EV Chargers and UBM

LADOT’s Universal Basic Mobility (UBM) program to expand transportation options and opportunities for Angelenos recently hit another major milestone with the installation of six solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) chargers at three Recreation and Parks facilities in South LA.

In addition to supporting EV-adoption, these chargers minimize their environmental impact by operating with solar panels and battery storage. What's more, they are available for anyone to use, completely free of charge! This accessibility underscores our dedication to making sustainable transportation options available to all residents. And we aren’t done yet - LADOT and project partners with the Bureau of Street Lighting are in the process of installing a total of 115 EV chargers on street lights, at libraries, and in public parks.

Our award winning Universal Basic Mobility (UBM) Program is powered by a combination of state grants and local investment, and EV Charging is just one component of this effort to expand access to affordable, safe, and reliable transportation. The UBM Mobility wallet provides a subsidy for low-income residents so that they can access jobs, medical appointments, educational opportunities, and meet their monthly transportation needs. Partnerships with Los Angeles Trade Technical College and the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator provide job training programs to prepare our local workforce with applicable skills in EV maintenance and manufacture. And our recently launched E-bike lending library allows participants to borrow electric bicycles at no-cost, greatly reducing car dependence within the community.

Together, these efforts move our city’s transportation system to a more sustainable and equitable future. I invite you to learn more about UBM and related programs by visiting our website. 

New Bike Lanes and Speed Humps Promote Safety and Connectivity in Lincoln Heights

Exciting developments are underway in Lincoln Heights as new bike lanes and speed humps have been completed on Lincoln Park Ave. These improvements are designed to make the neighborhood more accessible and safer for residents and cyclists.

The newly installed bike lanes on Lincoln Park Ave, Flora Ave, and Sierra St are part of a broader initiative to create an active transportation network in the east Lincoln Heights area. This network will be further enhanced with a future bike route on Mercury Ave and comprehensive wayfinding signage, making it easier for residents to navigate the area.

These bike lanes form a crucial corridor linking key local destinations. Cyclists can now enjoy a seamless route from Lincoln Park and the bike lanes on Mission Rd at the south end of the project, passing through Lincoln High School, Debs Regional Park, Rose Hill Recreation Center, and various residential neighborhoods. The route will ultimately connect to the Huntington Dr bike lanes at the north end, creating a continuous and convenient path for commuters and recreational riders.

The overall project includes:

• Bike lanes on Lincoln Park Ave between Mission Rd and Flora Ave.
• Bike lanes on Flora Ave between Lincoln Park Ave and Sierra St.
• Bike lanes on Sierra St between Flora Ave and Mercury Ave.
• Sharrows on Mercury Ave between Sierra St and Huntington Dr. 
• Comprehensive wayfinding signage throughout the area.

In addition to the bike lanes, speed humps have been installed to enhance safety by calming traffic. These measures are designed to create a safer and more enjoyable environment for all road users.

With these new developments, residents of Lincoln Heights can look forward to a more connected and accessible community, making it easier to commute to local parks, schools, and recreational centers. This project not only promotes healthier transportation options but also strengthens the community by linking important local destinations.

Wilmington Celebrates Car-Free Fun at CicLAmini!

Thousands of Angelenos came out on Sunday to enjoy 2.25 miles of car-free streets connecting Wilmington Waterfront Park and Banning Park. CicLAmini offers a more pedestrian-oriented experience, and those in attendance got to enjoy various activities throughout the route.

Participants engaged in jogging, walking, skating, and riding, along with street games, local business engagements, and cultural activities. They also connected with city services and learned about local community organizations.

CicLAvia continues to bring neighborhoods to life, allowing Angelenos to see their city from a new perspective. LADOT is proud to sponsor and participate in these events that promote health, connectivity, and celebrate our city's community spirit.

Now, mark your calendars because CicLAvia will be celebrating its 53rd event in South LA on Western Ave on June 23rd. We look forward to seeing you there!

Learn more about CicLAvia. 

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.

Halina Do-Linh

Halina Do-Linh serves as a Data Analyst in the Commercial Rideshare and Mobility Division at LADOT, where she leverages data across several projects to help teams make data-informed decisions. In just six months at LADOT, she has made significant contributions to improving transportation in Los Angeles.

