Archbishop, community surprised by Junipero Serra statue removal along Hwy 280 in San Mateo Co.

"Since 1976, a nearly 30-foot-tall statue depicting Saint Junipero Serra overlooked Highway 280 in Hillsborough, but not any more. Many were recently surprised to find the statue was no longer in its usual spot, including the Archbishop of San Francisco. Here one day, seemingly gone the next. The Saint Junipero Serra statue, an iconic sight for 50 years, was removed by CalTrans because it did not meet current Transportation Art Program requirements and was the frequent target of vandalism."

"It was also not eligible for the California Register of Historical Resources. Patricia Gonzalez has worked at the Crystal Springs rest stop for many years and says its removal has come as a shock to many visitors. "People are going to miss it," Gonzalez said. "People still come every day from all over the world. The last person that came was from Ireland. They brought some relatives to see the statue, and it was gone.""

"He told ABC7 News in a statement that officials likely didn't consult with anyone who would give them a different opinion and, "would we expect this treatment if it happened to be associated with another religious organization? I think not." The statue that once stood here was actually removed in August. Due to its rebar and concrete construction, it could not be preserved and was instead completely destroyed."

Since 1976 a nearly 30-foot statue of Saint Junipero Serra stood overlooking Highway 280 in Hillsborough. CalTrans removed the statue because it did not meet current Transportation Art Program requirements, was frequently vandalized, and was ineligible for the California Register of Historical Resources. Patricia Gonzalez and many visitors expressed shock and disappointment at the sudden absence. Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone said he learned of the removal only after it occurred and questioned whether similar treatment would be given to other religious organizations. The statue was removed in August and destroyed due to its rebar and concrete construction. The Association of Ramaytush Ohlone had long sought its removal.

Read at ABC7 San Francisco