Board debates asking Caltrans to open Monitor Pass between storms amid safety concerns

Alpine County supervisors on March 3 discussed whether to ask Caltrans Districts 9 and 10 to open Monitor Pass (Highway 89) between winter storms to support businesses in Markleyville and improve seasonal travel.

Proponents, including the District 5 supervisor who placed the item on the agenda, argued that reduced snow in many winters and a shorter problematic segment near the pass make intermittent opening feasible and helpful to local commerce. "It makes a big difference to the businesses in Markleyville," the supervisor said, noting a historical daily revenue example.

First responders and public-safety officials urged caution. Paul Washam, chief of Eastern Alpine Fire and Rescue, said the change would "add more of a risk for us," pointing to increased rescue calls, recreational users accessing remote areas, and strain on volunteer resources if roads were opened on a sporadic basis. Undersheriff Taylor Greene asked that law-enforcement and CHP be consulted because staffing for highway patrol is limited.

Several supervisors recommended outreach to Mono County and Caltrans before finalizing a letter; one suggested delaying a one-off submission to pursue a joint approach with Mono County to strengthen the request. County staff reported they had already briefed Caltrans staff informally and that Caltrans had safety and resource concerns, including the need to manage openings and closures without compromising safety.

The board agreed to continue stakeholder engagement and to return the item after coordinating with Mono County and public-safety partners; no final direction was approved at the March 3 meeting.