This story is not political, nor has as its intent the notion to have people think that it is—from a layperson’s perspective, it’s important to understand the magnitude of the sustainability of our way of life in the Golden State, and how to deal with the complex changes required to maintain our current quality of life.

Can the 1 trillion miles driven annually per year, grow into 400 trillion miles? Simply put—yes.

The growth in the number of people, the number of cars, and the number of drivers would generate astronomical numbers. (Not that we don’t already have them currently).

What and how can we stop this trend in our reliance on the use of cars, ease traffic, decrease carbon emissions, and improve the quality of our lives here? First some background:

Los Angeles County Profile

Millions of gallons of sparkling seawater stream in and out of a 367 acre tidal basin in the center of green and tan wetlands. The result is a gorgeous inland bay, and a vigorous new community of birds and sea creatures. Completed in 2006 with the opening of the inlet; now only five years later this fragile ecosystem is thriving.

Personally, living in this area for quite some time, witnessing its transformation from a ragged coastal stretch studded with oil rigs, to a sunny inland bay teaming with birds has been remarkable. Even more amazing, this rare refuge is just a blink away from the busy world of Huntington Harbor and Pacific Coast Highway.

Endangered birds like the California least terleast tern and the western snowy plovern and the western snowy plover now have nesting sites here. Halibut, scallops, small sharks, rays and the endangered California brown pelican now call this urban refuge home.

But it wasn’t an easy fight….

The project cost $147 million and created a home for more than 200 bird species in a 1200 acre restoration that was the largest ever undertaken in Southern California. The Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles provided funding to offset the damage caused by the Bolsa Chica Wetlands expansion. Like any worthwhile endeavor, the project succeeded because community activists and environmentalists garnered forces for their community and would not give up until their dream became a reality.

Henceforth, began a 30 year struggle that culminated in the opening of the ocean inlet. Quite remarkably, its a fascinating history of opposing interests.

In 1899, the Bolsa Chica Gunclub closed off a natural inlet by building an ocean barrier to improve duck hunting. Also, to muddy the waters (no pun intended), various oil developments and WWII artillery bunkers further destroyed the Wetlands delicate eco-systems which practically almost irrevocably destroyed the vast open space.

Lastly, with the building of marinas and huge housing developments–the Bolsa Chica Wetlands moniker belied the reality of the current deterioration of this precious nature reserve.

And to make matters worse, all of these developments collided with both community activists and the friends of the native Gabrelienos Tongvas Indian tribe.

To ameliorate this blight and to restore the Bolsa Chica Wetlands to its original grandeur–eight state and federal agencies including the California State Lands Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Game became involved in its much needed massive restoration.

Today, you can enjoy a closeup view of the entire effort–a small parking lot on PCH has a pedestrian bridge across Inner Bolsa Bay, which is joined by a path along the western edge of the tidal basin where you’re able to see terns and plovers; and the endangered Belding Savannah sparrow–along with great views of the whole basin.

Tours come in a variety of times and lengths with docent guides and birders available. They’re perfect for both school and scout projects.

The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve runs from Warner Avenue to Seapoint Avenue and is open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset. The Bolsa Chica Wetlands Interpretive Center is at 3842 Warner Avenue at the southeast corner of PCH and Warner. They have a gamut of the Bolsa Chica Ecological reserve background information.and history There’s also a parking lot on the east side of PCH, a mile south of Warner.

Directions: From the 405 or 22 freeways take the Bolsa Chica exit south to Warner Avenue. Turn right on Warner to PCH. Turn left at PCH.

Every new proposed project, including any zoning changes or amendments, variance alterations, exemptions from building codes, building expansions or even any alternate use that will contravene Los Angeles’ General Plan, LA’s ultimate planning guide–which codifies standard building and zoning guidelines to make order of our planning and development procedures into an understandable, coherent, logical and legal way.

Then that serves as a method for all new development and changes to go through “CEQA” aka the California Environmental Quality Act.

Even Los Angeles’ Master General Plan itself, is required to be reevaluated every few years to determine its current relevancy, because as time passes and things change–including but not limited to population growth, the need for new and improved building and zoning amendments, newly identified environmental hazards, overcrowding, density issues–which include our areas buildings heights, sizes, scope and its impact upon our traffic patterns and congestion, land uses, neighborhood compatibility, and LA’s migration and growth patterns–they all fall within Los Angeles’ Master General Plan.

All of these processes while inter and intra dependent, (Los Angeles Master Planning, CEQA and our Zoning), must also change to meet current realities as things remain fluid. Especially in the Metropolis of Los Angeles.

