Notice of Preparation (NOP) of an EIR / Scoping Meeting:

Caltrans has prepared a Notice of Preparation (NOP) of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) that describes the project alternatives under consideration and summarizes anticipated areas of impact.

What is an NOP?

The Notice of Preparation (NOP) is the first step in the EIR process. The purpose of the NOP is to obtain early comments on the proposed project, alternatives, and potential environmental impacts. Under CEQA, once the decision is made to prepare an EIR, a Notice of Preparation must be sent out to responsible agencies involved in approving or funding the project and to agencies responsible for natural resources affected by the project. 

The NOP provides a starting point for EIR 'scoping' period in which individuals, public organizations, and agencies are invited to learn about, evaluate, and comment on the proposed project.  

You can access the NOP in the Documents tab. 

Schedule: 

Notice of Preparation - February/ March 2026

Scoping Meeting - March 2026

Circulate Draft Environmental Document - Fall 2027

Project Overview

Background

Fernbridge is a concrete arch bridge on Highway 211 in Humboldt County, California. The bridge crosses the Eel River and is a beloved local landmark. Engineers built Fernbridge in 1911 and named it the “Queen of Bridges” due to its size. Fernbridge is the longest working poured concrete bridge in the world. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.  

The City of Ferndale depends on Fernbridge for direct access into town. Dairy, ranching, and tourism form the basis of Ferndale’s economy. The only alternate route is a time-consuming detour along Blue Slide Road.  

On December 20, 2022, there was a 6.4 magnitude earthquake 8 miles west/southwest of Ferndale. The earthquake caused widespread damage throughout Humboldt County. Fernbridge sustained major damage and closures. A second earthquake occurred on January 1, 2023. The earthquake increased pressure on the bridge. It highlighted the need for the Ferndale Access project. Caltrans completed safety repairs to allow two-way traffic by March 2023.   

Caltrans has scheduled one final element of emergency repairs. It will install a seismic gate system. If an earthquake occurs, the system will automatically close Fernbridge. The closure will prevent travel across the bridge. Caltrans will then complete a safety inspection before reopening to the public. 

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to restore reliable access to and from the city of Ferndale for all roadway users, which includes providing a structurally resilient bridge that meets current bridge design standards, reducing risk of damage from future events. 

Need

Fernbridge is the main route to and from Ferndale. On December 20, 2022, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit near Ferndale, damaging the bridge and road. Sensors showed shifts in the bridge's structure and widening cracks. Emergency repairs followed, aiming to reopen traffic and limit damage. However, a permanent fix is essential to strengthen the bridge against future earthquakes.

Benefits

Ferndale's economy depends on dairy, ranching, and tourism. Drivers must use Blue Slide Road for detours, which is long, time-consuming, and not suitable for increase in traffic. A safe, efficient route is vital. Fernbridge updates help the economy, residents, and tourists. It also ensures that emergency responders and goods and service providers have access to Ferndale. 

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