Los Angeles County
Landmark LA County project spotlights the effects of violence
LA County residents recount stories of violence, hope, & healing as project spotlights the effects of violence on a diverse group
LOS ANGELES – Starting in the Fall of 2020, the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture and the Los Angeles County Office of Violence Prevention housed in the Department of Public Health embarked on a landmark project to record the intensely personal stories of a diverse group of residents whose lives have been directly affected by violence.
For more than a year, Olga Koumoundouros, Department of Arts and Culture Creative Strategist-Artist in Residence with the Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) enlisted the help of community-based organizations and individuals to identify people willing to share their stories. A total of 100 people from all over Los Angeles County reflecting diverse perspectives spoke in blunt, unsparing language about the terrible physical and psychological toll that violence inflicts on individuals and families.
A selection of these intimate stories – along with photographic portraits of many of the contributors – have now been published in a book, Violence, Hope and Healing in Los Angeles County, which is now available at County libraries and other designated locations. A digital copy of the book along with the remaining stories will be published on the Department of Arts and Culture and the OVP websites.
“I truly hope that by sharing my story,” said Mildred Brown, a participant who experienced years of physical, sexual, and verbal assault, “it will help that fellow person gain confidence, and to know that you are not alone.”
“I am so proud of this cross-sector collaboration between our Department of Arts and Culture and the Office of Violence Prevention,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Holly J. Mitchell. “Thank you to everyone who courageously shared their stories with us. We do not take this brave offering lightly. This project provides policy makers and our communities with the opportunity to learn from the real lived experience behind every story shared, so that we can create stronger systems for prevention and care.”
“The intersection of violence prevention and arts equals healing for survivors and our communities,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, First District. “I thank Olga for developing a way to gather and uplift the stories of survivors from throughout the County who have experienced harm in a cathartic manner. And to the survivors that came forward to be a part of this project, you are incredibly brave. Sharing a time when you experienced vulnerability and fear and turning that into an inspiring message of justice, hope, and healing is a lesson from which we can all benefit and carry with us.”
“I am so grateful to the extraordinary residents who shared their heartache, bravery and hope with us and thank the Department of Arts and Culture for their partnership on this project,,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, director of the LA County Department of Public Health. “These stories communicate the devastating impact of violence on residents from across Los Angeles County, while providing us with a blueprint for how our community can heal and stop the cycle of brutality.”
“The Department of Arts and Culture’s Creative Strategist program places artists, arts administrators, and other creative workers in County departments to develop and implement artist-driven solutions to complex social challenges. We know that artists have an extraordinary power to humanize the data behind policymaking and help us step into another person’s story, as well as provide opportunities for creative healing and community building in meaningful ways. This courageous book is a result of that lens. It reflects the kind of inclusion and representation that comes when County departments enact a cross-sector approach to service,” said Kristin Sakoda, Director, Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture.
‘The strength of this project lies in how it has and is stretching institutional procedural practices so that they can center human voices as they are articulated and expressed,” said Koumoundouros, “so that the established avenue of communication is strengthened not just utilized once but finds a way into the fold of priorities that forms the backbone of community inclusive violence prevention work” “It creates a formality of listening further and a bit more deeply so the details within the high stakes work of violence prevention can be more effectively heard via ongoing connection and trust with our communities most effected.”
“We wanted to hear directly from violence survivors to understand the extent and effect of violence on the lives of our friends, our neighbors, and our communities,” said Andrea Welsing, director of the Los Angeles County Office of Violence Prevention.
Welsing noted that the stories offer compelling evidence of the ways in which racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, poverty, addiction, and systemic failures have helped to perpetuate a culture of violence across communities. In some of the stories recounted here, people caught up in a seemingly endless cycle of violence became violent themselves.
Still, the message is not all grim. “At the same time, these stories confirm that violence is often predictable and preventable, and highlight how we can support prevention and healing,” added Welsing. She said that the OVP will use these stories to guide practices and programs moving forward.
The Creative Strategist-Artist in Residence Program was a LA County Cultural Equity and Inclusion Initiative recommendation that the Board of Supervisors, in a motion authored by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, funded in 2017. Since its inception, the program has explored how arts-based strategies can be used to solve complex civic challenges and make government more equitable.
