As you may know, the TCA appealed the California Coastal Commission decision to reject the toll road through San Onofre State Park. We have until May 28th to contact the Secretary of Commerce and ask him to deny the TCA appeal and uphold the California Coastal Commission's decision.
On April 18, we hand delivered over 3,500 letters to the Secretary of Commerce asking him to grant a public hearing. At this point, we do not know if the Secretary will grant a public hearing (we'll let you know as soon as we know), but in the meantime take a few seconds to complete this action alert.
We are asking the Secretary to review the TCA appeal based on facts consistent with applicable state laws, and to uphold California's right and responsibly to protect coastal resources for those who use (and care for) San Onofre State Beach.
Complete the action alert here: http://actionnetwork.org/campaign/tollroadappeal0408
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Ocean Minded to the Rescue!
Ocean Minded is the kind of company that gets its hands dirty to keep the ocean clean.
To kick off Earth Day, Ocean Minded headed down to Trestles for a beach cleanup. Then, a few days later, the company presented a hefty check to the Save Trestles campaign. Founder, Gary Ward, has been on the forefront of the Trestles fight and we owe him, and his eco-friendly company, an enormous THANK YOU! Support those who support us! And be sure to join the next Ocean Minded beach cleanup...they are out there regularly.
To kick off Earth Day, Ocean Minded headed down to Trestles for a beach cleanup. Then, a few days later, the company presented a hefty check to the Save Trestles campaign. Founder, Gary Ward, has been on the forefront of the Trestles fight and we owe him, and his eco-friendly company, an enormous THANK YOU! Support those who support us! And be sure to join the next Ocean Minded beach cleanup...they are out there regularly.
Tell D.C. to Deny the Toll Road Appeal
The Transportation Corridor Agency is trying to revive its plan to build the 241 Foothill-South Toll Road through San Onofre State Beach. They have asked the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to override the California Coastal Commission's denial of the road.
Remember, on February 6, 2008 the California Coastal Commission voted to deny the 241 Foothill South Toll Road through San Onofre State Beach. Following thousands of pages of written comments and a 14 hour hearing attended by thousands, the Commission listened to reason and to the law by rejecting the toll road application.
Unfortunately the agency planning this Toll Road has appealed the Coastal Commission’s decision to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. The Secretary is accepting comments from the public on this appeal until May 28th. The people in D.C. need to hear from Californians and people from all over the world who care about San Onofre and Trestles!
Your voice is needed! Don't let the TCA's lobbyists be the only influence on this important decision!
Simply click here to send a letter to the Secretary asking that he DENY the Toll Road appeal. Please feel free to edit the letter template we have provided as personal comments are the most effective.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Ocean Minded...being ocean minded!
This company gets dirty to keep the beach clean. Please join us for a kick off to earth day at a beach cleanup!!
When: Friday, April 18. 3-5pm
Where: Meet at the Trestles Parking lot.
Visit to found out how AWESOME this company is...and why you should support it! http://www.oceanminded.com/company.html
When: Friday, April 18. 3-5pm
Where: Meet at the Trestles Parking lot.
Visit to found out how AWESOME this company is...and why you should support it! http://www.oceanminded.com/company.html
Friday, April 11, 2008
As the Transponder Beeps....
Daytime producers take note - you couldn’t script a bigger soap opera than the hullabaloo that surrounds the TCA’s campaign to extend the 241 toll road…
When last we peeked in on our friends at the TCA, they were commiserating over their defeat at the hands of the California Coastal Commission and already plotting their motion to appeal the ruling with the United States Secretary of Commerce.
Still fuming after not being heard at the Coastal Commission hearing, San Clemente Councilman and TCA Board member Jim Dahl flew all the way out to Washington D.C. to lobby California Senator Diane Feinstein.** Alas, he arrived to find that Senator Feinstein wasn’t actually in. Oops!
