Ferguson Rockslide

What effect does it have on you and your business or organization?

Public Meeting to Discuss the Issues

Tuesday, March 6, 2007

6 p.m.

Mariposa County Board Chambers

5100 Bullion Street  

The purpose of this meeting is to gather information from the business community and other organizations located in Mariposa County regarding the effects of the rockslide.  Of primary concern is the potential ongoing effects caused by the length limitations currently placed on vehicles traveling on Highway 140.

 Background

When the rockslide first occurred it was declared an emergency by the State. As such, Caltrans was authorized to act quickly to reopen the road.  The temporary bridges were put into place allowing for the flow of traffic. 

Since the opening of the temporary bridges, however, the rockslide has lost its standing with Caltrans as an emergency.  Although many individuals within the agency understand the need to fully open the road as soon as possible, officially the repair is now considered a “routine” project for Caltrans.  This could mean that the road may not be open to bus or two-way traffic for six years, possibly more.

 What's Next?

The Board of Supervisors and other local officials have been working with State officials to keep resources focused on the Ferguson rockslide. The emphasis has been to solicit the cooperation of Caltrans to improve the temporary fix so as to allow for buses and other vehicles longer than 28 feet to use the highway.

Your assistance is needed in order to persuade the State that the limitations caused by the temporary fix are detrimental to the community.  

Please be prepared to submit pertinent information at the meeting.  Has the limitation on vehicles affected your business? Have you had to reduce hiring or let people go?  Have your sales suffered?  Have you had to make other arrangements to get to work?  Has your organization had to make other arrangements in order to provide services and what is this cost?  What will happen to your organization if traffic is curtailed for six years?  

This is the type of information needed to assist your local officials in making their case to the state.  If you are able to participate please make plans to attend the meeting.  If you have information and cannot attend the meeting please submit it to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, P.O. Box 784 or via e-mail to mwilliams@mariposacounty.org.

For more information call 966-3222