The proposed Dockweiler extension is set to be further discussed by the Santa Clarita City Council Tuesday following opposition from several Newhall residents.

Officials said the Dockweiler Extension would improve the traffic and accessibility of Placerita Canyon and Newhall communities.

“The Lyons Avenue and Dockweiler Drive extension project is designed to improve traffic circulation, safety and access to the Placerita Canyon and Newhall communities,” city officials said in a statement on the city’s website. “Additional project benefits include wider traffic lanes, enhanced landscape medians, a bike lane and upgrades to the railroad crossing east of Railroad Avenue at the intersection of Lyons Avenue.”

On Feb. 27, 2018, the Santa Clarita City Council held a public hearing to give information about the final Environmental Impact Report for the project and to allow residents to give their opinions on the project.

The Environmental Impact Report offered several alternatives to the project, including using the already-available railroad crossing at 13th Street and creating another through lane at Market Street. The 13th Street route was recommended by city staff, as it was the plan with the least environmental impact.

Students from The Master’s University, located in Placerita Canyon, have expressed support for the new road.

“This new road will give students easier access to get to the CA-14 Highway instead of always driving down Placerita Canyon,” said David Wismer, a senior at TMU. “There will be connecting roads from where the dorms are located in order to quickly get off campus.”

Related: City Council Delays Decision On Dockweiler Extension

The majority of residents at the Feb. 27 meeting voiced opposition to the project.

“We reject the extension,” said Newhall resident Trisha Fasa. “Nobody who has stood there thinks this is a good idea. Please reject the proposal.”

Members of the Santa Clarita City Council acknowledged the many concerns expressed by city residents.

“When we have this many people come forward, it deeply concerns me,” said Councilman Bob Kellar.

Councilmembers ultimately voted 4-0 to move the hearing to April 10, with Mayor Laurene Weste recusing herself to prevent a potential conflict of interest, as she owns property near the proposed extension. The rest of the council mentioned plans to use the time before the next hearing to get more information on the project.

If the Santa Clarita City Council approves one of the routes on Tuesday, they will then need to submit an application to the California Public Utilities Commision for expected improvements to the 13th Street rail crossing, according to officials.

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