**(Senator Feinstein later issued a statement reminding the public that the newly passed Defense Authorization Bill included an amendment by Rep. Susan Davis that mandates the TCA comply with all state environmental law, before reiterating the Coastal Commission’s 8-2 vote to deny consistency for the project)
Then in March, California Governor and recently professed toll road supporter Arnold Schwarzenegger surprised everyone by relieving fellow Hollywood star Clint Eastwood and his own brother-in-law Bobby Shiver from their positions on the California State Parks Commission. Coincidentally both Clint and Bobby had publicly come out in opposition to the toll road due to its impact on San Onofre State Park.
“Looks like someone has a bee in their bonnet,” said Eastwood.
The Governor, whose state is battling economic meltdown, was quick to retort.
"I know the environmentalists are sensitive about it, and they say it is going through a park, but the road has to go through somewhere," Schwarzenegger said, before hopping on his chartered plane he flies daily between Los Angeles and Sacramento (so much for carbon emissions). "We can't stop progress."
Meanwhile, a month of licking his wounds had done little to ease the bitterness of TCA CEO Tom Margaro. Upon hearing that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration were considering holding a public hearing as part of the Secretary of Commerce appeal, the TCA had their attorneys pen a letter complaining that February’s Coastal Commission hearing site was 50 miles away from the project location, and that the hearing itself was largely a “circus like atmosphere.”
In his response letter, California Coastal Commission Chair Patrick Kruer was quick to point out that the TCA had, in fact, helped choose the hearing site, and the TCA’s own supporters (several busloads of laborers paid to attend the hearing) had to be reminded to be respectful during the meeting.
Chairman Kruer also pointed out that the location of the venue was not 50 miles, but rather 37 miles away. While this may seem trivial, consider that the TCA over-exaggerated the mileage by 26%. …Just like they exaggerated the amount of homes and business that could be impacted from widening I-5 by 95%.
Of course the all this exaggeration and misrepresentation was bound to catch up with them …which it did big time yesterday.
In a letter sent to the Secretary of Commerce and the heads of NOAA, Colonel Thomas Magness from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, outlined several instances of the TCA exaggerating or otherwise misrepresenting information in their recent appeal.
Colonel Thomas writes,
“With respect to the Appellant’s (TCA) principal brief filed with your office on February 15, 2008, I noted additional statements that are factually incorrect and in my view mischaracterize our agency’s involvement in the state environmental review process.”
Oy vey!
In response to the TCA’s claim that the Army Corps of Engineers unanimously supports the planned route for the toll road, Colonel Thomas goes on to write,
“These assertions are false... Furthermore, my agency has not concurred with TCA that there are no other reasonable of feasible alternatives other than the applicant's preferred alternative.”
Ouch!
Tune-in next month to see what kind of drama unfolds when that happens!
Until then…
Your pals at the Surfrider Foundation
When last we peeked in on our friends at the TCA, they were commiserating over their defeat at the hands of the California Coastal Commission and already plotting their motion to appeal the ruling with the United States Secretary of Commerce.
Still fuming after not being heard at the Coastal Commission hearing, San Clemente Councilman and TCA Board member Jim Dahl flew all the way out to Washington D.C. to lobby California Senator Diane Feinstein.** Alas, he arrived to find that Senator Feinstein wasn’t actually in. Oops!
**(Senator Feinstein later issued a statement reminding the public that the newly passed Defense Authorization Bill included an amendment by Rep. Susan Davis that mandates the TCA comply with all state environmental law, before reiterating the Coastal Commission’s 8-2 vote to deny consistency for the project)
Then in March, California Governor and recently professed toll road supporter Arnold Schwarzenegger surprised everyone by relieving fellow Hollywood star Clint Eastwood and his own brother-in-law Bobby Shiver from their positions on the California State Parks Commission. Coincidentally both Clint and Bobby had publicly come out in opposition to the toll road due to its impact on San Onofre State Park.
“Looks like someone has a bee in their bonnet,” said Eastwood.
The Governor, whose state is battling economic meltdown, was quick to retort.
"I know the environmentalists are sensitive about it, and they say it is going through a park, but the road has to go through somewhere," Schwarzenegger said, before hopping on his chartered plane he flies daily between Los Angeles and Sacramento (so much for carbon emissions). "We can't stop progress."
