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New Provision Could Handcuff San Onofre Toll Road Development

A congressional panel approved an amendment that could affect a plan to build a toll road through part of San Onofre State Beach. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce has details.

New Provision Could Handcuff San Onofre Toll Road Development

A congressional panel approved an amendment that could affect a plan to build a toll road through part of San Onofre State Beach. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce has details.

Developers want to build the 16-mile toll road through the popular park and part of Camp Pendleton. Supporters say it will relieve congestion on part of I-5. Environmentalists argue it will damage a nearby campground and disturb the home of several endangered species.

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San Diego Congresswoman Susan Davis added an amendment to a defense spending bill. The provision, which was approved, says developers cannot bypass state laws that limit freeway construction on California parkland.

Two other provisions that sought to limit the project were rejected. The spending bill now heads to the full House of Representatives. The project already faces an uphill route. Developers want to start building the road in 2011. Before that happens, tollway officials need several permits and approvals from a long list of federal and state agencies.

Ed Joyce, KPBS News.