That process is rarely simple and requires extensive research over many years to develop alternatives that attempt to meet both those goals.  In the end, though, only one agency has the authority to determine which alternative is the Least Environmentally Damaging Practicable Alternative (LEDPA) – the Corps.  That is because the LEDPA determination is specific to the Corps' Clean Water Act Section 404 Permit Program.  Since the location of the proposed road falls within the jurisdiction of the Corps’ Los Angeles District, I, as its commander, am responsible to make that decision.

As part of the collaborative of federal, state and local agencies, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers did identify a preliminary LEDPA in 2005 based on information available to us at the time.  My intent in the letter, as a neutral arbiter in the environmental review, was to make clear that our process has not run its course.  There has been no final, formal decision on any of the remaining practicable alternatives.  More analysis, public review and comment are needed and are ongoing.

All parties involved in the decision process understand a great deal is at stake: for commuters, for the economy, for the environment and for recreation.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is committed to a comprehensive and unbiased review of all information and points of view during the environmental review process.  The citizens of California have my pledge that the decision I make will be based on the best science available and a determination to rule in the public interest.  When the Final Environmental Impact Statement is complete, we look forward to presenting it to the public for comment, and will stand proudly behind our actions when we do.

Col. Thomas H. Magness, IV
 

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