Meanwhile, a month of licking his wounds had done little to ease the bitterness of TCA CEO Tom Margaro. Upon hearing that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration were considering holding a public hearing as part of the Secretary of Commerce appeal, the TCA had their attorneys pen a letter complaining that February’s Coastal Commission hearing site was 50 miles away from the project location, and that the hearing itself was largely a “circus like atmosphere.”
In his response letter, California Coastal Commission Chair Patrick Kruer was quick to point out that the TCA had, in fact, helped choose the hearing site, and the TCA’s own supporters (several busloads of laborers paid to attend the hearing) had to be reminded to be respectful during the meeting.
Chairman Kruer also pointed out that the location of the venue was not 50 miles, but rather 37 miles away. While this may seem trivial, consider that the TCA over-exaggerated the mileage by 26%. …Just like they exaggerated the amount of homes and business that could be impacted from widening I-5 by 95%.
Of course the all this exaggeration and misrepresentation was bound to catch up with them …which it did big time yesterday.
In a letter sent to the Secretary of Commerce and the heads of NOAA, Colonel Thomas Magness from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, outlined several instances of the TCA exaggerating or otherwise misrepresenting information in their recent appeal.
Colonel Thomas writes,
“With respect to the Appellant’s (TCA) principal brief filed with your office on February 15, 2008, I noted additional statements that are factually incorrect and in my view mischaracterize our agency’s involvement in the state environmental review process.”
Oy vey!
In response to the TCA’s claim that the Army Corps of Engineers unanimously supports the planned route for the toll road, Colonel Thomas goes on to write,
“These assertions are false... Furthermore, my agency has not concurred with TCA that there are no other reasonable of feasible alternatives other than the applicant's preferred alternative.”
Ouch!
Tune-in next month to see what kind of drama unfolds when that happens!
Until then…
Your pals at the Surfrider Foundation
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Schwarzenegger Fragged by Lieutenant
Want to see how several loose ends tie together? Read this great blog post on the OC Weekly site, by famed writer Alex Brant-Zawadzki.....
http://blogs.ocweekly.com/navelgazing/241-toll-road/schwarzenegger-fragged-by-lieu/
http://blogs.ocweekly.com/navelgazing/241-toll-road/schwarzenegger-fragged-by-lieu/
Monday, April 7, 2008
California leaders demand that feds let “no” vote on San Onofre Toll Road stand
SACRAMENTO, CA – Lt. Governor and State Lands Commission member John Garamendi, Senate President pro Tem Don Perata, Senate Resources Committee Chairman Darrell Steinberg and Senator Christine Kehoe today called on the Bush Administration to recognize California’s right to protect the state’s precious coastline, saying in a letter to U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez that the federal government must let stand the California Coastal Commission’s rejection of a proposed toll road through the heart of the park at San Onofre State Beach.
In the letter, the four state leaders said that the Administration’s reversal of the Coastal Commission’s decision would amount to an unprecedented attack on California’s right to protect its coastline. More importantly, they added, a federal overturn of California’s lawful decision would set a dangerous precedent that would undermine the state’s ability to protect its natural resources for future generations.
“After careful deliberation and an open and transparent public review process, the Coastal Commission did precisely the job it was established to do: to fully and properly carry out the intent of both the California Coastal Act and the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act. A reversal of this decision by the Bush Administration should be seen as no less than an attack on California’s environmental values,” said Lt. Governor John Garamendi
“The California Costal Commission rejected the proposal to put a toll road through the state park at San Onofre State Beach,” said Senate President pro Tem Don Perata (D-Oakland). “The federal government should respect that decision, made with the input of thousands of Californians who have an inherent interest in preserving their coast.” “The California Coastal Commission engaged in a deliberative process and ultimately voted against a toll road in California State Park at San Onofre State Beach,” Senator Steinberg(D-Sacramento) said. “The Bush Administration should respect the Commission’s vote and leave decisions about California’s beaches and state parks to Californians.”
"The California Coastal Commission acted properly when they rejected the proposed toll road because they understood that it would violate our Coastal Act, and fails to conform to our coastal management plan," stated Senator Kehoe (D-San Diego). "The Bush Administration, which professes to support state rights, should reject the appeal and sustain California's legal right and responsibility to protect our coastal resources."
