South El Monte is celebrating a major step toward a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly future with the completion of the Merced Avenue Greenway’s south end. This .65-mile project is enhancing mobility in the area and creating a greener, safer, and more resilient community.
At the heart of the Greenway is the San Gabriel Valley’s first sidewalk-level bike path, improving safety and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians. The project also integrates cutting-edge environmental features, including porous concrete and bio-infiltration planters, which help manage stormwater runoff and improve water quality. These elements allow the Greenway to capture and treat an average of 21.5 acre-feet of stormwater annually while infiltrating an estimated 6.47 acre-feet each year.
The transformation goes beyond water management. By removing over 30,000 square feet of asphalt and introducing 3,000 native plants and 133 new trees, the Greenway helps reduce urban heat and support local biodiversity. This investment in green infrastructure demonstrates South El Monte’s commitment to tackling climate change while improving quality of life for residents.
Join the Grand Opening Celebration!
Celebrate this milestone with the City of South El Monte at a special ribbon-cutting event:
📅 Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
⏰ Time: 1 PM – 3 PM
📍 Location: Hayward Way & Merced Ave, South El Monte, CA 91733
🔗 RSVP here: bit.ly/greenwaygrandopening
City officials, project funders, and community members will come together to mark this achievement and explore the new Greenway.
For more details about the Merced Avenue Greenway and the ribbon-cutting event, visit MercedAveGreenway.org or contact program director Amy Wong at amy@activesgv.org.
