HILLSBOROUGH, Calif. - A statue that greeted Peninsula drivers for decades has been removed. Caltrans took down the statue of Junípero Serra in Hillsborough along Interstate 280 earlier this summer.

The agency said the statue did not meet current Transportation Art Program requirements and had become a frequent target of graffiti and vandalism.

The statue was dedicated in June 1976 and honored the Franciscan priest known for spreading Christianity throughout California during the mission era.

Caltrans said there are no plans to replace the statue with any other artwork.

Archdiocese responds to removal

What they're saying:

In a statement, the Archdiocese of San Francisco questioned the removal of the statue, noting its connection to California history and Catholic heritage.

"Fo

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