On February 6, 2008, after a 14-hour public hearing attended by more than 3,500 people, the California Coastal Commission voted 8-2 to reject the proposed Foothill-South Toll Road. The project would site a multi-lane highway through the heart of the California State Park at San Onofre State Beach. The Commission’s rejection of the proposed toll highway followed a lengthy review and a series of findings which outlined serious concerns over environmental destruction from the project, as well as potential damage to Native American cultural resources and diminished recreation opportunities for California families.
The Federal Coastal Zone Management Act requires development projects that require federal approval to first obtain a “consistency certification” from the State Coastal Commission. The California Coastal Commission refused to issue such a certification, finding instead that the project was inconsistent with the state’s imperative to protect its coastline. The project proponents appealed the State’s determination to the Secretary of Commerce in February following the Coastal Commission’s rejection of their case.
The California elected leaders urged the Commerce Secretary to reject the appeal outright. Should the appeal be considered, they said, the Administration must allow the people of Southern California to have their voices heard in the process with an open and accessible public hearing on the matter. The state leaders are also requesting that proponents be prohibited from meeting or negotiating with federal agencies while the appeal is pending. A copy of the letter can be downloaded at: http://www.ltg.ca.gov/images/press/040708%20tca%20toll%20road.pdf
In the letter, the four state leaders said that the Administration’s reversal of the Coastal Commission’s decision would amount to an unprecedented attack on California’s right to protect its coastline. More importantly, they added, a federal overturn of California’s lawful decision would set a dangerous precedent that would undermine the state’s ability to protect its natural resources for future generations.
“After careful deliberation and an open and transparent public review process, the Coastal Commission did precisely the job it was established to do: to fully and properly carry out the intent of both the California Coastal Act and the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act. A reversal of this decision by the Bush Administration should be seen as no less than an attack on California’s environmental values,” said Lt. Governor John Garamendi
“The California Costal Commission rejected the proposal to put a toll road through the state park at San Onofre State Beach,” said Senate President pro Tem Don Perata (D-Oakland). “The federal government should respect that decision, made with the input of thousands of Californians who have an inherent interest in preserving their coast.” “The California Coastal Commission engaged in a deliberative process and ultimately voted against a toll road in California State Park at San Onofre State Beach,” Senator Steinberg(D-Sacramento) said. “The Bush Administration should respect the Commission’s vote and leave decisions about California’s beaches and state parks to Californians.”
"The California Coastal Commission acted properly when they rejected the proposed toll road because they understood that it would violate our Coastal Act, and fails to conform to our coastal management plan," stated Senator Kehoe (D-San Diego). "The Bush Administration, which professes to support state rights, should reject the appeal and sustain California's legal right and responsibility to protect our coastal resources."
On February 6, 2008, after a 14-hour public hearing attended by more than 3,500 people, the California Coastal Commission voted 8-2 to reject the proposed Foothill-South Toll Road. The project would site a multi-lane highway through the heart of the California State Park at San Onofre State Beach. The Commission’s rejection of the proposed toll highway followed a lengthy review and a series of findings which outlined serious concerns over environmental destruction from the project, as well as potential damage to Native American cultural resources and diminished recreation opportunities for California families.
The Federal Coastal Zone Management Act requires development projects that require federal approval to first obtain a “consistency certification” from the State Coastal Commission. The California Coastal Commission refused to issue such a certification, finding instead that the project was inconsistent with the state’s imperative to protect its coastline. The project proponents appealed the State’s determination to the Secretary of Commerce in February following the Coastal Commission’s rejection of their case.
The California elected leaders urged the Commerce Secretary to reject the appeal outright. Should the appeal be considered, they said, the Administration must allow the people of Southern California to have their voices heard in the process with an open and accessible public hearing on the matter. The state leaders are also requesting that proponents be prohibited from meeting or negotiating with federal agencies while the appeal is pending. A copy of the letter can be downloaded at: http://www.ltg.ca.gov/images/press/040708%20tca%20toll%20road.pdf
TCA IS SHYING AWAY FROM ANOTHER PUBLIC HEARING
Yep! The TCA has written a letter to Department of Commerce saying no public hearing is necessary...check out this recent article....
