Overview
- Caltrans removed and demolished the 26-foot Junípero Serra statue overlooking the Crystal Springs rest stop in August 2025.
- The agency cites Transportation Art Program noncompliance, frequent vandalism, and a rebar-and-shotcrete build that made relocation unsafe.
- Caltrans filed CEQA paperwork in March 2025 and determined the work was ineligible for the California Register after evaluation.
- Officials say outreach beginning in spring 2024 included Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone, but the Archdiocese contends it was not informed until after removal.
- Local Ohlone representatives who had urged removal welcomed the decision, and Caltrans says there are no plans to install replacement artwork at the site.