WORRIED ABOUT CVS RELATED TRAFFIC???

Okay, here's the deal - Caltrans is reviewing the CVS project and has yet to issue the green light to the developers.  Read this letter from Caltrans and then voice your concerns to Allyn Amsk.  Keep your comments limited to traffic and public safety and send to Allyn Amsk at:

allyn.amsk@dot.ca.gov

From: Allyn Amsk <allyn.amsk@dot.ca.gov>

Date: September 16, 2013 10:55:27 AM PDT

Subject: City of Sebastopol's Proposed Commercial Property Development Adjacent to State Routes 12 and 116

Dear Sebastopol Residents:

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has received numerous emails from residents regarding the City of Sebastopol’s proposed commercial property development on State Route (SR) 12 in Sebastopol.

Caltrans neither supports nor objects to the proposed development for a CVS Pharmacy and Chase Bank adjacent to State Routes 12 and 116 in Sebastopol.  The role of Caltrans staff is to remain neutral and to review a project to ensure that it does not negatively affect the State highway system.  If impacts are identified, we seek ways to mitigate those impacts.  

The developer has been sent a letter with specific comments and requirements for the encroachment permit requested from Caltrans for this project.  The developer has not yet responded to this letter or complied with Caltrans concerns, so at this time the encroachment permit has not been issued.

Traffic engineers here at Caltrans are also reviewing the many comments from the public about traffic concerns on SR 12 in Sebastopol.  Safety and mobility are priorities at Caltrans, and you may be assured that pedestrian safety and traffic congestion will continue to be an essential element of consideration during the permit process.

Please note that Caltrans does not have the authority to prevent approval of a development project under local government jurisdiction.  Caltrans can only place conditions through the encroachment permit process on how projects access the State highway system. The City of Sebastopol, however, has the authority to approve or deny this project and impose conditions on its use.  Please continue to direct your concerns about the proposed development to the City of Sebastopol.

If you have additional questions or concerns about the States’ process or projects on State Highways, please call or email.

Thank you,

Allyn Amsk
Public Information Officer
Caltrans, District 4, Office of Public Affairs
Office (510) 286-5445