By David Reyes, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer April 5, 2008
The agency pushing for a toll road through San Onofre State Beach apparently didn't like being jeered by opponents during the public hearing at which the state Coastal Commission rejected its project....... In fact, there's no reason to hold a public hearing on the appeal for the Foothill South, the Transportation Corridor Agencies argued in a letter to the department late last month.
See full story here:
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-tollroad5apr05,1,6207634.story
By David Reyes, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer April 5, 2008
The agency pushing for a toll road through San Onofre State Beach apparently didn't like being jeered by opponents during the public hearing at which the state Coastal Commission rejected its project....... In fact, there's no reason to hold a public hearing on the appeal for the Foothill South, the Transportation Corridor Agencies argued in a letter to the department late last month.
See full story here:
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-tollroad5apr05,1,6207634.story
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Action Alert--Please Sign and Pass Around.
The fight to Save Trestles continues. Last month, the California Coastal Commission (CCC) voted to deny an application for the proposed Foothill-South toll road.
The CCC overwhelmingly concluded the toll road is not compliant with several provisions of California coastal law. Thousands of Save Trestles supporters attended the meeting—making it a record setting hearing, and a watershed moment for the environmental movement.
However, the Transportation Corridor Agency (TCA) has filed an appeal with the Secretary of Commerce requesting the CCC decision be overruled.
The appeal process includes an opportunity for the public to request a local hearing in order for the Secretary to hear concerns of California residents. Please help us contact the Secretary of Commerce and ask him to grant a public hearing.
We were able to sway the Coastal Commission when thousands of people attended the hearing—and now we need to show the Federal government how powerful our voices are together.
Please tell the folks in Washington DC to come out to California and hear why so many people are opposed to the toll road. We need your help ensuring the Secretary of Commerce grants a public hearing so all of your concerns will be heard.
Please sign the alert here: http://actionnetwork.org/campaign/tollappealhearing
The CCC overwhelmingly concluded the toll road is not compliant with several provisions of California coastal law. Thousands of Save Trestles supporters attended the meeting—making it a record setting hearing, and a watershed moment for the environmental movement.
However, the Transportation Corridor Agency (TCA) has filed an appeal with the Secretary of Commerce requesting the CCC decision be overruled.
The appeal process includes an opportunity for the public to request a local hearing in order for the Secretary to hear concerns of California residents. Please help us contact the Secretary of Commerce and ask him to grant a public hearing.
We were able to sway the Coastal Commission when thousands of people attended the hearing—and now we need to show the Federal government how powerful our voices are together.
Please tell the folks in Washington DC to come out to California and hear why so many people are opposed to the toll road. We need your help ensuring the Secretary of Commerce grants a public hearing so all of your concerns will be heard.
Please sign the alert here: http://actionnetwork.org/campaign/tollappealhearing
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Dirty Harry vs. The Terminator
More press today in the LA Times. I guess if anyone has the courage to fire Clint Eastwood it would be Arnold. He's been wrong on so many environmental decisions lately. You have to wonder who is giving him guidance these days?
------
Eastwood ..."seemed perplexed because his opposition to the road predated by more than two years the governor's endorsement of it in January. He said that he told Schwarzenegger long ago of his reservations and that the governor urged him to follow his conscience."
"You're not going to get people who are interested in state parks who want to build freeways through state parks," Eastwood said. "So I don't know what the big surprise was there."
---
Here's what Eastwood has to say about San Onofre and the toll road
And Bobby Shriver led off the opposition to the toll road at last month's Coastal Commission Hearing. These guys are heroes for the coast!!
------
Eastwood ..."seemed perplexed because his opposition to the road predated by more than two years the governor's endorsement of it in January. He said that he told Schwarzenegger long ago of his reservations and that the governor urged him to follow his conscience."
"You're not going to get people who are interested in state parks who want to build freeways through state parks," Eastwood said. "So I don't know what the big surprise was there."
---
Here's what Eastwood has to say about San Onofre and the toll road
And Bobby Shriver led off the opposition to the toll road at last month's Coastal Commission Hearing. These guys are heroes for the coast!!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Benefit Show to Save Trestles.
