LADOT Celebrates National Bike Month

Happy National Bike Month!

At LADOT, we are committed to making our streets safer and more accessible so that more people can take part in the joy of bicycling. Whether it’s the dozens of miles of new and improved bike lanes LADOT installs each year, our partnerships with groups like CicLAvia to program events that attract thousands of people from across the region, to our Universal Basic Mobility E-bike Library providing free access to electric bikes in South LA, we are continuously looking for ways to promote and expand bicycling in Los Angeles. The benefits of biking are not limited to health -- many short trips can be made by bicycle to reduce traffic and improve air pollution in our neighborhoods. With technology like e-bikes and new models of bike design, biking and other forms of active transportation are becoming more accessible to a wider range of individuals.

This Bike Month, I invite you to join us in celebrating and embracing the joys of two-wheeled travel! With your continued engagement on projects, we will continue to expand our network, improve our infrastructure, and pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable transportation system for all. 

Solar EV Chargers Power Up South LA Park

LADOT recently installed six solar-powered EV chargers at Slauson Recreation Center, Gilbert Lindsay Recreation Center, and Fred Roberts Recreation Centers in South LA! These chargers are powered entirely by clean energy, using solar panels and battery storage, and are available for anyone to use completely free of charge. Four more chargers will be delivered soon to the South LA Sports Activity Complex and Van Ness Recreation Center.

As part of the Universal Basic Mobility (UBM) Program, LADOT is installing over 115 EV chargers in South LA on street lights, at libraries, and at public parks. This will help ensure that affordable EV charging is available to this historically underserved community and that South LA won’t get left behind in the clean vehicle transition.

LADOT Honors Outstanding Performers

Every month, LADOT celebrates excellence among members of its staff by identifying Outstanding Performers. These are team members who exemplify LADOT values by performing their duties with diligence, professionalism, and distinction. These individuals are then recognized before the Los Angeles City Council Transportation Committee. Here are LADOT’s Outstanding Performers for May:

Austin Kano, Transportation Engineering Associate III

Austin has over 25 years of dedicated service to the City, overseeing the implementation and delivery of numerous transportation safety projects. He has served as a team lead in the Active Mobility section for nearly 8 years and is currently focused on project delivery, providing guidance and support to a team of three Transportation Associate Engineers.

As a member of the LADOT Inaugural Racial Equity Core Team, Austin has demonstrated his commitment to advancing racial equity within the workforce. He has also fostered strong working relationships across various City departments, including the Bureau of Engineering, Street Services, and Street Lighting. 

Pamela Lee, Supervising Transportation Planner II

Pamela Lee has been with DOT for six years. Currently, Pamela leads LADOT efforts for the Alternatives to Armed Enforcement report as well as leading the Vision Zero and Active Transportation planning and engagement assignments. Pamela facilitated Task Force meetings for the Alternatives to Traffic Enforcement, and coordinated this work across various City Departments. She also works closely with Council Offices to implement Vision Zero Safety projects.

Pamela’s leadership and guidance supported the hiring and expansion of the Active Transportation team including the transition of the team to new leadership. Pamela’s knowledge and experience currently has her shaping the future for Vision Zero and First Last Mile planning efforts for the 2028 Olympics. 

Yolanda Elizondo, Parking Operations and Support Division

Yolanda has been a valued staff member for six years in the Parking Operations and Support Division working on the Community Assistance Parking Program (CAPP), providing unwavering support to those she serves. As a CAPP representative, Yolanda attends countless “Connection Days” where she assists unhoused individuals with enrollment into the CAPP program and provides advice on City of Los Angeles parking citations. She takes the opportunity to network with other staff from similar programs to create working partnerships that benefit the City of LA and other jurisdictions.

Yolanda corresponds with thousands of program participants. As the pillar of CAPP, she is always honest and transparent. Yolanda leads by example, treating her team members, program participants, and other staff with respect and dignity.

Honoring Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Each week during this Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we will spotlight staff members at LADOT with AAPI roots. Each has a unique story to tell and plays an integral part in the operations of LADOT to keep our City moving.

Irene Sae Koo

Irene Sae Koo serves as a Senior Management Analyst for the For-Hire Policy and Enforcement Division at LADOT, where she oversees the division and ensures compliance with regulations for all for-hire vehicles and drivers across Los Angeles. Her role involves managing staff and resolving issues from taxi and non-taxi companies throughout the city.

She was born in Taiwan after her family moved from mainland China. Growing up in Taiwan taught her to value freedom, inspiring her to seek career opportunities in the United States.

During her time at LADOT, she has led key projects that have improved the city's transportation policies. Among her achievements is her involvement in the initiation of new mobility projects, such as the dockless program and the transition of the vehicle permit process to online systems, which have improved the division's operational efficiency. Reflecting on her service, Irene said, “I am able to serve and solve the issues for the general public and those who need support immediately.”

She loves Los Angeles for its welcoming nature. “What I love most about LA is its diversity and how it’s open to all people."