Nothing is static, especially change.

Here, every new, old, and even proposed changes to inside uses of existing structures into something else, is not immune from the legal process of LA’s Planning and Environmental review; and therefore must be submitted for review, as codified by California Statute, which then requires an initial study that is transparent and open to determine how it affects our environment, the surrounding community, traffic, air and other pollution, and our overall quality of life.

After public comments are heard and duly noted for the record, the project’s scope is analyzed via an objective California review–pursuant to civic, State and Federal compatibility standards which at all times are subject to change and as well, lead to its original plans recommended for it to be substantially changed, even rejected.

More often than not, it is found that no new project submission is immune from change and those decisions and dictates are made by civic and environmental concerns about its short, medium and long term impacts upon the environment—including in the decision making are its impact on traffic, neighborhood zoning consistency, size, zoning compatibility, and many other factors which result in a final decision.

Typically it’s a fair and objective process meant to analyze any and all substantive evidence of all proposed new projects and its impacts which it presents to the general public and its inhabitants, being “at risk.”

The next formal step in Los Angeles’ and California statewide planning processes is to have the submitting party then prepare what is commonly referred to an Environmental Impact Report aka as an “EIR” to be submitted to analyze and determine and address any and all potential environmental effects that must be mitigated and ameliorated until all issues are exhausted—from that, the EIR is reviewed for purposes of allowing both the developer and the general public a chance to review all decisions to allow all new planning and environmental recommendation for review–typically though public hearings.

Environmental Impact Reports

According to case law, the requirements needed to prepare an EIR is at "the heart of CEQA. An EIR serves to inform governmental agencies and the public of a project’s environmental impacts.Further, an EIR proposes mitigations and alternatives which may reduce or avoid the environmental impacts; as the EIR is considered the heart of CEQA, mitigation and alternatives are considered the heart of the EIR.

A structural alternative inherent in this process it that the lead agency can determine that there is no project alternative in lieu, so that a cancellation of the project and anticipated re-submissions of proposals for new projects to be put into place.

Source: The History of CEQA

Recently this has all been thrown away by California Legislature

As the saying goes, what you don’t know won’t hurt you; but in this crucial matter that will forever affect both Los Angeles and California, this has all been tossed aside–and our say and rights to proper planning and oversight has been deemed to be of no importance by our State Legislature.

So what we don’t know can and will further destroy our continued progress to make Los Angeles and environs more sustainable and protected from unscrupulous developers and sloppy planning.

The Dismantling of CEQA right under our Noses

While most of us were focused last week on bills in the legislature that would exempt a finite number of development projects (including the proposed downtown LA stadium) from some requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), legislators quietly passed a bill, SB 226, that could do even more lasting damage across the state.

Deeper analysis reveals the addition of two new California Public Resources Code Sections, 21094.5 and 21094.5.5. Specifically, these “infill” provisions would:

● Enable cities and counties to use decades-old environmental impact reports (EIRs) as the basis of new zoning decisions, without updating the old EIRs

● Allow, if not require, cities and counties to ignore “growth-inducing impacts” when approving projects

● Divorce land use and transportation planning in the interest of inducing development — even in areas where there is insufficient transportation infrastructure to support growth, or where planned transportation improvements have not yet come on line

● Apply to communities as small as 100,000 people

Said one environmental attorney last week: “The infill provisions in SB 226 are unacceptable from an environmental perspective … It is a half-baked, poorly thought out proposal that lacks precision or clarity.” Source: Citywatch

That’s an understatement. The bill will worsen traffic and increase pollution all across the state, undermining AB 32, California’s landmark greenhouse gas law, and SB 375, the Sustainable Communities Strategy.

We urge all interested Los Angeles and Southern Californian’s to contact Governor Jerry Brown’s office and demand an immediate and unconditional repeal of this monstrous law, which sets our smart planning and community input as the bedrock of our ability as a community to shape and form Los Angeles and Southern California.

As it now stand, unless we undo our decades of hard work and determined efforts to make Los Angeles and all of Southern California free of unfair, useless, unscrupulous run-a-way development, that exposes us with potential unbridled potential corruption–that now puts us less than important in both our community voices and how we want our various communities to grow responsibly.

Think globally and act locally and demand that Governor Brown veto this bill immediately.

Located on the border between Silver Lake and Los Feliz, Rowena Reservoir is a park right out of a fairy tale; palm tree lined pathways, freshly mulched shrubs, and posted signs warning to not feed the ducks.