Join Save Trestles Supporters this weekend at Hogue Barmichaels! Thanks to Dr Know and Jason Roberts for being the brains behind the benefit!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Political Payback?
That's right! Arnold fires his brother-in-law and Dirty Harry, for opposing the toll road. You have to wonder who is paying off Arnold. Is Arnold trying to kill our state parks??? He proposes closing 48 parks, shoving a rich-man's toll road through San Onofre, ruining Anzo Borrego with the Sun Link powerlines, and now firing Shriver and Eastwood from the Parks Commission. Arnold is wrong on so many issues that matter to Californians, you have to wonder just who he actually represents...
Governor wants Clint Eastwood, Shriver's brother replaced with 'fresh legs'
By Terry Rodgers
UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
Take your pick.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger either felt the need for “fresh legs” on the state Park & Recreation Commission or was in the mood for political payback.
Whatever his true sentiments, his staff notified his brother-in-law Bobby Shriver and actor Clint Eastwood on Monday that they were no longer needed as state park commissioners.
Shriver, 53, a Democrat and brother of First Lady Maria Shriver, and Eastwood, 77, a Republican and former mayor of Carmel, were first appointed to the advisory commission by Gov. Gray Davis in 2001.
Three years later, Schwarzenegger reappointed both of them to four-year terms.
On Tuesday, Shriver said he and Eastwood had submitted requests to serve another four-year term. Eastwood couldn't be reached for comment.
As commissioners, the two men voted to oppose a 16-mile extension of state Route 241 that would connect southern Orange County to Interstate 5 at San Onofre. The toll road would cut across a nature reserve in Orange County and the San Onofre State Beach, a site considered sacred by American Indians and cherished by surfers and campers.
Shriver and Eastwood also supported a lawsuit against the road project that was filed on behalf of the park commission by the state attorney general.
Schwarzenegger publicly endorsed the toll road extension, saying it would reduce traffic congestion. The governor also said the project would allow the financially beleaguered state park department to take advantage of a $100 million grant offered by the Transportation Corridor Agencies in exchange for approval of the road.
The toll road proposal hit a major roadblock in February, when the state Coastal Commission voted 8-2 against it during a hearing at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The Transportation Corridor Agencies has appealed that decision to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce.
Shriver, a city councilman for Santa Monica, felt so strongly about the toll road that he testified against it at the Coastal Commission meeting.
“Whatever the reason was I wasn't reappointed, I'm glad I voted the way I did,” Shriver said Tuesday. “I still think it's a bad idea to put a freeway through a park.”
State park commissioner Caryl Hart of Sebastopol, who last year was appointed to a third term on the panel, said she has little doubt that Schwarzenegger was displeased with his two most high-profile park commissioners.
“It's not really much of a reach,” Hart said. “Doing this broadcasts to other gubernatorial appointees: If you don't follow the party line, you'll be gone.”
Schwarzenegger's press secretary, Aaron McClear, said the governor's decision to replace Shriver and Eastwood wasn't connected to their stand against the toll road.
“The governor believes Mr. Eastwood and Mr. Shriver did an outstanding job on the state parks commission and is grateful for their service,” McClear said. “It's not unusual when commissioners' terms expire to replace them with some fresh legs.”
Governor wants Clint Eastwood, Shriver's brother replaced with 'fresh legs'
By Terry Rodgers
UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
Take your pick.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger either felt the need for “fresh legs” on the state Park & Recreation Commission or was in the mood for political payback.
Whatever his true sentiments, his staff notified his brother-in-law Bobby Shriver and actor Clint Eastwood on Monday that they were no longer needed as state park commissioners.
Shriver, 53, a Democrat and brother of First Lady Maria Shriver, and Eastwood, 77, a Republican and former mayor of Carmel, were first appointed to the advisory commission by Gov. Gray Davis in 2001.
Three years later, Schwarzenegger reappointed both of them to four-year terms.
On Tuesday, Shriver said he and Eastwood had submitted requests to serve another four-year term. Eastwood couldn't be reached for comment.
