SAN BERNARDINO – (INT) – Supporters of solar power and preservationists of historic Route 66 clashed Tuesday before the County Board of Supervisors.

Ted Stenford of the California Historic Route 66 Association complained there had been no glint-and-glare study and that a 175-acre site adjoining the highway at Helendale was inappropriate for a 20 megawatt solar generating plant.

“Alamo Solar offered a cash payment to us to withdraw our appeal. We rejected that offer. We did not oppose the project to make money.”

Alamo’s Jennifer Bradford said the site would not be a distraction for those traveling the old historic highway.

“The site is at a lower elevation from Route 66. You don’t see all the site when you’re driving along Route 66.”

County supervisors without comment denied the appeal. That clears the way for issuance of a permit for the solar power facility.

Story Date: April 27, 2014