Halina's connection to the community is rooted in her family's story. Her father and his family immigrated from Vietnam, bringing with them a cultural heritage. One of her favorite memories is of her bà nội (grandmother) cooking chả giò to sell in their neighborhood. "This act of using food to not only supplement their income but to share culture resonates with me and is why I am always on the lookout for Vietnamese restaurants in LA- especially when I'm craving bún chả giò” she shared.

In her short time at LADOT, Halina has demonstrated her commitment to using data to drive improvements in the city. "I've only been at LADOT for six months, but I am proud to be part of a City department that is eager to utilize the copious amount of data we collect to improve transportation in LA," she said. One of her recent projects involved analyzing trip deployment data of scooters with the Dockless team to assess deployment quotas in special operating zones. Her work helps ensure that transportation options are deployed to meet the needs of the community.

When asked what she loves most about Los Angeles, Halina mentioned the food and the sense of community. "All the food and the community that comes with it!" she exclaimed. 

Kien Nguyen

Kien Nguyen serves as a Transportation Engineering Associate in the Interagency Permit Plan Review section at LADOT. In this role, he reviews citywide worksite traffic control plans, traffic signal plans, and signing/striping plans. Collaborating with various agencies such as BOE, StreetsLA, LACDPW, Caltrans, and adjacent cities, as well as numerous internal sections, Kien works to enhance Los Angeles' transportation infrastructure and ensure safer, more accessible streets for all.

Born to parents who fled Vietnam in 1979, Kien was influenced by their determination in the face of war. "Their resilience in the face of war, turmoil, and profound loss coupled with the constant drive to move forward has been a source of inspiration for me," he shared.

After graduating from UC Irvine, he moved to LA for its diversity and culture. "I was attracted to the diversity, celebration of cultures, and the exciting opportunity to create my own path in a new city," he explained. This move marked the beginning of his career at LADOT.

One of Kien's accomplishments at DOT is an example of his commitment to improving the city. "I am proud of one of my first projects that provided 117 customized ‘no idling’ signs to remind bus and truck drivers not to idle their vehicles beyond five minutes citywide," he recounts. This initiative focused on areas near schools, hospitals, child and senior care facilities, and local neighborhoods, reduced pollution, and improved the health and quality of life in these vulnerable areas. "It made me realize that my work from here on out would impact lives every day."

What Kien loves most about Los Angeles is its people and diverse cultures. "The celebration of diverse cultures, foods, entertainment, sports, and a general love of life is electrifying," he said. He sees Los Angeles as a city that moves forward even in tough times, much like his parents did. "There’s no place quite like Los Angeles."  
 

Andy Lam

Andy Lam, a Management Assistant at LADOT, is a member of the Parking Operations and Support Division and helps oversee the Department's Community Assistance Parking Program (CAPP). This program is dedicated to assisting the unhoused population with parking citations, making an impact on one of the city's most vulnerable communities.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Andy is inspired by his family's journey. His parents were refugees from Vietnam who made their way to Los Angeles. "Thinking about the things that my family had to go through and the sacrifices they made to get here keeps me going," he said. His gratitude drives his commitment to make a difference. "I hope to make them proud as I continually grow as a person and advance in my career," he added.

Working with the CAPP team is a pride for him. "I am proud of being on a team full of people that work hard every day with one of the City's most vulnerable populations," he shared. He recognizes that small acts can make a big difference. "Even if it is just helping them with something that might sound small, I know that the team is able to make a big impact in the lives of our participants and the community," he emphasized.

What Andy loves most about Los Angeles is its variety and accessibility. "We have everything from beaches and mountains, to museums and theme parks. And you can't forget the food. It feels like there is something for everyone," he remarked.

National Police Week

This week, LADOT Traffic Officer Roberto Lopez participated in the National Police Week ceremony in Washington, DC. National Police Week honors the men and women who serve our communities, culminating in National Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.

National Peace Officers Memorial Day was signed into law by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 as a day to pay tribute to police officers who have died or been injured in the line of duty. This year’s event included a 5K benefit run, a wreath laying ceremony, a candlelight vigil, and a conference for the surviving families and co-workers of fallen police officers. 

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.