Panel Seeks Delay to Study Freeway Extension
In a move that could delay design work on the proposed Long Beach freeway extension, an independent federal agency that protects the country’s historic resources may not decide until March whether it wants to challenge federal approval of the project.
The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s executive committee has asked its chairman to request the transportation secretary to give them more time to review the $1.4-billion project and allow the entire council membership--as opposed to the smaller executive body--to vote on the matter March 13, said John Fowler, the council’s executive director.
If the secretary declines an extension, however, a special advisory council meeting could be called earlier, Fowler said. Transportation officials said any extension may be complicated by the fact that freeway proponents are suing over the constant delays on the project.
The advisory council’s executive body met Monday but delayed action on whether to request the president’s Council on Environmental Quality to review the dispute and act as a mediator.
Opponents are hoping such a referral will stall the 6.2-mile roadway through Pasadena, South Pasadena and El Sereno.
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