org/.
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