Board approves resolution of necessity to acquire easement for Chimney Rock Road bridge replacement

The San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors on May 29 adopted a resolution of necessity to acquire permanent easement interests needed to construct a permanent bridge on Chimney Rock Road over Franklin Creek (Milepost 12.425).

Public Works Deputy Director John Waddell and project presenter Valerie Moore told the Board that severe January–March 2023 storms damaged the original culverted berm, stranding residents in lakeside communities and forcing the county to install a leased temporary single‑lane bridge at roughly $22,000 per month. Public Works is planning a permanent bridge (approximately 175 feet long and 30 feet wide with two 10‑foot travel lanes and shoulders) and said construction is planned for spring 2026. To meet procurement timelines—advertising in October 2025—the county needs to secure one permanent easement (approx. 0.39 acres) from parcels where title is clouded because some vested owners are deceased.

Staff said they had made offers of just compensation (offer date 2025‑04‑11 for the vested owners) and had negotiated with living owners; but because of title clouds the Board must find the property interest necessary in order to proceed to the eminent‑domain process. Moore described the steps: hearing on necessity, adoption of the resolution (which occurred), and then court proceedings if required; owners may withdraw just compensation on deposit during the process.

After staff presentation and questions about outreach and owner coordination, the Board adopted the resolution by the required supermajority, authorizing the chair to execute necessary documents and directing the Director of Public Works to complete actions to close the transaction and allow the project to proceed on schedule.

Staff said the project will reduce long‑term costs (temporary bridge lease) and restore two‑lane access and improved fire and commerce access for Running Deer Ranch, Cal Shasta and Tri‑Counties areas. The resolution was adopted as staff recommended; the Board recorded the roll call vote in the meeting minutes.

Public Works noted that the county has already spent emergency funds to restore limited access and that permanent construction will require additional right‑of‑way and permitting work; staff emphasized they are coordinating with property owners and explained the statutory eminent‑domain process to property owners in advance.

The Board directed staff to complete the administrative and legal steps necessary to secure the easements and return as required for final construction‑phase approvals.