Chapter 1 - Caltrans - State of California

Chapter 3 Comments and Coordination
substantially obscure views of the Pacific Ocean for the residents. The concrete median
and emergency crash gate would only be visible at the exit of the community. La
Conchita residents have high visual awareness and exposure to changes to their daily
views, the project features at this location would change their ocean views drastically.
Therefore, their response to proposed project features would be high.
Drivers and Cyclists
For the drivers and cyclists on U.S. 101 traveling southbound or northbound, the concrete
median and emergency crash gate would be part of their peripheral views. The
soundwall would obscure the residential community as well as a portion of the coastal
cliffs. For drivers and cyclists, their response to proposed project features would be
moderately high.
Mussel Shoals
Key view simulations for Mussel Shoals show the changes in the visual environment as a
result the proposed HOV lanes, soundwalls, emergency crash gate, concrete barriers and
bikeway improvements. Soundwalls are proposed within state right-of-way north and
south of the entrance into the community and an emergency crash gate would be installed
at the existing median opening, thereby closing off the median turn-out. Figure 2.1-31
and 2.1-32 depict the existing southbound view approaching the entrance to Mussel
Shoals.
The existing views from U.S. 101 include dramatic views of the steep coastal bluffs and
the roadway, community and Pacific Ocean. The visual quality of the location can be
described as dramatic and vivid. Overall, the site is relatively intact as the only existing
man-made elements are the roadway and the median.
118 IS/EA VEN-SB US101 HOV Project