Looks like 30×30 is spreading! :EU approves landmark nature restoration plan despite months of protests by farmers.

Read About it: https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2024-06-17/landmark-eu-nature-restoration-plan-gets-the-green-light-despite-months-of-protests-by-farmers

– LATimes.com

June 20, OCTA Coastal Rail
Resiliency Study Listening Session

Friends of Harbors, Beaches and Parks (FHBP) for the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Coastal Rail Resiliency Study (CRRS) virtual listening session from 4 – 5 PM this Thursday, June 20, 2024. 

This event is specifically for the environmental and conservation community to weigh in on the short- and long-term options, impacts, and opportunities, etc. See the attached flier for more details, but know that this is a listening session. OCTA will not be hosting a Q&A format, this is the Authority’s chance to hear your thoughts, concerns, and ideas.

The Virtual Event
Date: Thursday, June 20^th
Time: 4-5 pm
Zoom info: https://bit.ly/CRRS-Mtg
Meeting ID: 830 5971 4628
Call in: (669) 900-6833

Background
As you may be aware, the train tracks between Dana Point and the San Diego County line are used for travel by commuters, tourists, goods movement, and the Department of Defense. A number of significant issues have caused rail closures over the past few years. The CRRS is exploring solutions to protect approximately seven miles of coastal railroad in place for up to 30 years, while the Authority works on longer term solutions. Just like a house with a leaking roof, immediate solutions are needed to stop the leak, while the longer-term solutions are evaluated and implemented. This situation is no different.

OCTA would like input from the environmental community and is offering a listening session specifically for our input. Please join as a participant at this virtual event to learn more about the study and share your input/questions. 

Resources
It is important to FHBP, that the Coalition is aware of the materials and resources available to you before this meeting. Understanding the issues in advance is critical to making substantive comments. Here are some resources for you to review before next Thursday’s virtual meeting:

• CRRS Website
• CRRS Fact Sheet
• CRRS Initial Assessment
• CRRS Frequently Asked Questions
• CRRS Maps
• Mass Transit Magazine Article, 05/03/23
• Voice of OC Article, 04/07/23
• Voice of OC Article, 04/12/23
• OC Register Article, 12/12/23
• Progressive Railroading Article, 8/15/23

Have Questions for FHBP?
Reach out to me, Connie Gallippi, as I’m FHBP’s new Program Consultant and main contact for this event. My email is Connie@FHBP.org.  

We hope to see you all there! 

Ensure Healthy Ecosystems

FHBP supports decisions that create healthy ecosystems and opposes those that don’t.

Engage the Community

FHBP collaborates with the community and organizations to achieve its mission.

Enhance Quality of Life

FHBP works to improve the quality of life and sustainability of our region.