San Onofre State Beach Wins Critical Protections
A proposed toll road that would have cut through the heart of a popular California state park has been rejected.
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The California Coastal Commission has officially objected to a proposed six-lane toll road that would have cut straight through one of southern California's most popular state parks -- San Onofre State Beach.
After completing a rigorous legal and factual analysis, Coastal Commission staff presented a comprehensive report showing how the toll road threatens San Onofre State Beach and violates numerous state coastal policies. On February 6, 2008, at a boisterous 14-hour hearing attended by more than 3,500 people, the commission voted 8 to 2 to reject the short-sighted and destructive highway plan.
Despite this significant victory, the battle continued when toll road proponents appealed the commission's decision to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. In December 2008, the objections to the road were officially upheld, ensuring the protection of San Onofre.
San Onofre State Beach is enjoyed by more than two and a half million surfers, swimmers, campers, kayakers, birders, anglers, cyclists and sunbathers every year. It is home to 11 threatened or endangered species and significant portions of San Mateo Creek, one of the last unspoiled watersheds in southern California.
According to state officials, the toll road would have forced 60 percent of the park to close. It would have spoiled the world famous surf break at Trestles Beach and would have likely caused the abandonment of the 161-unit San Mateo Campground.
The Secretary of Commerce had the discretion to override the California Coastal Commission's decision, but made the right choice by listening to the voices of those who value the park rather than the lobbyists pushing for its destruction.
Video: Clint Eastwood reminisces about learning to surf at San Onofre. Watch now!
