Celebrating Women's History Month

This month we celebrate Women’s History Month – a time to recognize and honor women both past and present for their contributions and accomplishments.

Women's History Month is itself an example of women coming together to support one another and advocate for themselves. It traces its roots back to a local Women’s History Week celebration that inspired a coalition of women’s rights groups to lobby for national recognition. Over time, it evolved into a month-long observance, officially recognized by the U.S. government in 1987 dedicated to highlighting the achievements and struggles of women across various fields and cultures.

In recognition of this Women's History Month, I'm proud to announce that this Spring, LADOT will publish its Gender Equity Action Plan which will identify 36 total actions that reflect the greatest challenges and barriers to gender equitable travel: efficiency, safety and comfort, and affordability. We will also commemorate Women's History Month by recognizing the achievements of women who have made a difference in transportation. Stay tuned to our social media and this newsletter for stories of the women past and present who have overcome incredible odds to improve the way we move.

🚦 Signal Activations of the Week

Council District 4: Los Feliz        
LADOT and Council District 4 recently celebrated the activation of three new left turn signals at the intersection of Los Feliz and Vermont. This intersection serves as a crucial access point to landmarks such as the Greek Theater and the Griffith Park Observatory. With the addition of these signals, LADOT is responding to a specific need voiced by the community to improve safety and traffic flow at this intersection.

Council District 3: Woodland Hills        
New safety upgrades have been implemented on Ventura Boulevard, including improved crosswalk treatments and a new pedestrian hybrid beacon at Ponce Ave as well as a new full traffic signal at Royer Ave. Pedestrian-activated flashing beacons can be installed at locations where traditional traffic signals are not appropriate for use. They are a proven safety device that alerts drivers to pedestrians in the roadway, resulting in calmer and safer streets for all along Ventura Blvd.

Council District 2: Van Nuys        
A new left turn phasing signal has been installed at the intersection of Woodman Pl & Woodman Ave in Van Nuys. This new signal helps improve safety, signal timing, and traffic flow in the affected area.

Los Angeles Sapphire Award Recognizing Over 40 Years of Dedicated Service

LADOT recently presented Sapphire Awards to two staff members with over forty years of service, honoring their invaluable contributions. Their dedication has been instrumental in shaping our transit network and fostering livable, sustainable communities for Angelenos to enjoy. 

Patricia Barker, Senior Transportation Investigator  

Patricia Barker holds a remarkable 51-year tenure with the City, where she currently serves as Senior Transportation Investigator overseeing various passenger transportation services including private ambulances, buses, and public transit. Her journey began as a civilian Parking Control Checker with the LAPD before transitioning to LADOT in 1985. Despite an early aspiration for law enforcement, her path shifted due to asthma.

Throughout her career, she has witnessed transformative changes in workplace policies and societal norms, including the introduction of paid maternity leave. She also recalls the lifting of gender barriers in traffic direction, which she found both amusing and empowering.

We honor Patricia Barker for her unwavering dedication and pivotal role in shaping the transportation landscape of Los Angeles for over five decades, as she continues to play a crucial part in moving LA forward.

Elton Louie, Signal System Supervisor II       

Elton Louie has had an eventful career within the city, currently serving as the Signal System Supervisor II at LADOT's TSR/Maintenance Division in Field Operation. His journey began in 1977 as a Steam Plant Operator with the Department of Water and Power before transitioning to LADOT in 1982 as a Traffic Signal Electrician. Over time, his career path unexpectedly aligned with his electronic background, eventually leading him to his current supervisory role.

During his time at LADOT, Elton has witnessed significant changes within the City, directly impacting his division's work. Throughout his tenure, Elton has navigated various challenges, including staffing shortages and the loss of trainers, which have impacted the division's operations. Despite these hurdles, he remains focused on driving progress and acknowledges the supportive leadership in his division. We thank Elton for his outstanding service and commitment to excellence within the City.

LADOT Celebrates Women in Transportation History - Mary Riggin

Happy Women's History Month! Safety in transportation has always been a crucial driver of innovation. This month, we celebrate Mary Riggin, a trailblazing woman who, in 1890, patented one of the first railway safety gates. While some safety gates had been in use prior to Riggin’s invention, her patent aimed to both improve upon and standardize the devices. Not much is known about Riggin’s life, and she did not file any more patents. But her effect on the transportation industry can be felt to this day!

Ready for Reseda: Riding, Rolling, Relaxing

Join LADOT this Sunday, March 17th for Ready for Reseda, a celebration presented by LADOT and powered by CicLAvia, showcasing the recent transportation safety improvements along Reseda Boulevard. This free event will feature guided group bike rides, highlighting the new protected bike lanes and additional safety features, along with music, games, food trucks, and more. Come discover the enhancements and enjoy a safer, more vibrant Reseda Boulevard!

Traffic Advisory: Academy Awards

Please be advised that the Academy Awards will be taking place near Hollywood and Highland this Sunday, March 10th. As the event approaches, we encourage you to plan your travels in the area accordingly and rely on the guidance provided by our Traffic Officers and Special Traffic Operations team regarding closures and detours.

Award shows contribute to the unique charm of Los Angeles. Amidst the excitement, managing the detours and street closures that affect Angelenos requires exceptional teamwork. We extend our sincere appreciation to our LADOT staff, whose dedication and hard work help ensure the success of these events.

LADOT Speed Hump Program Opens March 21

LADOT is pleased to announce that the next application period for the Residential Speed Hump Program will open on Thursday, March 21 at 9:00 AM. Residents are encouraged to visit our website for updated information on the application process. Due to anticipated high demand, we advise applicants to submit their requests promptly when the window opens to maximize their chances of consideration. Thank you for your interest in enhancing safety in our City through the Residential Speed Hump Program, and we look forward to receiving your applications!

Participate in our Community Surveys:

You are the ultimate expert for your community. LADOT wants your input as we plan projects to improve the safety, sustainability, and livability of Los Angeles communities.

Feedback Survey: Hollywood Blvd Design Proposal

Since August last year, LADOT has engaged with residents, businesses, and stakeholders along Hollywood Boulevard to enhance traffic safety and accessibility. Based on community input, a proposed design for Hollywood Blvd from Gower St to Lyman Pl has been developed. Share your thoughts on the design by taking our quick 3-minute survey.

BlueLA Crowdsourcing Survey

Your input drives BlueLA powered by Blink Mobility forward. Share your dream destinations & station locations in this quick survey. Let's shape the future of car sharing together!

Transportation Photos of the Week