Arts and Culture pairs a creative strategist with a County department to bring arts-based thinking, methodologies, projects, and approaches to address an issue of equity in partnership with staff. As it advances the cross-sector role of the arts; inter-departmental collaboration; and diversity, equity, and inclusion, the program supports the goals of the Countywide Cultural Policy, which calls for LA County and all its departments to ensure every resident has meaningful access to arts and culture.
The mission of the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture is to advance arts, culture, and creativity throughout Los Angeles County. It provides leadership, services, and support in areas including grants and technical assistance for nonprofit organizations, countywide arts education initiatives, commissioning and care for civic art collections, research and evaluation, access to creative career pathways, professional development, free community programs, and cross-sector creative strategies that address civic issues.
Visit LACountyArts.org, and learn more about the Creative Strategist Program at lacountyarts.org/CreativeStrategist
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
With the help of the American Rescue Plan, the LA County Library and the LA County Internal Services Department is working hard to provide access to the internet and technology for people who need it. Click the links below to learn more about these programs:
You can watch more stories like this on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here.
In Case You Missed It
March is Women’s History Month
This Women’s History Month learn more about LA County’s efforts to improve lives through the Women and Girls Initiative and the Commission for Women. And join LA County in celebration through the LA County Library‘s live virtual programming, booklists, digital resources for all ages, and the Natural History Museum‘s history of women in LA.
At Your Service
Finding Affordable Housing
Looking for affordable housing in Los Angeles County? The Housing Resource Center is a tool to help people list and find affordable, special needs, accessible, and emergency housing within the County.
To learn more visit housing.lacounty.gov, or call (877) 428-8844 to get assistance.
Out and About
Parks After Dark is Back!
Parks After Dark returns for the spring season with FREE activities at 34 LA County Parks. Bring your family and friends and explore all the art and culture activities we have to offer. Dust off your dancing shoes and join us for a night full of music and dance and a variety of free activities for the whole family!
Click here to find a Parks After Dark location near you.
Photo Finish
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Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
From Castaic to Long Beach, from Malibu to Walnut, our dependence on artificial light has created a light dome that disrupts ecosystems, is harmful to human health and separates us from the galaxies that fill our skies. Watch this video to learn about what steps LA County is taking to mitigate this light pollution.
You can watch more stories like this on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here.
In Case You Missed It
Registration Now Open: Step Out | Walk to Stop Diabetes 2024
Register online now to join the American Diabetes Association® in Long Beach for this year’s Step Out® Walk. This fun and meaningful event is a perfect way to join the fight against diabetes, recognize people living with diabetes, and fundraise to support the mission of the American Diabetes Association®.
To learn more, or register to participate, please visit the Step Out Walk website.
At Your Service
Digital Guide to LA County Services
Have a question about an LA County program or service, but don’t know who to contact? Check out the updated, digital Guide to LA County Programs & Services! The Guide to County Services is intended to help residents locate services and explore the departments and agencies that serve them.
Out and About
Calling All Women in Entrepreneurship!
Ready to take your entrepreneurial journey to new heights? Join LA County’s Women and Girls Initiative THIS FRIDAY as they kickstart Women’s History Month with the Women Entrepreneurs Social—an exclusive event designed to empower and equip women entrepreneurs in Los Angeles County.
The Women Entrepreneurs Social will be a dynamic gathering featuring networking opportunities, short presentations by successful female entrepreneurs, and an opportunity for attendees to give an elevator pitch of their businesses. The goal is to create a collaborative environment where women can share insights, build connections, and access valuable resources to advance their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Date: Friday, March 8th, 2024
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall
To learn more, and register to attend, click here.
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Los Angeles County
Ballot-dropoff sites at Metro transit stations & free rides election day
Metro issued a map of its route lines which includes nine locations that have dropoff boxes for ballots. The free rides include buses & trains
LOS ANGELES – On Primary Election Day which is next Tuesday March 5, the Los Angeles area regional transit agency Metro is again offering free public transit rides on Election Day to help voters reach the polls.
Metro issued a map of its route lines which includes nine locations that have dropoff boxes for ballots. The free rides include all Metro buses, trains, bike share and Micro rideshare.
On Election Day – Tuesday March 5 – polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. but the free rides continue until midnight.
The Super Tuesday ballot includes the presidential race, California’s U.S. Senate seat, multiple seats in Congress and many local races and measures.
🇺🇸 Free rides Tuesday to help you reach the polls!