Originally part of the extensive reservoir system in Silver Lake, which includes both Silver Lake and Ivanhoe Reservoirs, Rowena was a 31 million gallon reservoir, which at one time, supplied the city with water.

After months of negotiation, in December 1991, LADWP and local residents agreed on a plan to replace the reservoir with a camouflaged tank after it was initially drained, rather than to refill it.

10 years later, as of July 19, 2001, LADWP opened the new Rowena Reservoir pond for a brief tour of facilities which featured a new 10 million-gallon underground storage tank that cost $14 Million.

Thanks to Take Sunset, for this great aerial shot of how the Rowena Reservoir used to look like:

Today, unfortunately the Rowena Reservoir looks different:

In August 2011, LADWP drained the lake, much like they did at the Echo Park Lake.

And, according to the posted signs encircling the reservoir:

Rowena Reservoir Lake is undergoing maintenance to address algae growth and sediment buildup. The pond is a water feature and does not contain potable water. These repairs will not impact LADWP water service or water quality.

LADWP crews will drain the pond to remove the algae and sediment from the bottom of the pond. While the pond is drained, LADWP will also repair cracks in the concrete liner and make improvements to the pond’s filtration system. The pond will be refilled once repairs are completed in September 2011.

Well, they’ve missed deadline because it’s now October 20^th 2011, and the water is yet to be restored.

Another troublesome issue which remains is that even though the pathways are pristine and well kept up; LADWP in its wisdom finally finishes the refill the pond–to be restored to its original beauty.

But now there’s a large green fence that currently surrounds the entire pond, along with no public access.

To state the facts, the LADWP spent all of the original $14 million, plus up-keep, including its draining — and people still aren’t able to enjoy the Rowena Reservoir.

Why?

From my research, it appears that the problem is two-fold:

First, according to Curbed LA, said there is some high voltage electrical equipment around the site that will have to be removed, and second, there’s the legitimate worry–about keeping out bathers.

So until a solution is found, the public has no choice but to wait for the completion of the Rowena Reservoir restoration — until then, it doesn’t look to to be a pressing matter for the LADWP; but it’s one for the people who would like to frequent Rowena Reservoir pond.

Lastly it is indeed a tending matter and needs immediate attention — it’s a crying shame that the water around it is still missing.

And that isn’t all:

The amount of delay endured by the average commuter was 34 hours, up from 14 hours in 1982.

The cost of congestion is more than $100 billion, nearly $750 for every commuter in the U.S.

“Rush Hour” is six hours of not rushing anywhere.

Congestion is becoming a bigger problem outside of “Rush Hour,” –with about 40 percent of the delay occurring in the mid-day and overnight hours–creating an escalating and increasingly serious problem for businesses that rely on efficient production and deliveries.

When our area’s economic growth returns, the average commuter is estimated to spend an additional 3 hours of delay by 2015; and 7 hours by 2020.

For a larger view, click on the screenshot.

So, what does that mean for us ?

Proposed and current solutions:

Public transit is obviously a huge component of reducing traffic, pollution, and energy consumption.

Even though Los Angeles isn’t a role model for an efficient public transit system, yet, if it hadn’t been available in 2010, commuters would have spent 33,606,000 more hours in traffic, costing an extra $708.8 Million Dollars.

Another solution is telecommuting. If work can be effectively done from home, why not? It’s about time businesses take a hard long look at the idea and concept of letting more people work from home, if and when possible. Many professions and positions are well suited for such changes.

Another iteration is examining differing schedules for different businesses. For example, why not open banks on Sunday, and close on Tuesday? The possibilities are boundless. If banks are not possible, many others are.

The bottom line is that while our world remains fluid; our habits must and cannot remain static in this very competitive global economy. A good place to start is to think outside the box.
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/los-angeles-traffic-will-increase-as-our-economy-improves/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/commuting-statistics-for-los-angeles-county/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/commuting-statistics-for-los-angeles-county/#comments Fri, 07 Oct 2011 14:12:13 +0000 D. J. Schwartz http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=30760 Let’s crunch some numbers and export them into a data matrix regarding Commuting Statistics for Los Angeles County.

The data contained herein is based on information and statistics from the 2010 Census presented at American FactFinder.

Having biked, walked, photographed, written and driven about various aspects of LA’s freeways and streets, I was interested to see how people commute to work; and here are the results–I’ll feature spreadsheets and the pie charts to illustrate my findings and results, based on the data as explained.

