"Richardson Grove is a "heritage park" with worldwide significance. These forests are enjoyed by millions of people extending from those in the region to more distant statewide visitors; people come from the furthest reaches of our nation and all corners of the planet to experience the Redwoods and most pass through Richardson Grove to do so.
Many of these visitors have strong legacy ties to Richardson Grove State Park, and a family connection that spans generations. Any project that affects the historic patina and the natural fabric of Richardson Grove State Park can have far reaching impact to millions of people as they enter the Redwood Region." (California State Parks, in their public comments on the draft EIR)
As we go to press, CalTrans has not yet released the final Environmental Impact Report for their Richardson Grove realignment project. The Caltrans website announces:
"Final Environmental Document/Project Approval and Environmental Clearance--Spring 2010" and "Project to Construction--Winter/Spring 2011."
What seems to be lacking in the CalTrans schedule is any opportunity for public participation in their final plan. CalTrans released a draft document, the public responded, and CalTrans now will release its final plan and proceed to construction. The draft document itself was hastily drawn up, inconsistent with CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act), contained unenforceable mitigation measures; yet the public will now be handed the final document and CalTrans will proceed to construction.
What if their final plan is no better or even worse that their draft? What is wrong with this picture?
A local community member writes: "When I first learned of the project in 2007 I attempted to gain access to one of the "stakeholder" meetings that CalTrans was holding. I placed a request to attend with my State Senator's local aide, Zuretti Goosby. He responded with a denial stating that CalTrans did not consider the public a "stakeholder."
That is what is wrong. CalTrans does not believe that the public is a stakeholder in issues that pertain to our parks or our highways.
Stay tuned....
For more information: www.saverichardsongrove.org
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TOC for Forest & River News, Spring 2010