— Metro Los Angeles (@metrolosangeles) March 1, 2024
🗳️ Or drop your ballot at 9 of our stations. See👇🏾
📱 Plan your trip at Google/Apple maps, https://t.co/uQLolAJyCL
ℹ️ More on polling locations etc at https://t.co/xGez2vtKFc pic.twitter.com/NmcnG2aFIl
RIDE FREE ON METRO ON ELECTION DAY TUESDAY!
ballot dropoff at 9 stations http://mtro.la/fw2F50QK2SN
plan trip Google/Apple maps, http://metro.net
polling locations etc http://lavote.gov
Voters can safely and securely drop off their ballots at these Metro station Vote-by-Mail drop boxes:
- El Monte Bus Station
- Harbor Freeway Station
- Harbor Gateway Transit Center
- Hollywood/Western Station
- North Hollywood Station B
- Norwalk Station
- Westlake/MacArthur Park Station
- Wilshire/Vermont Station
- Union Station (East Portal)
Los Angeles County
Connie Norman Trans Center is first voting center in a trans space
Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center prepares to open as a voting place Saturday for Los Angeles County primary voting
By Paulo Murillo | LOS ANGELES – California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Los Angeles City Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky paid a visit to the Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center (CONOTEC) on Thursday morning, joining FLUX, the Unique Women’s Coalition (UWC), and the Human Rights Campaign in commemorating a historic moment.
The center has made U.S. history by becoming the nation’s first Vote Center situated within a Transgender establishment. The center prepares to open as a voting place Saturday for Los Angeles County primary voting.
FLUX’s Queen Victoria Ortega, UWC’s Queen Chela Demuir, Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky, and the Lieutenant Governor marked this milestone by announcing that CONOTEC would open its doors to all Los Angeles County voters from Saturday, March 2, through primary election day on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis expressed, “The opening of the nation’s first transgender voting center today in Los Angeles marks a significant milestone in our efforts to champion equity, inclusivity, and LGBTQA+ rights in California. By providing a safe and affirming space for the transgender community to exercise their fundamental right to vote, we are breaking down barriers and ensuring every Californian has equal access to the ballot box.”
Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky added, “I couldn’t be prouder that L.A.’s Fifth Council District is now home to the first voting center in the Nation located in a transgender facility. As extremists across the country continue their endless attacks on both the LGBT Community and our democracy, Los Angeles must stand as a beacon of hope. I want to thank CONOTEC for opening this voting center and for the critical work they do every day to support the needs of the Los Angeles transgender and nonbinary community.”
California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and LA City Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky joined FLUX, Unique Woman’s Coalition, and Human Rights Campaign at Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center today as it prepares to open Saturday for Los Angeles County primary voting
Queen Victoria Ortega, international president of FLUX, stated, “Fighting to provide a safe and welcoming place for our transgender and non-binary siblings is exactly why the Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center exists. We will continue to work towards equality for all.”
Queen Chela Demuir of UWC echoed, “We have reached out to our transgender community across Los Angeles County, encouraging them to join us to vote here at the Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center. This is our home. This is their home. Everyone is welcome here. Come and cast your ballot and do your civic duty to make your voice heard.”
In Los Angeles County, voters can cast their ballot at any Vote Center, irrespective of their residential address. Dean Logan, Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk, highlighted, “Our vote center model gives us the flexibility to locate vote centers in facilities and communities that give voters options that convey the significance of being heard through the act of voting.”
Voter registration services are available at all vote centers, and voters can drop off their voted mail ballot at any vote center as well.
Brian Michael Smith, actor from 911 Lone Star and Human Rights Campaign Board Member, stated, “The Human Rights Campaign is proud to stand with and assist Queens Victoria and Chela as they do critical work of fighting for Equality for all – without exception. Part of that equality includes having a safe space for voting in your community.”
The Connie Norman Trans Empowerment Center, named in honor of Connie Norman, the ‘AIDS Diva,’ a fearless Transgender and AIDS activist who passed away in 1996, opened on September 10, 2021.
**************************************************************
Paulo Murillo is Editor in Chief and Publisher of WEHO TIMES. He brings over 20 years of experience as a columnist, reporter, and photo journalist.
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The preceding article was previously published by WeHo Times and is republished with permission.
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
The Los Angeles County Registrar/Recorder-County Clerk is prepared for Tuesday’s presidential primary election with a brand-new facility to process ballots.
