Well, bless my soul.

Governor Schwarzenegger has done something this conservative can praise: signed a letter to the California Coastal Commission in support of completing the 241 tollroad, saying:

I have concluded that this project is essential to protect our environment and the quality of life for everyone in Southern California. I am convinced that, with the extensive mitigation and avoidance measures propsoed by the TCA, the project can be built in a manner that will enhance and foster use of the coast and protect coastal resources.

I therefore urge the Coastal Commission to concur in the TCA's certification that the project is consistent with the California Coastal Zone Management Program.

That's great as far as it goes, but the Governor throws in several conditions upon which his support is predicated. After all, this is Governor Schwarzenegger and it won't do to expect an unconditional stance in favor of anything sensible.

Still, one can hope the Governor's commission appointees and Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez's see the light and over-rule the absurd staff report.