All signs indicate that Caltrans should make an exception

Rules are a necessary part of life, but as with many things, there are obvious exceptions.

The recent decision by Caltrans to tell Gov. Schwarzenneger not to approve a freeway sign for the World War II Commemorative Air Force Museum at Camarillo Airport because the museum doesn't draw 500,000 visitors a year is a rule that definitely requires an exception.

Yes, Caltrans needs to have rules to determine what requirements need to be met in order for signs to be placed along the freeway. It makes sense. Too many signs cluttering the side of the road doesn't do anyone any good.

But it doesn't make sense for Caltrans to recommend to Gov. Schwarzenegger not to sign the bill that passed unanimously in the Assembly and overwhelmingly in the state Senate simply because the museum doesn't attract a certain number of annual visitors.

Caltrans-perhaps one of the most disliked government agencies in California-failed to recognize that a clear majority of California's state representatives voted to pass the bill.

Those reps realized that although the museum may not have met Caltrans' yearly visitors quota, the sign would let motorists along the 101 Freeway know the museum exists.

The museum, which includes one of the world's last B-25 Mitchell bombers, houses a collection of aircraft that serve to remind visitors of the sacrifices made by those who flew the planes during wartime.

A number of local veterans have been working since 2001 to get approval of the freeway sign. And now, just a matter of days before the governor is expected to sign the bill, Caltrans comes out against the whole plan.

In response, members of the Southern California Commemorative Air Force Wing have been writing letters to the governor encouraging him to sign the bill. Some of the letters in support have come from foreign countries.

It's clear that Caltrans needs to reconsider a rule that doesn't take into account the whole picture. A new sign added to one that already exists won't clutter the 101 Freeway.

Yes, the world needs rules, but it's clear that this rule needs an exception.