by Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun
La Cañada High School will host the next local meeting on the controversial proposal to extend the Long Beach (710) Freeway, and local activists are hoping for a strong turnout as the planning for the project enters a new phase.
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority is embarking this year on a three-year environmental review of plans to close the so-called 710 gap between Alhambra and Pasadena. The study may rule out a surface freeway connecting the 710 to the Foothill (210) Freeway, but may give support to construction of a tunnel connecting the freeways.
City leaders and local advocates have long opposed a tunnel or surface route, saying any extension would increase truck traffic on Foothill Boulevard and generate more noise and pollution on the 210.
Helen Ortiz-Gilstrap, spokeswoman for Metro, said residents will get an overview of the environmental study process at the April 30 meeting. So far 60 people have signed up to attend.
