Below see an email I received today from Surfriders. I am a member of the Gulf Coast Chapter.


Dear Surfrider Supporter,
A VICTORY FOR TRESTLES!

The Department of Commerce announced today that it would uphold the California Coastal Commission's ruling that found the TCA's proposed extension of the 241 Toll Road inconsistent with the California Coastal Act. The Department of Commerce "determined that there is at least one reasonable alternative to the project [and] that the project is not necessary in the interest of national security".

We are elated that the Secretary of Commerce chose to uphold the California Coastal Commission's ruling against the planned extension to the SR-241 toll road. This decision is a significant milestone in our efforts to protect San Onofre State Beach Park and the surrounding environment; and underscores the effectiveness of grassroots activism.

While this is a major victory for the Surfrider Foundation and our coalition members, the fight to build the toll road is not over. Should the TCA decide to appeal the decision, the Surfrider Foundation and its coalition partners are ready to fight that battle as well. Surfrider is now calling upon the TCA and other state and local officials to embrace alternative transportation strategies that will better address the county's traffic issues without jeopardizing our environmental, recreational and economic resources.

This victory would not have been possible if it was not for the activists who showed up by the thousands at the California Coastal Commission and Department of Commerce hearings and for dedicated members like you, who have supported Surfrider along the way.

Thank you again for your generosity and support.


Happy Holidays,

The Surfrider Foundation