Councilwoman demands underground solution to protect wildlife

During a recent government meeting, Councilwoman Marsha McLean of Santa Clarita raised significant concerns regarding the environmental impact of a proposed transportation project. As the current chair of the San Fernando Valley Council of Governments and a director of the North County Transportation Coalition, McLean emphasized the deficiencies in the final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), particularly regarding the preferred alignment's effects on Santa Clarita and neighboring communities, including Pacoima and San Fernando.

McLean advocated for a fully underground alignment, citing nearly a decade of efforts to push for this solution. She argued that while there are substantial costs associated with underground construction, the long-term benefits—including the preservation of recreational areas, natural resources, and wildlife—would outweigh these expenses. She highlighted the potential risks to endangered species posed by the proposed above-ground train speeds, particularly as the train exits a tunnel.

The councilwoman's comments were part of a broader discussion on minimizing environmental impacts, and she urged the board to consider the opportunity to implement a more sustainable solution. McLean concluded by noting that a formal comment letter had been submitted to the board, reinforcing her position on the need for careful consideration of the project's implications.