KPCC News In Brief

US Commerce Department sets toll road hearing

You’re going to have another chance to weigh in on the proposed toll road extension in South Orange County. The U.S. commerce secretary is planning a hearing next month. KPCC’s Susan Valot reports.

Susan Valot: Earlier this year, the California Coastal Commission held a day-long public hearing on the proposed extension of the 241 Toll Road from Rancho Santa Margarita to Interstate 5 near San Clemente. The commission then shot down the toll road plans.

The route runs through a state park and nature reserve. The Coastal Commission agreed it would harm the environment. But supporters say the extension is needed to relieve the traffic headache on I-5. They appealed to the secretary of commerce, who can overrule the California Coastal Commission.

Now, the Commerce Department says it’ll hold its own hearing September 22nd at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego County. If you want to talk at the hearing, you have to submit a written request by September 12th. The California Coastal Commission didn’t do that… and toll road supporters say that hearing turned into a circus.

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• August 26, 2008 9:45 AM
• Categories: Environment, Transportation