You can watch more stories like this on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here.
In Case You Missed It
Early Voting Now Open!
119 Vote Centers are now open for you to vote early ahead of the March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election. Vote Centers will be open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM to vote in person.
A full list and map of Vote Center locations is available online at LOCATOR.LAVOTE.GOV.
Voters can visit any location to vote or drop off their ballot.
First-time voters who missed the registration deadline can visit any Vote Center, complete a Conditional Voter Registration, and cast a ballot in this election. Voters can also update their registration information, including their party affiliation, to receive their preferred party’s ballot or request a crossover ballot.
The ballot in this election is extensive and includes contests and candidates from the neighborhood and local levels through state offices, measures, and federal representatives. Voters are encouraged to review their ballot carefully and vote early.
Learn more at plan.lavote.gov.
At Your Service
Free Tax Prep LA
Tax season is here! Start preparing to file your taxes with the help of Free Tax Prep LA. The program aims to educate and provide money-saving tax services, supported by various organizations including the Community Investment for Families Department – City of Los Angeles, Consumer & Business Affairs – Los Angeles County, Koreatown Youth and Community Center, and United Way of Greater Los Angeles. Eligible participants can access cashback tax credits and stimulus payments, potentially totaling up to $10,000, including Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, CalEITC, and federal stimulus payments.
Visit Free Tax Prep LA for more information.
Out and About
Find Arts and Culture Near You!
As the creative capital of the world, Los Angeles County is home to amazing art and cultural treasures! To help LA County community members get involved in local arts and culture experiences, the LA County Department of Arts and Culture created the Arts and Culture Near You Map. In it, you’ll find amazing arts and culture spots all over the County to explore, and you can also add your own favorites—a theater, museum, dance studio, music venue, or an organization where you engage in the arts.
Photo Finish
LA County Library’s Laptop & Hotspot Loan program.
Click here to access more photos of LA County in action.
Los Angeles County
LA County sues Grubhub alleging deceptive business practices
Lawsuit seeks to hold Grubhub accountable for business practices that deceive & overcharge consumers, exploit drivers & restaurants
LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles County filed a lawsuit yesterday against food delivery company Grubhub alleging false and deceptive advertising, misrepresentation and unfair business practices that financially harm consumers, delivery drivers and restaurants.
“This lawsuit sends a clear message: Los Angeles County will not tolerate businesses that deceive consumers, take advantage of restaurants, and exploit the drivers who work hard to provide a valued service,” said Los Angeles County Board Chair Lindsey P. Horvath. “Our County Counsel and Department of Consumer and Business Affairs are standing up for consumers and businesses by fighting these unfair practices.”
The lawsuit alleges that Grubhub engages in the following unfair and deceptive business practices and seeks statewide relief to stop these violations:
Harm to Consumers
- Deceptively advertises that consumers can place delivery orders online “for free” but then charges consumers fees on those orders at check-out.
- Uses bait-and-switch tactics to lure consumers with a flat, unqualified price for delivery upfront while adding deceptively labeled “service,” “small order” and “driver benefits” fees at checkout. In some cases, the costs of the fees exceed the cost of the food item ordered.
- Misrepresents restaurant search results on its apps and websites, telling consumers that the search results are based on relevance to the consumer’s query (e.g., “Chinese food near me”), when in fact, the results and rankings are based in part on how much restaurants have paid Grubhub for placement.
Harm to Drivers
Grubhub misrepresents the qualities, characteristics and scope of the “Driver Benefits Fee,” which Grubhub charges consumers in connection with Proposition 22. Grubhub deceptively implies that the fee provides healthcare benefits to drivers and that consumers no longer need to tip their drivers because “they don’t have to depend on tips.”
Harm to Restaurants
Grubhub deceptively and unilaterally charges restaurants for customer refunds, which Grubhub issues without restaurants’ consent, and without verifying whether the customer or the restaurant was responsible.
“The deceptive and excessive fees charged by Grubhub at checkout blatantly undermine our goal of promoting a fair marketplace where businesses, employees and consumers can thrive,” said Rafael Carbajal, Director of the LA County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs. “These practices inflict financial harm on LA County’s residents, restaurants and workers and are unacceptable while so many of them struggle to make ends meet.”