In Los Angeles County, the following data has been extrapolated from over 4,200,000 total commuters 16 years and over:

So, based on that–this is how they get to work:

And based on that, the following is how long it took them to get there:

These are the current statistics of the amount of vehicles which are in each individual household in Los Angeles County:

So the acid test, is where do you–or your household–fit into these documented patterns?

Surprisingly, there are more 3 car households than 1 car households. It’s no surprise that most drivers are single drivers.

But, nonetheless, both of the commute times are similar. Another interesting finding is that there isn’t much of a spread time between shorter commutes verses longer commutes.

Did any of the data surprise you? If so how? Please let us know your thoughts on this important and timely issue in the comments section below.

Recall that everyday the streets of LA are clogged with traffic; so this event makes it that more special.

On Sunday, October 9^th, 10 miles of blacktop will be totally traffic free, and wide open for bikers, hikers, skateboarders, and all manner of non-motorized “vehicles.”

It’s CicLAvia!

This year’s event will be a little different than previous ones.

Besides the obvious fun and benefit of being able to enjoy wide open car-free streets, the roads will also be filled with art, performances, music, and interactive activities to entertain and engage participants of all ages.

Ranging from dance troops to yoga workshops, a mobile DJ booth and a life-size chess game, CicLAvia will be a citywide festival celebrating LA’s creativity and diversity.

So, where do you go and how do you get there?

Here’s a map of this year’s event (Click the map for a larger PDF view):

New this year are six unique hubs, each featuring one of LA’s distinctive neighborhoods, the Bicycle District in East Hollywood; MacArthur Park; the African American Firefighter Museum on Central Avenue; the South Lawn of City Hall; El Pueblo de Los Angeles; and Hollenbeck Park in Boyle Heights.

Each hub will offer free water, portable and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, first-aid stations, neighborhood guides and information, culinary delights, and a wide range of festivities, both planned and spontaneous.

Of course businesses along the route, including a wide array of food establishments will be open and ready to serve. Part of the adventure of CicLAvia, which runs from 10:00am until 3:00pm, is seeing LA up close while obtaining unobstructed views of our surroundings and landscape–without the trappings of a car.

To get there, CicLAvia has a great list, featuring almost every mode of transportation available.

Keep in mind, this is meant to be fun for the whole family; and the streets will be filled with people of all ages, so have fun and be safe.

After working for over a year, Ron Durgin from Sustainable Streets, a nonprofit organization committed to building healthy communities by encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in “active transportation” for their everyday mobility needs.

As noted, just as every journey starts with the first turns of a bike’s few wheels; Santa Monica Spoke has been successful in securing a teaching area for bike classes at the beach.

Now, Santa Monica will be one of the few local cities near Los Angeles, to have a permanent bike teaching area.

Although I haven’t seen it for myself, Richard McKinnon, chairman of the Bike It! Day at Santa Monica High School, and Santa Monica’s Spoke Commissioner, included some great pictures in his email:

Classes start in October!

Or how about doing some window shopping?

Or maybe you need to find a cool gift?

Have you walked along Abbott Kinney Boulevard yet?

Home to both home-grown artists and nationally recognized designs, Abbott Kinney is a mix of modern style and old world charm. Stretching one mile between Main Street and Venice Boulevard, Abbott Kinney Boulevard, as KCET puts it, is “a new Rodeo Drive with attitude.”

And that attitude is going to get much bigger this weekend.

On Sunday, September 25^th, from 10:00am until 6:00pm, the 27th Annual Abbott Kinney Festival is taking place.

With music, food, and over 100 participating shops, this year’s Abbott Kinney Festival purpose is “promote the vibrant creativity that makes the beachside community of Venice, California so unique.”

And this year’s Festival may be its biggest and best yet.

In addition, the Abbot Kinney Festival seeks to be an environmentally and socially responsible event. Following are just a few examples of what they are currently doing to reduce their ecological footprint:

1. We encourage food vendors to provide biodegradable utensils and attendees to bring reusable utensils, shopping bags, and beverage containers to avoid excessive waste.

2. We strive to be paperless as much as possible. Our registration is online and publicity materials are distributed electronically. Other items are designed with reuse in mind such as our festival program guides, which are printed using recycled newsprint and soy-based ink.

3. Everything that can be recycled is done so to the best of our ability. Bins are placed throughout the festival for use by attendees and vendors. Banners are either constructed using recycled materials or designated for recycling or repurposing.

4. We urge attendees to use greener modes of transportation. Use our bike valet stations, carpool with friends, walk from nearby parking lots, or take the bus.

