More Opposition to I-5 Expansion

On Monday night, a town hall meeting was held to explain the possible impacts of an expansion to Interstate 5 in the North County.
The proposed multibillion dollar project includes a stretch on I-5 from La Jolla to Oceanside.
 
The meeting, held at the Encinitas Community Center, was organized by groups opposed to the expansion. Many people voiced their concerns about noise, congestion, air pollution and declining property values.
 
β€œThe emissions are a concern,” Liz Taylor, with the Encinitas Environmental Commission said. β€œI know we are all concerned about greenhouse gas levels; more cars means more emissions.”
 
Caltrans estimates that dozens of homes and businesses will be bought out and destroyed along the northern stretch of I-5. Hundreds of others may lose part of their property.
 
The Encinitas Environmental Commission released a list of properties that could be affected in that city, including some on Orpheus and Ocean View avenues, Santa Fe Drive, Union Street and Mackinnon Avenue.
 
Residents like Dan Murphy, 31, said he came to the meeting to educate himself and his neighbors. 

β€œI think that's a huge problem -- that a lot of these projects just happen without the community’s awareness,” Murphy said. β€œIt gets approved, then we see it getting built, and no one knew about it. I think it’s important that the public knows and hears about it.”
 
Caltrans representatives were invited to the meeting but didn't attend. They have held their own public meetings to discuss the project.
 

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