Message from LADOT General Manager Laura Rubio-Cornejo:

February is Black History Month - a time to recognize, honor, and celebrate the historic and ongoing contributions the Black community makes to our City.

We kicked off the month celebrating Transit Equity Day on Sunday, February 4th. Set on the birthday of civil rights leader Rosa Parks, Transit Equity Day reminds us that transportation is about more than getting from point A to point B . Transportation is fundamentally about providing people with options, access, and opportunity, and it shapes the social fabric of our cities.

It is no coincidence that the modern civil rights movement began when Rosa Parks claimed her seat on a bus. Her refusal to give up her seat sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and led to the Supreme Court's ruling against segregation on privately owned transportation systems. It is in this spirit and with the same conviction that LADOT remains committed to creating a safe, reliable, dignified transportation system that supports the needs and ambitions of all Angelenos.

That commitment spans and informs all of our operations. LADOT’s fare-free DASH transit and programs like the Universal Basic Mobility pilot, BlueLA, Community-First Engagement, and our language access goals are each driven to ensure that historically underserved communities have access to the transportation services they need to make opportunity a reality.

Throughout February, join us as we highlight these programs as well as celebrations of the locations and people significant to the Black history of Los Angeles. Follow our social media (@ladotofficial) for updates on Black History Month events and guides to exploring iconic landmarks, including museums highlighting Black history, via our fare-free DASH routes.

Atmospheric River Storm Impacts Los Angeles

Over the last few days, a powerful storm brought record rainfall to our region. Starting on Sunday, the city experienced its third wettest 48 hour period on record.

Under the leadership of Mayor Karen Bass, LADOT and the City family worked around the clock to help residents stay safe during the storm. The Emergency Operations Center was activated at Level 2 starting Sunday with the City taking an all hands on deck approach to respond and inform Angelenos of critical information and resources. Thanks to these efforts and the Angelenos who heeded warnings, Los Angeles has emerged from the storm with no fatalities reported within the City.

While the most dangerous part of the storm has passed, hazards remain. Due to saturated hillsides even a small amount of additional water can cause them to become unstable resulting in mudslides. Fallen trees and potholes should be reported to 3-1-1. Never approach downed wires as they may be energized and call 9-1-1 if you encounter downed or dangling wires.

For the safety of all, drivers are urged to steer clear of canyon roads and hillsides. These roads present the highest risk of mudslides and may be subject to sudden closures. Bikers are advised to avoid river paths such as the L.A. River and Ballona Creek until water levels have lowered. A map detailing current closures throughout the city can be accessed online. Stay informed about emergency alerts and updates by visiting the city’s Emergency Management Department website.

LADOT Celebrates Black Innovators in Transportation History - Granville T. Woods

Granville T. Woods was a pioneering American inventor credited with over 50 patented inventions that revolutionized the transportation industry. His groundbreaking contributions included vital safety enhancements like a train communication system and an automatic air brake. He also improved the third rail system, making it possible to power trains underground. Despite facing challenges as a Black inventor in the 1880s, Woods persevered through legal battles to safeguard his inventions.

Today, historians are actively highlighting his remarkable contributions, with notable recognition such as the issuance of a commemorative MetroCard by the NYC subway in 2004.

Throughout the month LADOT will be highlighting the achievements of Black innovators and trailblazers in celebration of Black History Month. Learn about Granville T. Woods and more by visiting our @LADOTofficial social media platforms. 

Hollywood Blvd Virtual Townhall Recap

Last week, LADOT, in collaboration with CD4 Councilmember Nithya Raman and CD13 Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez, organized a virtual community town hall to address proposed safety enhancements for Hollywood Blvd between Gower St and Fountain Ave. The virtual town hall focused on a proposed street design concept aimed at reducing speeding, enhancing pedestrian safety, facilitating safer turns, and providing dedicated space for cyclists and scooter users.