As commissioners, the two men voted to oppose a 16-mile extension of state Route 241 that would connect southern Orange County to Interstate 5 at San Onofre. The toll road would cut across a nature reserve in Orange County and the San Onofre State Beach, a site considered sacred by American Indians and cherished by surfers and campers.
Shriver and Eastwood also supported a lawsuit against the road project that was filed on behalf of the park commission by the state attorney general.
Schwarzenegger publicly endorsed the toll road extension, saying it would reduce traffic congestion. The governor also said the project would allow the financially beleaguered state park department to take advantage of a $100 million grant offered by the Transportation Corridor Agencies in exchange for approval of the road.
The toll road proposal hit a major roadblock in February, when the state Coastal Commission voted 8-2 against it during a hearing at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The Transportation Corridor Agencies has appealed that decision to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce.
Shriver, a city councilman for Santa Monica, felt so strongly about the toll road that he testified against it at the Coastal Commission meeting.
“Whatever the reason was I wasn't reappointed, I'm glad I voted the way I did,” Shriver said Tuesday. “I still think it's a bad idea to put a freeway through a park.”
State park commissioner Caryl Hart of Sebastopol, who last year was appointed to a third term on the panel, said she has little doubt that Schwarzenegger was displeased with his two most high-profile park commissioners.
“It's not really much of a reach,” Hart said. “Doing this broadcasts to other gubernatorial appointees: If you don't follow the party line, you'll be gone.”
Schwarzenegger's press secretary, Aaron McClear, said the governor's decision to replace Shriver and Eastwood wasn't connected to their stand against the toll road.
“The governor believes Mr. Eastwood and Mr. Shriver did an outstanding job on the state parks commission and is grateful for their service,” McClear said. “It's not unusual when commissioners' terms expire to replace them with some fresh legs.”
Monday, March 17, 2008
TCA Appeal is Official
As expected today, the Federal Register printed the notice for the TCA's appeal of the CA Coastal Commission's decision. The CCC's jurisdiction is provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which resides in the US Dep't of Commerce. This means that the ultimate decision on whether to honor the CCC's decision or over-ride it lies with the Secretary of Commerce.
Today's announcement tells us that NOAA will be accepting comments for 30 days starting on April 28. This will be your opportunity to let the federal government know what has been made clear here in California: No Toll Roads through San Onofre State Beach!!
Starting on the 28th we'll provide an electronic action alert to make it easy for you to send in your comments. We are also requesting that NOAA hold a public hearing on this issue to give the public a chance to voice your opinions.
NOAA pulled together a really nice FAQ on the process. Of particular importance is this:
"What does the Secretary consider on appeal from a state’s objection?
The Secretary may override a state’s objection if the proposed activity is either:
· Consistent with the objectives of the CZMA. Projects consistent with the objectives of the CZMA are those where: a) the project furthers the national interest in the CZMA objectives in a significant or substantial manner; b) this national interest outweighs any adverse coastal effects (both separately and cumulatively); and c) there is no reasonable alternative available that would allow the activity to proceed consistent with the state program; or
· Necessary in the interest of national security. "
Today's announcement tells us that NOAA will be accepting comments for 30 days starting on April 28. This will be your opportunity to let the federal government know what has been made clear here in California: No Toll Roads through San Onofre State Beach!!
Starting on the 28th we'll provide an electronic action alert to make it easy for you to send in your comments. We are also requesting that NOAA hold a public hearing on this issue to give the public a chance to voice your opinions.
NOAA pulled together a really nice FAQ on the process. Of particular importance is this:
"What does the Secretary consider on appeal from a state’s objection?
The Secretary may override a state’s objection if the proposed activity is either:
· Consistent with the objectives of the CZMA. Projects consistent with the objectives of the CZMA are those where: a) the project furthers the national interest in the CZMA objectives in a significant or substantial manner; b) this national interest outweighs any adverse coastal effects (both separately and cumulatively); and c) there is no reasonable alternative available that would allow the activity to proceed consistent with the state program; or
· Necessary in the interest of national security. "
Friday, March 14, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Top Ten Reasons the Toll Road Failed
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
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
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)