Paul Aguilar

Paul Aguilar is a Transportation Engineering Associate III at LADOT. Known for his leadership within the Bridge Improvement Program section of the Interagency Division, Paul ensures that every project meets and exceeds expectations.

Originally from the Philippines, he immigrated to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2013. His journey to the United States was marked by resilience and determination, particularly when he faced the challenge of finding work in a tough economic environment. After being laid off from the eDiscovery industry when his company relocated, he expanded his job search to Los Angeles. "The first job I applied to, a structural steel manufacturer, I was hired! I bought a one-way Greyhound bus fare, and that's how I became a part of LA," he recalled.

Looking back on his path, Paul sees it as an example of the resilience of Filipinos and a story of success that, while still being written, has come a long way.

Paul's pride in his work is evident, especially when discussing projects like the Sixth Street Viaduct. "I am proud that we, at LADOT, connect communities—one project at a time. Being a part of the Sixth Street Viaduct, a legacy and an LA icon for generations to come, makes me excited to see what Angelenos will accomplish next," he shared

Clinton Quan

In the Transit Development Division at LADOT, Clinton Quan plays an important role as a Transportation Engineering Associate working across two sections: Transit Facilities and Transit Technology. His major tasks include managing the e-Boost Mobile Trailers EV project at Sylmar Yard and overseeing the Trillium Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) contract. He also takes care of the Transit Access Pass (TAP) program and the Enhanced Transit Technology Services RFP.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Clinton’s passion for public service was inspired by his family. His father, who immigrated from China, and his mother, who came from Hong Kong, settled in Los Angeles where they built their lives. “My dad worked for the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power and he motivated me to work as a civil servant for the City of Los Angeles. I am a proud Angeleno and I am happy to say that I was born in the City of Los Angeles, I live in the City of Los Angeles and I work for the City of Los Angeles,” he shared.

In his career at LADOT, Clinton has stood out for his dedication. He once won the Young Transportation Engineer Award for his work organizing events and press conferences with the Mayor’s Office. Now in the Transit sector, he manages big projects that improve how people get around LA, like the TAP program and the Landscape Management and Facility Maintenance Services. Speaking of his impact, Clinton emphasized, “I know how important the work that we do is because it affects the lives of millions of people throughout the Los Angeles area, and transportation is something that we use on a daily basis. The LADOT Transit annual ridership is about 10 million!”

Clinton loves Los Angeles for its diversity and the many things to do. He enjoys exploring everything from the neighborhoods of Sherman Oaks to Downtown L.A. "Even though I have lived here almost all of my life, I always find new places to visit, new events to attend and new restaurants to dine in!"

City of Los Angeles Evacuation Preparedness Simulation

Join LADOT and Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez at the City of Los Angeles Evacuation Preparedness Simulation on Saturday, May 18th, from 10 am to 2 pm at Hansen Dam Soccer Fields.

This immersive simulated evacuation scenario will teach you valuable skills to keep you and your loved ones safe during emergencies. From witnessing a live helicopter demonstration to experiencing the urgency of an emergency alert, this event offers a hands-on approach to disaster readiness. Explore essential topics like horse safety, engage with experts at the resource fair, and discover vital resources available to support your evacuation plans. 

CicLAmini comes to Wilmington May 19! 

Join us on Sunday, May 19, from 10 am to 3 pm as the streets of Wilmington transform into a park for the day. The CicLAmini event will connect Wilmington Waterfront Park and Banning Park along 2.25 miles of car-free streets, perfect for jogging, walking, riding, skating, and biking!

This free event, designed to promote a pedestrian-friendly experience, will be filled with plenty of family activities, street games, music, local business engagements, and art and cultural installations that celebrate the spirit of Wilmington.

Come out and experience the joy of a car-free day in the heart of Wilmington. Bring your friends, family, and pets to a safe and engaging environment where the community comes together to play, learn, and connect.  

Emergency Management Department Presents Camp ReadyLA

Get ready, Los Angeles! The City's Emergency Management Department proudly presents the return of Camp ReadyLA: Emer-Gen-Z! Applications are now open for young adults aged 17-22 interested in exploring a career in Emergency Management or City Government.

Camp ReadyLA: Emer-Gen-Z is a free immersive opportunity designed specifically for young leaders that provides a look into the life of an emergency manager. Through a series of engaging workshops, hands-on activities, and interactive sessions, participants will gain invaluable knowledge and skills that can make a real difference in times of crisis.

Applications are now open until Monday, June 3, 2024. Seize this opportunity to be part of a transformative journey toward becoming a future leader in emergency preparedness. If you have any questions, visit the Camp ReadyLA website or email CampReadyLA@lacity.org.

Camp Details:

Date: Monday, July 29 to Friday, August 2, 2024           
Time: Daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM           
Location: City’s Emergency Operations Center, Downtown Los Angeles           
Application Deadline: Monday, June 3, 2024           
Apply Here   

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Transportation Photos of the Week

LADOT staff attended the 2024 National Association of City Transportation Officials Designing Cities Conference in Miami to share best practices on project delivery, design, and community engagement and learn from fellow transportation agencies.