San Onofre State Beach Wins Critical Protections, Toll Road on Hold
A proposed toll road that would cut through the heart of a popular California state park has been put on hold.
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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 is not yet over. Toll road proponents have appealed the commission’s decision to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce.
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 force 60 percent of the park to close. It would spoil the world famous surf break at Trestles Beach and would likely cause the abandonment of the 161-unit San Mateo Campground.
Although the park is safe for the moment, the Secretary of Commerce has the discretion to override the California Coastal Commission’s decision. NRDC is working with local groups in California to prepare for the appeal process and ensure that the Coastal Commission’s well-reasoned decision is upheld.
Video: Clint Eastwood reminisces about learning to surf at San Onofre. Watch now!
