As if Whittier and its neighboring cities are not already dealing with heavy traffic, Los Angeles County Public Works has just announced major construction coming to Colima Road. Local communities, such as Hacienda and Rowland Heights, City of Industry, and Whittier, may be impacted by new construction aimed at alleviating traffic congestion. This May, drivers may encounter roadwork along the extensive stretch of Colima Road, starting at Halliburton Road. Construction will be conducted on workdays during peak traffic hours from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
This construction addresses the heavy traffic drivers encounter while driving through the hills. LA County proposes widening the road by adding a third lane to alleviate car congestion. Adding a third lane will enhance mobility and facilitate faster transportation for all types of motor vehicles, from cars to transit buses. The county plans to add these additional lanes by narrowing the median and parkway. The project also plans to beautify its landscape and narrow these sections.
A new and controversial addition coming with this project is the expansion of bike lanes. Previously, Colima Rd did not have a large enough lane for its cyclists, creating a hazard for cyclists and drivers alike. The county plans to address this safety issue by expanding bike lanes. Resident Mel Anne feels strongly about the upcoming addition, “We do not need bike lanes!” This new feature sparked conflicting opinions, both in support of and in opposition to the necessity of expanding bike lanes. Citizen Ramon Ramierez agrees these lanes will provide safety for cyclists and drivers and alleviate congestion. “I’d rather them have their lane, then them hogging a full lane.”
Pavement restoration and traffic signal upgrades are expected, along with street widening. While this may be necessary for easing traffic flow, the project does not address all the concerns of local residents. Recurring concerns include advocating for cell phone towers on the hill and new worries about increased congestion due to the addition of the third lane into Whitter. John Doe, a local commuter, pointed out the discrepancy, ” When it’s completed, and you’re headed into Whittier, which will still be two lanes, the gridlock of three lanes merging into two lanes is not predicted. Going to be a nightmare getting over the hill into Whittier.”
This project is expected to take three years, with a projected end date of May 2028, which may be subject to change. Drivers can be assured that one lane in each direction will remain open during the construction period. Construction is scheduled to begin this May.
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