Consumers, drivers and restaurants who believe they have been harmed by Grubhub’s actions are invited to share their experiences with DCBA by emailing: [email protected], filing online at https://iddweb.isd.lacounty.gov/dca_ecomplaint/ or calling 800-593-8222.
The lawsuit, filed by Los Angeles County Counsel Dawyn R. Harrison on behalf of the people of the State of California in response to complaints from consumers and restaurant owners, seeks injunctive relief to stop the unfair and deceptive business practices, and civil penalties. County Counsel’s Affirmative Litigation and Consumer Protection Division has retained the law firm of Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll PLLC to assist on this case.
“Our lawsuit seeks to hold Grubhub accountable for their unfair and deceptive business practices that deceive and overcharge consumers, exploit drivers, and unfairly short-change restaurants on order refunds,” Harrison said. “My office is committed to protecting County workers and residents and holding businesses accountable for violations of consumer and worker protection laws.”
The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, and a copy of the complaint is available here: LA County Grubhub Complaint-Redacted.pdf.
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
Lights, camera, nostalgia! The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in the heart of Los Angeles’ Miracle Mile is the perfect destination for movie buffs with special exhibitions and a permanent collection taking viewers behind the scenes into how cinema magic is made.
You can watch more stories like this on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here.
In Case You Missed It
Calling All Property Owners and Managers
If you have a vacant residential building or apartment units available, there is a fast and simple way to find qualified renters. LeaseUp is the go-to service for people leasing properties across LA County. LeaseUp is an initiative from the PATH non-profit organization that partners with service providers and property owners, developers, and managers in order to quickly fill vacancies and help those at risk of homelessness find and maintain housing.
At Your Service
Grants Available for First-time Homebuyers
The Department of Consumer and Business Affairs and LA County Center for Financial Empowerment has launched the County of Los Angeles Greenline Home Program which aims to tackle the legacy of redlining. The goal is to empower and uplift economically marginalized communities. $35,000 grants will be available for first-time homebuyers living in LA County.
To learn more about eligibility requirements visit dcba.lacounty.gov/greenline.
Out and About
Rise, Reclaim, Restore
Teens are invited to join the LA County Department of Public Health at the Rise, Reclaim, Restore Youth Mental Health Summit. Through engaging workshops and interactive activities, these summits will equip young people with the tools to navigate their mental well-being, support their friends, and become leaders in their schools. Together, we will explore strategies for self-care, coping mechanisms, and building resilience.
Youth who attend will be eligible for raffle prizes, freebies, and community service hours! Click here to learn more.
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Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
LA County’s state of emergency on homelessness is one year old. This seismic shift has accelerated service delivery, cut red tape, and sparked critical change for LA County and our communities. Watch this video to learn more about how LA County is charting a new course to end homelessness.
To learn more about LA County’s response to the homeless emergency, visit homeless.lacounty.gov/emergency/year-one/.
You can watch more stories like this on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here.
In Case You Missed It
Make Your Plan to Vote By Mail – Register by February 20!
The March 5th Presidential Primary Election is quickly approaching, and we want to make sure you’re ready to make your voice heard. This year, the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk has made it easier than ever to be a voter.
Skip the lines and make your plan to Vote by Mail today.
It’s fast, easy, and convenient to Vote by Mail:
- Register to vote by February 20th to receive your Vote by Mail ballot. Have you moved? Are you new to L.A. County? Will this be your first time voting? Update your voter registration here.
- Drop your ballot off in the mail or at an Official Ballot Drop Box. Look out for your ballot in the mail. When you receive it, fill it in, sign it, and drop it off at a mailbox on your way to work, on your daily walk, or when dropping the kids off at school. You can also drop it off at any Ballot Drop Box near you.
- Securely track your ballot with the Where’s My Ballot? tool. Hesitating to Vote by Mail because you want to make sure your vote is counted? The Where’s My Ballot? tool will maintain your privacy and track your ballot every step of the way. Track your ballot here.
When you Vote by Mail, you ensure that work, school, long lines, or a bad commute on Election Day won’t stop your ballot from being counted. Make your plan to vote today!
February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month
February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, and the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control has opportunities for pet owners to spay and neuter their pets at a reduced cost.
To see if you qualify for a reduced-cost voucher, send an email to: [email protected] or call (562) 345-0321.
Remember, spaying and neutering your pets are required by law in LA County.
To learn more about the Department of Animal Care and Control visit: animalcare.lacounty.gov.
