710 Freeway Extension
As a resident of Alhambra, I am appalled at the deceitful game our city officials are playing as proponents of the extension of the Long Beach Freeway through our neighboring communities of El Sereno, South Pasadena and Pasadena.
Our officials contend that the extension is needed to relieve the bottleneck and congestion at Valley and Fremont in our city. If this is true and they are so concerned, why did they agree years ago to funnel the traffic to this intersection and specifically down Fremont to accommodate a large business by eliminating several existing crossings over the lowered railroad tracks?
If so concerned about congestion, why are these same officials proposing a 2.5-million-square foot development in this same so-called congested area.
Why are they not disclosing to the residents of Alhambra that the extension of the freeway will increase traffic for at least two miles on major east/west streets as stated in the circulation element of Alhambra’s own General Plan?
These questions are simply answered. Alhambra officials lack vision. They have only one word in their vocabulary--development.
I hope South Pasadenans continues to fight to save their charming city. Unfortunately, it’s too late for Alhambra, but it’s not too late for South Pasadena.
PAUL RAMIREZ
Alhambra
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