Superior Court Rules in Favor SJHTCA on Newport Coast Drive

SANTA ANA, Calif. -- The Orange County Superior Court today ruled the San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency (SJHTCA) complied with state law when it incorporated a portion of Newport Coast Drive for the 15-mile San Joaquin Hills Corridor, Orange County's newest toll road.

The Superior Court ruled that state codes provide the requisite authority to the SJHTCA to convert a portion of Newport Coast Drive in Newport Beach into the toll road. 

"This decision is the last legal hurdle for us," said Paul Glaab, spokesman for the agency. "We're pleased the court upheld our position. We now look ahead for the successful completion of the San Joaquin Hills Corridor by December -- three months ahead of schedule."

The San Joaquin Hills Corridor's first 7-mile segment was opened to traffic on July 24, 1996. The toll road stretches from Interstate 5 in San Juan Capistrano to the John Wayne Airport/South Coast Metro area. The northern portion of the road is being built on the alignment of Newport Coast Drive.

Since 1991, 11 lawsuits have challenged various local, state and federal approvals of the corridor. All lawsuits have been resolved in favor of the agency.

This site was created by Marlin Software in conjunction with CyberPipe Productions