At Your Service
Misfortune & Calamity Tax Relief
If your home was damaged by the recent flooding and mudslides, you may be eligible for tax relief. To qualify, you must file an application with the Assessor’s Office within 12 months from the date the property was damaged or destroyed, and the loss must exceed $10,000 of the current market value.
To learn more, visit assessor.lacounty.gov/tax-relief/disaster-relief.
Out and About
Celebrate Black History Month
Celebrate Black History Month with Los Angeles County at one of many events happening throughout the County. We also encourage you to join us in a month-long tribute to the trailblazers who have influenced our community and the world.
For more information, or to find an event near you, click here.
Photo Finish
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Los Angeles County
Erosion and storm damage to close PCH in Malibu nightly
Full closure of PCH in Malibu nightly 6PM-7AM or later until further notice due to erosion. Check traffic app/website before driving
LOS ANGELES – Officials from Caltrans District 7 in Los Angeles and the City of Malibu announced that the Pacific Coast Highway, (PCH) California Highway 1 from Sycamore Canyon Road in the City of Malibu to Las Posas Road in Ventura County will be closed to traffic “until further notice” from 6 p.m. to at least 7 a.m. daily “until further notice.”
According to CalTrans, significant erosion and storm damage from the back to back atmospheric river events coupled with heavy rainfall and high tide wave action damaged sections of PCH’s ocean side shoulder.
A spokesperson for the agency acknowledged that more expected storms is likely to further impact the damaged sections of the roadway.
“Caltrans plans to install k-rails to block off the righthand ocean side lane and begin emergency steps to stabilize the collapsed slope,” the agencs said. “A Caltrans inspector must assess the damage each morning and determine when it’s safe to reopen.”
Once PCH does reopen each morning, it will likely be limited to two lanes in both directions, as “crews will shift lanes to the land side.”
The City of Malibu released a statement noting:
Full closure of PCH nightly 6PM-7AM or later, Sycamore Cyn – Las Posas until further notice due to erosion. Check traffic app/website before driving
All lanes of PCH in both directions will be closed nightly 6:00 PM to 700 AM (or later) from Sycamore Canyon Rd to Las Posas Road in Ventura County until further notice due to erosion of ocean side shoulder from high tides and storm damage, and more expected storms. Reopening times may vary based on high tides or storm conditions. Motorists should use alternate routes.
Caltrans plans to install k-rails to block off the righthand ocean side lane and begin emergency steps to stabilize the collapsed slope. A Caltrans inspector must assess the damage each morning and determine when it’s safe to reopen. Crews will shift lanes to the land side to provide two lanes in both directions. Watch for reduced speed limit signs, and workers and work vehicles in the road. Under California law, traffic violation fines are doubled in construction zones.
Los Angeles County
Chair of LA County Supervisors announces storm recovery efforts
Disaster assistance programs are not guaranteed, so residents and businesses are encouraged to continue working with their insurance carriers
LOS ANGELES – As Los Angeles County begins to support residents with their individual recovery efforts following the recent storms, Lindsey P. Horvath, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, wants to help connect impacted community members to recovery resources and activities.
“As we begin the recovery process, Los Angeles County is here to support the renters, homeowners, and businesses impacted by the storm,” said Horvath. “No one is alone in navigating this process, and the County is here to help ensure our communities are connected to the resources they need. We came together to stay safe, and we’ll do the same through our recovery process.”
The first step in the process is for individuals and businesses to complete a survey to answer preliminary questions regarding any damage that was sustained from the recent storms. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) will work directly with the County’s 88 cities to analyze this information and validate what is reported.
This survey is intended for information gathering purposes and will be used to determine if the County is eligible for various disaster assistance programs based on the total amount of damages reported Countywide.
Disaster assistance programs are not guaranteed, so residents and businesses are encouraged to continue working with their insurance carriers while this information is collected.
The public can access the Damage Collection Survey at https://recovery.lacounty.gov/february-2024-winter-storm/. The County’s Recovery page for the 2024 storms will serve as a resource hub for all post-disaster information.
Residents are encouraged to visit the website regularly for the most up-to-date information regarding recovery activities. For assistance in completing the survey, residents can call 2-1-1.
The LA County Assessor’s Office is also here to help through Misfortune & Calamity Tax Relief. Learn more at https://assessor.lacounty.gov/tax-relief/disaster-relief.
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