5. Our music stages are powered with biodiesel generators.

The Festival sounds great, but don’t just visit Abbott Kinney one day a year. It’s meant to be savored on a regular basis.

Here are a few things you might see on any given morning:

In a little park in Playa del Rey called Titmouse, at the far right back corner, you’ll find the start of a pathway that leads into the Ballona Creek Wetlands.

Now, I’m not sure if this area is open to the general public. I did see a few “Private Property” signs; but at the point I entered, none of these signs were visible.

To be sure as well, while I was there, I saw a group of students on what looked like a field trip, so I felt comfortable enough that if I did not veer very far from the path, all seemed well and good to have a look.

After that point in time, as I was following the path that starts right at the park, I soon discovered an educational amphitheater.

As a matter of fact I found it rather interesting in which they have decorated this particular area with all of the creatures that call Ballona Creek home.

Next, the path twists and turns and subsequently leads to a wonderful overlook where our fair city meets the wetlands. Currently during this time of the year, it’s not too wet; one may not want to traverse this area in case a good rain shall prevail.

And, who would have thought of putting a bench here–which is apparently in the middle of nowhere.

But, you will see one here dedicated to Mary Thomson, who is the “Mother of the Dunes Restoration” project.

Continuing along the path, you’ll soon reach a viewing stand, from which you can look for the numerous birds, small mammals, reptiles, insects, and flora that live in the Ballona Creek Wetlands. Because of the school tour, I was unable to reach this point, but I’m sure you’ll have no problem to be able to do such.

It’s amazing that in the confines of a city as large as Los Angeles, small nooks and crannies can be found where nature takes the limelight.

I hope you find time to investigate this little corner that centuries past have created, but modern day volunteers maintain.

In fact, Los Angeles County is home to the very first “freeway.”

That’s right, the Pasadena Freeway aka Arroyo Seco Parkway, which started construction in 1934, and was completed in 1941 wasn’t just the first freeway in the world, but it also represented the transitional phase between early parkways and modern freeways.

The Arroyo Seco Parkway is designated a State Scenic Highway, National Civil Engineering Landmark, and National Scenic Byway, plus it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2011.

Who knew?

Planning for the freeway system started in the early 1930s, and according to Cities in Civilization: Culture, Technology, and Urban Order, by Peter Hall, Los Angeles city planners originally had intended to have light rail tracks installed in the center margin of each freeway, but this plan was never came to fruition.

Now, we have to live with the decisions made by our political leaders decades ago.

During World War II years, two freeways, the San Bernardino and the Santa Ana, were started. And that was only the beginning. Between 1950 and 1965 was the boom period for the California freeway system.

By the 1970s, the money for new freeways started to dissipate. By 2004, only 61% of the freeways proposed in the updated 1954 Master Plan were completed, which caused gaps in the system, which subsequently created our current traffic nightmares.

To that end, here is a list of the freeways and their construction dates surrounding Los Angeles:

Pasadena Freeway: 1934-1941
Hollywood Freeway: 1940-1968
San Bernardino Freeway: 1943-1957
Santa Ana Freeway: 1944-1964
Harbor Freeway: 1952-1970
Long Beach Freeway: 1952-1975 (uncompleted)
Golden State Freeway: 1955-1976
Foothill Freeway: 1955-1976 (uncompleted)
Artesia Freeway: 1956-1975
Ventura Freeway: 1958-1971
Glendale Freeway: 1958-1979
San Diego Freeway: 1957-1964
Santa Monica Freeway: 1961-1966
San Gabriel River Freeway: 1963-1971
Antelope Valley Freeway: 1963-1973
Garden Grove Freeway: 1963 (uncompleted)
Pomona Freeway: 1965-1971
Marina Freeway: 1968-2007
Orange Freeway: 1969-1973
Glenn Anderson Freeway: 1982-1993
Terminal Island Freeway: 1983- present

Oh, the first freeway isn’t the only road first for California.

In fact, Los Angeles is the home of the world’s first stack interchange. So, the next time you drive the 110 and get off at the 101, you’ll be looking at history.

In April 2011, The Nature Conservancy, whose mission “is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive,” came out with their “Top Ten California Natural Treasures.” Not new news, to be sure, therefore Travelin’ Local has now mapped them–so that you’ll both more easily know intellectually and visually just how the natural beauty we have here is so important to appreciate, enjoy and preserve.

By the way, the numbers below are in reference to The Nature Conservancy’s list. They are out of order here because I grouped them based on location.

