alleymon Residents say highway construction project would lead to increased traffic.
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO – The City Council today will discuss hiring an environmental expert to review Caltrans’ plans for the widening of Ortega Highway, after concerns from residents that the project will lead to more traffic congestion.
The widening to four lanes is planned from Calle Entradero to the eastern city limits at La Pata.
A number of residents have spoken against the widening, claiming it would bring more traffic to the city. A petition opposing the project was given to city officials with 275 signatures in October.
Caltrans is expected to release its latest Ortega proposal in April. The agency has decided that the project does not merit a full environmental impact report, city staff said.
The council will decide whether to hire an expert to review Caltrans’ environmental determinations to make sure they are in compliance with state requirements. The work would cost an estimated $40,000, staff said.
The City Council meets at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. The full agenda is available at www.sanjuancapistrano.org.
Contact the writer: 949-454-7329 or semery@ocregister.com