Caltrans' 91 Freeway landscaping project sparks controversy

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KABC) -- A plan to add landscaping by the 91 Freeway in Riverside has sparked controversy, as residents are being told to cut back on their water usage during the drought.

Caltrans removed 2 million square feet of trees and plants to make way for a carpool lane in 2012. The agency is looking to install drought tolerant plants and a smart irrigation system to give officials a better idea about their water usage.

Some residents, however, see the landscaping as a waste of water.

"Here on the one hand they're telling you we want you to ration your water and then they go and maliciously waste it by implementing some type of irrigation on the freeway, which to me doesn't make any sense," said Sal Villanueva, who ripped out his lawn to conserve water.

Caltrans officials say they are still working on a final plan and hope to begin landscaping in the fall.

Watch Inland Empire Reporter Leticia Juarez's full report in the video above.

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