LADOT Responds to LA Wildfire Emergency 

I’m writing to you today following a week of unprecedented fires that caused immeasurable destruction across Los Angeles City and County. In the face of this tragedy, City employees have sprung into action to assist with evacuation, emergency response, and recovery efforts.

In the first 24 hours of this emergency, LADOT signal crews restored communications to over 1000 traffic signals, including signals in evacuation areas, helping facilitate neighborhood evacuations. Our crews are continuing to respond to reports of downed and damaged traffic signals. You can help by reporting downed or damaged traffic signals and signs to 311 either over the phone, mobile app, or online myla311.lacity.org. LADOT traffic engineers from across the department have also been reassigned to support field operations, including ongoing road closures to allow emergency crews to operate.

Parking enforcement officers are deployed to red flag warning zones ensuring that roads are clear for emergency responders should additional fires break out. Last week, LADOT suspended parking restrictions for non-safety parking violations such as street sweeping and time limits. Parking regulations returned this week except in areas impacted by the Palisades and Hurst fires and within a one block radius of evacuations centers.

Even as we remain vigilant, many of our fellow Angelenos are displaced. There will be many difficult days ahead for those impacted and they will need our support. A list of resources for individuals, families, businesses, workers, and property owners affected by the wildfires is online and two, in-person Recovery Centers have opened and will be available seven days a week. Our Transit services are currently being deployed to assist shuttle evacuees and affected residents to these Recovery Centers so that they can access services and get the support they need.

As we begin this road to recovery, LADOT is here to keep LA moving. 

LA Wildfire Recovery Resources

For individuals and families impacted by the recent wildfires, the City of Los Angeles is offering both in-person and online assistance.

For in-person support, two Disaster Recovery Centers are now open and will remain open 9am - 8pm, seven days a week, for several weeks. The Disaster Recovery Center will support individuals with:

• Lost vital records (birth certificates, death certificates, driver’s licenses, social security documentation) 
• Disaster relief for people with homes and businesses lost or damaged by the fire
• Referrals for mental health counseling and other services

Westside Disaster Recovery Center Location:   
UCLA Research Park West  
10850 Pico Blvd,  
Los Angeles, CA 90064

Eastside Disaster Recovery Center Location:  
Pasadena City College Community Education Center  
3035 E. Foothill Blvd.  
Pasadena, CA 91107

Virtual Remote Interpretation for language translation will be available during operating hours. In-person American Sign language will be available during select time periods. Visit lacity.gov for more information.

For online support, the City's Emergency Management Department has compiled a list of resources for individuals, families, property owners, businesses, and workers, including:

• Applications for FEMA disaster assistance
• CA unemployment benefits application
• Assistance for reconnecting with loved ones
• Tips for wildfire insurance claimants
• Links to apply for tax relief for damaged or destroyed properties   
  Shelters and housing services
• Fire health and safety information
• Mental health resources

Visit lacity.gov for the latest information on how the City is working to respond to the wildfire crisis. For life-threatening emergencies and to report downed power lines, call 911. 

Way to Support Wildfire Relief Effors

If you’re looking for a way to support our communities during this emergency, the City has compiled the following donation and volunteer opportunities:

Financial Support:

California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund: Contributions will go toward the most impacted and the most vulnerable Angelenos who can be overlooked in traditional relief efforts. The fund complements immediate relief and addresses the long-term recovery needs of neighborhoods.

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Hundreds of Los Angeles Firefighters are on the ground around the clock responding to the wildfires. Support LA’s brave firefighters who save lives, protect our homes, and keep our communities safe.

Donation Drop-Off Locations:

The City of Los Angeles has established donation centers for non-perishable food, clothing, toys, toiletries, and other essential items to be distributed to those in need. Please only donate items that are new or good as new.

Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson – It’s Bigger Than Us  
Mon-Sun 10am - 5pm  
4308 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90008

Items requested: Clothing, air mattresses, bedding, toiletries, non-perishable foods

Councilmember Traci Park District Office – Westchester Municipal Building  
Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat-Sun 12pm - 4pm  
7166 West Manchester Ave, Westchester, CA, 90045

Items requested: Individually wrapped items, diapers, personal hygiene products, non-perishable foods, baby food, dog food, water

Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez – North Valley Caring Services Food Pantry  
Mon-Thurs 8:30am - 4pm, Fri 12pm-2pm  
15453 Rayen Street, North Hills, CA, 91343

Items requested: Non-perishable foods, blankets, bottled water, diapers and wipes, microwaves, fresh produce (drop-off fresh produce on Thurs only)

Volunteer Opportunities:

MLK Day of Service Volunteer Festival: LA Works has adjusted MLK Day of Service activities to support communities affected by the wildfires. Join us Monday, January 20, 2025 at the LA Memorial Coliseum.

For additional ways to support, as well advice on avoiding scams and vetting charities, visit lacity.gov/LAstrong. In LA, we are stronger together!  

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Transportation Photos of the Week

LADOT Crews and Traffic Officers respond to the Palisades Fire on January 10, 2025