New Loop Road plan addresses community's concerns

Another key part of the continuing revitalization of South Lake Tahoe was unveiled to the local community Tuesday evening during an open house presented by the Tahoe Transportation District (TTD). What was once known as the "Loop Road" project has evolved into what is being called the "Community Revitalization Plan."

There are now five alternatives to the plan, each one addressing the concerns the public had including affordable housing, economic stimulus, better bike, car, pedestrian movement, environmental improvements and scenic improvements.

With the original Loop Road plan, many from the South Lake Tahoe community reacted strongly to the removal of homes and businesses that would be necessary to reroute Highway 50. Some even said it was a plan to drive the tourist dollars to Nevada and were concerned for businesses along the Stateline corridor. The Tahoe Transportation District, the lead agency on the plan, met with concerned business owners, home owners and local residents, listened to their issues and came up with new, revised plans, all of which were presented at Tuesday's meeting.

Mike McKeen, owner of the Naked Fish, was once a major opponent to the original plan which would have diverted the highway through his restaurant property.

"It's come a long way," McKeen said of the new plan. "There are no more unknowns and the community gets a lot more out of this plan."

"This will help South Lake Tahoe blossom," said McKeen.

Dave and Sally Kiesel have owned a home on the Nevada side of the South Shore since the 1950s want to see improved movement of vehicles through Stateline so they can visit the California side to shop and enjoy the town. "We are for anything that will improve transportation," said Dave Kiesel.

Carl Hasty, the TTD District Manager, said the new project has more depth to it and that it addresses people's concerns.

"This project will help us fulfill what redevelopment started," said Hasty. "This new robust plan came out of the public's participation."

South Lake Tahoe City Councilwoman JoAnn Conner was at the Open House. She said that the City wants to be part of the process but there are still some things not clear. Conner said Hasty and TTD will be presenting the plan at Monday's City Council meeting.

"This will be a great project," said Conner.

"I am trying to digest it all," said South Lake Tahoe Chamber President Duane Wallace. "Our board is going to invited TTD to come speak to them because they still have questions."

Wallace said his big concern is still eminent domain and how TTD will take control of the homes that will be in the way of the new highway.

For more details, photos and a survey, visit www.connectsouthshore.com.

There will be another community open house in January.