More arrests, further work disruptions at Willits bypass site

Two women were arrested Tuesday as protesters again disrupted work on the Highway 101 Willits bypass project.

Kim Bancroft and Maureen Kane, who locked themselves to a bulldozer at the south end of the project, were arrested after voluntarily unlocking themselves just after noon, said Caltrans spokesman Phil Frisbie.

Steve Keys, who was supplying the women with water, also was arrested, according to Redwood Nation Earth First.

Protests have been taking place since work began early this year, adding more than $1.2 million to the cost of the 5.9-mile, $210 million bypass project, Caltrans officials said.

Protesters say the project is unnecessary and damaging to the environment.

Supporters and Caltrans say the project is critical to alleviating traffic congestion in downtown Willits, through which Highway 101 currently runs.