4 of these natural treasures are located right here in Los Angeles’ backyard:

1. Angeles National Forest—which provides us recreational opportunities that range from skiing, swimming, hiking to off-roading for the millions of Angelenos who call the Southland home; as well as the millions of visitors who travel to Southern California every year, the Angeles National Forest provides a much-needed getaway from the nation’s second-largest urban area.

2. The Channel Island National Park—Just a few miles off the California Coast, the Channel Islands offers visitors a landscape so remote and rugged that it feels like it could be a world away. The five islands (Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara) are home to plants and animals found nowhere else on earth.

7. San Bernadino National Forest—The San Bernardino National Forest in the Inland Empire is also part of the National Treasure list .

This forest serves as Southern California’s outdoor, year-round recreation destination, and it also provides valuable watershed protection.

9. The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area—Contains many of Southern California’s most pristine beaches and recreation areas.

The 154,095 acres that comprise the Santa Monica National Recreation Area, draws visitors from throughout California and around the world. Congressional action could potentially have detrimental impacts to this Santa Monica natural reserve, as cuts proposed by Congress could eliminate up to $3.75 million of its funding.

Hence two of our nation’s top natural treasures are located easily within 2-5 hours away:

4. The Mojave National Preserve— Contrary to conjecture or expectation, the deserts of the Mojave National Preserve are alive with otherworldly plants and animals like the Joshua tree and the desert tortoise, which have adapted to survive in this harsh environment. Spring showers bring carpets of wildflowers to this unique and superlative 1.6-million-acre park.

8. San Diego’s National Wildlife Refuge— This refuge offers year-round recreation opportunities; but come spring or fall it’s a haven for both the migratory birds who come here to nest and breed, and for the people who come to watch them.

10. Sequoia National Forest—As broad as their cousins—the Redwoods—the tall, giant Sequoias have amazed school children, presidents, and impressed visiting kings and queens alike.

Stretching more than 102 feet around, the Sequoia National Forest is home to some of the biggest trees found anywhere on Earth. Located in the southern Sierra Nevadas, the park also contains Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous 48 United States.

Two are within an 8 hour drive:

3. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area—The Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a major reason why visitors leave their hearts in San Francisco. It contains such famous tourist attractions as the famous green hills of the Marin headlines, which is considered as an integral part of the area when viewed by people as they stroll across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and the Muir Woods National Monument, Alcatraz Island and the Presidio of San Francisco.

5. Point Reyes National Seashore—From its thunderous ocean breakers crashing against rocky headlands and expansive sand beaches; to its open grasslands, brushy hillsides and forested ridges–Point Reyes offers visitors with over 1000 species of plants and animals to discover. Home to several cultures for thousands of years, the Seashore preserves a tapestry of stories and interactions of people.

And one required at least a two day drive:

6. The Redwood National and State Parks—Grand and majestic, these 300-foot trees tower over this famous part of California. People around the world are drawn to marvel at these giant and majestic trees. There are also plenty of opportunities to splash around with river otters and picnic in a natural cathedral.

So now Travelin’ Local has made it much easier to find each one our top Natural Treasures.

Below is the map. Each area is an approximation, but feel free to zoom in for a closer look:

View Top Ten California Natural Treasures in a larger map

I know the summer is almost over, but there’s always time for an outdoor weekend.

There was a timeline wall showing various transportation milestones.

As well, Metro tattoos were the party’s rage–a sign of both the times and the rage of Metro!

Not real tattoos, of course, but still it was cool for a few days, and considering how many people took Metro to the event, naturally, of course, lots of people were getting theirs!

There were also a myriad of pull-up placards featured that were hidden in wooden stands, each with their own message.

Or rather facts:

In order to share these facts with you, I took a photo of each one of the placards–they are self-explanatory and very informative:

To be sure, during the entire event I learned something new; therefore it’s Travelin’ Local’s desire that you will too.

RETHINK LA: PERSPECTIVES ON A FUTURE CITY (PDF), is a creative and innovative photo exhibit designed to “imagine a city-in- transition, fifty years in the future” by asking ourselves what our future will look like:

Its intent is for us to think about LA, and if we’ll collectively choose its current status-quo or look for other, more sustainable ways to “RETHINK LA.”

But Why 50 years from now?

Because looking backward 50 years ago, two major transportation events happened here:

• The Federal Aid Highway Act was passed, which originally authorized 25 billion dollars for the construction of 41,000 miles of California’s Interstate Highway System.
• The dismantling of our Pacific Electric Railway, which was a fantastic mass transit system

So last night, in the spirit and intent of Moving Beyond Cars, I hopped on the bus (a story for next week), and headed over to the A+D Museum, (a non-profit 501(c)3 organization), whose mission is to “celebrate and promote an awareness of progressive Architecture and Design in everyday life.”

