This is not a problem that only OCs have to worry about. According to reports, they may be considering similar plans under the San Gabriels. The tunnel would allow the desert people to have a direct route into Downtown LA. Although it may not seem like a tunnel would pose a danger to open riding areas, it could. Consider all the equipment required to complete such an undertaking. The tunnel will also be connected to all surface roads, businesses, and homes.
Below is additional information from the Warriors Society about the Santa Ana tunnel.
We all know that planning for the tunnel through Santa Ana Mountains is ongoing. Our consultant is certain that the route will pass through Ladd Canyon/Baker Canyon. Construction of any tunnel takes 5 to 5 years, despite the fact that planning is ongoing.
Ten years away
We will monitor this issue to ensure that the best interests of the public are served. We recognize the importance of improving traffic flow between Riverside and Orange County. We hope that all options are explored, not just a tunnel. We are concerned about the potential impact of the tunnel on The Cleveland National Forest, and local canyon communities. We remind everyone to be skeptical about any initial cost estimates.
Public works projects such as the Santa Anas tunnel often have low estimates to attract government and public support. Boston’s Big Dig tunnel under Boston Harbor was originally estimated to cost billion, but it ended up costing billion. Proponents know that once such projects are begun, it is very difficult for government funding to stop them from growing out of control.
It is being discussed that a major water pipeline could be included in the tunnel construction. We support such projects because they would reduce any future impacts on the National Forest or the communities nearby.
Mike Boeck, our consultant/advisor on the issue, provided the following information about public meetings regarding the tunnel proposal:
The Orange County Transportation Agency (and the Riverside County Transportation Commission) will hold meetings over the next month to solicit public input about the numerous transportation improvements (including a road through or under Trabuco District in the Cleveland National Forest). These transportation improvements are currently being studied to ease traffic congestion on the 91 freeway, and improve traffic flow between Riverside County and Orange County.
The selection process is ongoing, and a recommendation will be made by the year’s end. Multiple improvements are possible, which means that approval may be given for a combination of different transportation projects.
You can learn more about the Riverside County to Orange County Major Investment Study, (RC to OC MIS), or make comments about it at one of these public meetings.
Bell Tower Regional Community Center
22232 El Paseo
Rancho Santa Margarita
Heritage Park Regional Library
Irvine, CA
Corona Public Library
650 S. Main Street
Corona, CA
San Juan Capistrano Community Center
25925 Camino del Avion
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Anaheim Hills Community Center
8201 E Santa Ana Canyon Road
Anaheim, CA
Lake Elsinore Cultural Center
183 North Main Street
Lake Elsinore (CA)
You can find more information on this project at:
The Warriors Society is at www.warriorssociety.org.
