Old Grade Will Stay Open

Tuolumne County Supervisors voted unanimously to keep Old Priest Grade open in both directions, after hearing from residents of Groveland at a special meeting last night. People who use the old road on a regular basis packed the Tenaya Elementary School gym and listened to presentations from the County´s staff and consultants on safety issues along the old road.

There had been suggestions, including full or partial closure of the road, because of safety concerns and possible exposure to lawsuits. One resident pointed out a safety hazard in closing the road. Mary Kelly pointed out that fire crews needed that route for access during the major fire in 1987. She also noted that the quick route down the mountain helped save her husband´s life when he was being taken to a hospital outside the town several years ago.

The county will look into better safety measures along the road, including better guardrails and more warning signs for drivers unfamiliar with the Grade.