I wasn’t disappointed.

Between strolling through their well crafted and creative photo exhibit; to taking a close look at James Rojas’, Wilshire on Wilshire, an interactive urban planning project, to writing on the collaborative chalkboard, the evening was a smashing success on all levels.

Here’s a short video I created highlighting some of last evening’s activities:

If you’d like to see the exhibit, you still have time; it’s running until September 4^th, 2011.

After all, it’s our city, why not RETHINK LA’s current problems and future sustainable solutions?

But, if you didn’t know there is a series of local interconnected mass transit trains that service much of Southern California.

It’s called Metrolink, and it serves 6 SoCal counties:

Los Angeles County
Orange County
Riverside County
San Bernardino County
San Diego County
Ventura County

Here’s a map to give you a better picture of all its various stops:

If you haven’t tried Metrolink yet, now’s a great time. As of July 1^st, you can now purchase a Metrolink Weekend Pass for a $10 bargain price–which in these tough times is a pretty good deal.

So, now for a sawbuck, from Friday night at 7:00pm until midnight Sunday, you can ride as many Metrolink trains as you wish. Plus, the $10 Weekend Pass includes free transfers to connect to rail or bus.

And what better weekend to try Metrolink than during this weekend’s upcoming ‘Carmaggedon“

Metrolink is adding service to its regularly-scheduled weekend service on its Antelope Valley Line, plus 9 additional trains will be added to serve those traveling from the San Fernando and Antelope Valleys.

In addition, Metrolink’s website, with interactive mapping and schedule times, is a great resource to plan your trip.

What a great and affordable way to discover all of the different sides of SoCal!!

It’s all part of the new law that was recently adopted by the the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, November 16^th, 2010:

This ordinance amends Title 12 – Environmental Protection of the Los Angeles County Code, by adding a Chapter regulating the use of plastic carryout bags and recyclable paper carryout bags, in promote both the habit and use of reusable bags within the County’s unincorporated areas.

Pursuant to the new Law, plastic carryout bags, as defined, may no longer be distributed by affected stores and a 10 cent ($0.10) charge for each recyclable paper carryout bag distributed by those stores will apply.

On July 1^st, only “large” stores or stores with a pharmacy are affected; but as usual, it comes with a caveat that come January 1^st, 2012, “small” stores will have to follow the same policy.

If you’d like to see if a store near you will be affected the new law, here’s a map of the 82 large stores (click here for a larger view (PDF):

In case you have a few questions, “About the Bag”, which is sponsored by County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works has answered them for you:

Are reusable bags recyclable? Where can I bring them to be recycled? Depending on the material, it may be recyclable. Visit Earth911.com for more information on recycling locations.

Can I use my own carryout bag? Yes

What can I use as a carryout bag? Anything you can safely carry your groceries with, including: reusable bags, backpacks, baskets, buckets, and boxes, for example.

What if I don’t want to buy/bring a reusable bag or purchase a paper bag? If you can comfortably carry your paid purchases out by hand or in your purse/backpack, that is one option; or you can repackage your goods into a shopping cart or basket and unload them directly into your vehicle (and then return the cart or basket).

Is there a place where low income people can buy discounted reusable bags? Public Works distributes free reusable bags in limited quantities at various community events throughout the County. Please visit the Events table periodically for the latest events info. In addition, please see response to "Does the 10-cent charge per paper bag apply to everyone? Who is exempt?

Won’t buying all these paper and reusable bags be a burden on me and my family during these hard economic times? Based on the Socio Economic Study [PDF, 271KB] done as a part of the Environmental Impact Report [PDF, 49MB], the estimated increase in overall cost due to this ordinance is $5.72 per capita annually. This includes stores switching from plastic bags to paper bags (the cost of "free bags" are normally hidden and passed on to consumers); customers buying more trash bin liners; and increased sales tax incurred from the new purchases. However, potential savings or added value to customers, in the form of reduced taxes for litter abatement, increased property values, and the value of other environmental benefits associated with the proposed ordinance were not calculated in this study.

Are reusable bags recyclable? Where can I bring them to be recycled? Depending on the material, it may be recyclable. Visit Earth911.com for more information on recycling locations.

What is the 10-cent charge used for? All monies collected by a store from this Ordinance will be retained by the store and may be used for compliance with the Ordinance.

