Downtown Glendora became a little slower and safer this week as part of a new demonstration project made possible by the Metro Los Angeles Open Streets program.
The temporary "Glendora Village Crosswalk Safety Improvements" project includes mid-block crosswalks, curb extensions, and a pedestrian safety island. In tandem, these new elements are designed to improve the walkability of Glendora's downtown village shopping district, located a few blocks away from the City's future Metro L Line Station.
The design of the project was completed by Alta Planning. Demonstration materials procurement, public engagement, and evaluation are being led by ActiveSGV, and California native plant selection by Amigos de los Rios.
Over the past few years, Glendora has hosted several demonstration projects. In 2021 the City temporarily redesigned Glendora Avenue, added two pedestrian plazas on Meda Street in the downtown business district, and upgraded a popular parklet program to support local food-serving businesses.
The latest project utilizes heavy-duty concrete planters to shorten mid-block crosswalks, and wheel stops to provide pedestrians with a 'safety island' and high-visibility striping. The planters were filled with a California native blooming plant - Abutilon palmeri (Indian Mallow) - a tough shrub that loves hot conditions.
According to Glendora Transportation Manager Steven Mateer, "Glendora Village is the heart and soul of our community, and the City wants to work towards making our streets accessible and safe for everyone."
Glendora's latest 'quick-build' is the first of an array of "Slower, Safer SGV" demonstration projects across the San Gabriel Valley facilitated by the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments and Active San Gabriel Valley. Over the next six months, the Cities of Baldwin Park, Montebello, El Monte, and South Pasadena are expected to follow suit with their own street safety projects.
Glendora residents and visitors will be able to experience the new design for at least a few months and provide feedback by taking the project survey: www.surveymonkey.com/r/VillageCrosswalks.