The presentation reviewed the extensive engagement efforts undertaken by the department as well as the feedback received from residents, businesses, and others who rely on traveling along Hollywood Blvd. Nearly 200 people attended the town hall to learn about LADOT's proposed safety measures which were designed to support pedestrians, bicyclists, and enhance access to the Metro B (Red) Line.

The recording of the Hollywood Blvd Town Hall presentation is now available for viewing. If you have any comments or feedback you'd like to share, we encourage residents to email their thoughts to visionzero@lacity.org or visit the project website for more information. 

CicLAvia 2024 Calendar of Events

Get ready to mark your calendars! The official CicLAvia events calendar for 2024 is now available. Since 2010, CicLAvia has been dedicated to expanding open streets and spreading miles of smiles. This year, CicLAvia presents 8 open streets events, inviting you to bike, walk, roll, and explore our city. Join us in celebrating the 50th event at CicLAvia Melrose on Sunday, February 25, where you can discover 4 miles of car-free streets along Melrose Ave.

LADOT Outstanding Performers  Applicants

LADOT takes pride in highlighting team members committed to our Department mission of moving our City forward. This week, the Los Angeles City Council Transportation Committee acknowledged the outstanding contributions of three LADOT employees:

Jaclyn Garcia - Supervising Transportation Planner

Jaclyn Garcia, Supervising Transportation Planner at LADOT, has led the successful implementation of the temporary L.A. Al Fresco Program, providing crucial support to COVID-19-affected businesses. Her efforts have made LA Al Fresco program a standout economic initiative with nearly 3,000 participating restaurants. Under her leadership, the program not only supported businesses but also revitalized the city's streetscape. Due to its overwhelming success, the City has launched a permanent Al Fresco program, streamlining the outdoor dining permit process. Collaborating tirelessly with various city departments, Jaclyn has been instrumental in implementing this initiative, with the final ordinance set to take effect this month. She is celebrated as a standout performer and a valuable member of the LADOT team, dedicated to serving the residents and businesses of Los Angeles.

Tovonni Price -- Lieutenant

Tovonni Price has been with LADOT since 2001, demonstrating exceptional performance and leadership. Starting as a Parking Enforcement officer, she rose through the ranks, leading major initiatives and promotions such as helping lead a major realignment of the Bureau’s enforcement boundaries and establishing productivity guidelines for a variety of patrol districts. As Lieutenant, she ensured core values were upheld, contributing to safer streets. She adeptly manages diverse communities, earning respect from her team and the public. Recently, she assumed the role of Acting Captain, overseeing a large team of 120 Traffic Officers and 8 Senior Traffic Supervisors with grace and effectiveness. Her communication style and responsiveness to stakeholders make her an exemplary leader. Thank you for 23 years of dedicated service to the City.

Ruby Montelongo -- Administrative Clerk

Ruby Montelongo has been a valuable member of the For-Hire Department for over five years, starting as an office trainee and quickly progressing to a full-time Administrative Clerk. Her role involves managing thousands of driver permits across various transportation sectors, showcasing her patience and meticulous attention to detail. Colleagues and clients alike commend her work ethic and willingness to assist others, especially in managing the public counter. Ruby embodies the finest qualities of public service and is celebrated for her contributions to the department. We extend our gratitude for her dedication and are proud to recognize her achievements.  
 

Traffic Officer Testing Opens 2/16

Join the LADOT team and play a vital role in keeping LA moving! LADOT will open testing for Traffic Officers on February 16, 2024. Traffic Officers are an essential part of our City, ensuring a safe and smooth flow of traffic during special events and emergencies. Sign up to be notified when testing opens by searching for “Traffic Officer” and clicking “Subscribe” on the City’s upcoming examinations page. 

Participate in our Community Surveys:

You are the ultimate expert for your community. LADOT wants your input as we plan projects to improve the safety, sustainability, and livability of Los Angeles communities.

BlueLA Crowdsourcing Survey

Your input drives BlueLA powered by Blink Mobility forward. Share your dream destinations & station locations in this quick survey. Let's shape the future of car sharing together!

Transportation Photos of the Week