Southbound Eureka Slough Bridge Emergency Repair Project (California Endangered Species Act Incidental Take Permit No. 2081(b)-2026-047-01)

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has issued a California Endangered Species Act (CESA; Fish & G. Code, § 2050 et seq.) Incidental Take Permit (ITP) No. 2081(b)-2026-047-01 authorizing the California Department of Transportation, District 1 (Caltrans) to incidentally take Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and Longfin Smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys) which are listed as threatened species under CESA, respectively (Fish & G. Code § 2050 et seq.; see Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 670.5, subd. (b)(2)(D) and (b)(2)(E), respectively). The ITP authorizes take of Coho Salmon and Longfin Smelt for activities associated with the Project which are necessary to facilitate an emergency repair of the Southbound Eureka Slough Bridge. Caltrans states parts of the bridge footings have failed, compromising the foundation of the bridge. A Bridge Record of Critical Finding has been issued by Caltrans as a response to the condition of the bridge. Caltrans states these findings present a sudden, unexpected discovery, involving a clear and imminent danger, demanding immediate action to prevent or mitigate loss of, or damage to life, health, property, and essential public services. Given the extent of damage to the foundation of the bridge, Caltrans states immediate action is required. To facilitate this emergency repair, a work trestle and (if needed) a temporary detour bridge will be constructed just north of the SB Eureka Slough Bridge. This work trestle will span the full length of the slough, parallel to the bridge, to allow for potential repairs and/or installation of a temporary detour bridge, pending further investigation. The Project will include impact pile driving, which would result in take of listed species. Caltrans states the proposed solution is the minimum scope necessary to prevent or mitigate the loss or impairment of life, health, property, and essential services while also considering the most minimal environmental impacts practicable. On June 17, 2026, Caltrans filed a California Environmental Quality Act Notice of Exemption for this emergency Project (State Clearing House Number 2026060768).