Does the 10-cent charge per paper bag apply to everyone? Who is exempt? All affected stores authorized to accept WIC or SNAP purchase payments must provide at the point of sale, free of charge, either reusable bags or recyclable paper carryout bags or both, at the store’s option, to any customer participating either in the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) or in the CalFresh/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Is the 10-cent charge per paper bag taxable? Yes, initial discussions with the Board of Equalization indicate that the 10-cent charge on paper bags would be subject to State sales tax.

Plus, if you don’t own any reusable bags, several events are planned where you can get one, for FREE:

Date & Time	Event	Location
Thursday, June 16, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	24975 Pico Canyon Rd Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381
Friday, June 17, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	520 Workman Mill Rd Avocado Heights, CA 91746
Friday, June 17, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	5245 W Centinela Ave Ladera Heights, CA 90045
Friday, June 17, 2011 10am – 3pm	99 Ranch Market	1015 S Nogales St Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Monday, June 20, 2011 10am – 3pm	Howie’s Ranch Market	6580 N San Gabriel Blvd East San Gabriel, CA 91775
Monday, June 20, 2011 10am – 3pm	Rite Aid	1534 E. Florence Ave Florence-Firestone, CA 90001
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	4700 Admiralty Way Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10am – 3pm	Top Valu Market	10819 S Hawthorne Blvd Lennox, CA 90304
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10am – 3pm	Top Valu Market	970 W 1st St La Rambla, CA 90731
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	2270 N Lake Ave Altadena, CA 91001
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 10am – 3pm	Super King Market	2260 N Lincoln Ave Altadena, CA 91001
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 10am – 3pm	Rite Aid	11750 Willmington Ave Los Angeles, CA 90059
Thursday, June 23, 2011 10am – 3pm	El Super	1301 E. Gage Ave Florence-Firestone, CA 90001
Thursday, June 23, 2011 10am – 3pm	Valu Plus Warehouse	15055 Mulberry Dr South Whittier, CA 90604
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	Galleria Market	18317 Colima Rd Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	99 Ranch Market	1625 S Azusa Ave Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	26850 The Old Road Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	23850 Copper Hill Dr Valencia, CA 91355
Monday, June 27, 2011 10am – 3pm	T.S. Emporium	1457 S Nogales St Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 10am – 3pm	Food 4 Less	851 Sepulveda Blvd Torrance, CA 90502
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	29675 The Old Rd Castaic, CA 91384
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	31970 Castaic Rd Castaic, CA 91384
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	19725 Colima Rd Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	17120 Colima Rd Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 10am – 3pm	Food 4 Less	11407 S Western Ave Los Angeles, CA 90047
Thursday, June 30, 2011 10am – 3pm	Food 4 Less	11840 Wilmington Ave Los Angeles, CA 90059
Thursday, June 30, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	2675 Foothill Blvd La Crescenta, CA 90059

This is a bold move by a body that’s traditionally known for its timidity, therefore its sustainability factor shouldn’t be underestimated, and in due time, the City of LA will no doubt do the same.

I’m really looking forward to finding out the environmental impact of the ban–if it does prove to reduce the amount of un-recyclable trash, which its should, we’ll see this trend be nature’s friend in and around LA.

According to a new study by the Pew Center of the States and the Rockefeller Foundation entitled, Measuring Transportation Investments: The Road to Results, California (PDF) is “leading the way” in “having the essential tools—goals, performance measures and data—needed to help decision makers choose more cost-effective transportation funding and policy options.”

Using 6 areas of focus; safety, jobs and commerce, mobility, access, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure preservation, the study “identifies which states have the essential tools in place to make more cost-effective transportation funding and policy choices.”

Even though many states have goals in place, this study “does not evaluate states based on whether or to what degree they actually have achieved these goals.”

Rather, the study “assessed whether states could meet a baseline threshold in each of the six areas examined.”

Safety

Jobs and Commerce

Mobility

Access

Environmental Stewardship

Infrastructure Preservation

To my chagrin and surprise, the study does not base its results on real world achievements:

“Historically, states have not prioritized or funded transportation projects based on solid data analysis or by comparing the costs and benefits of various options. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported in December 2010 that states assign greater importance to factors such as “political and public support” than to an economic analysis of project benefits and costs.”

However, based on the study, a growing number of state decision makers are seeing that transportation money needs to have “explicit goals, outcome-oriented performance measures and solid data.”

Considering transportation spending on a household level ranks second, right after housing, what states do with our transportation taxes is of even more value.

Let’s keep the momentum going and spend our transportation dollars wisely. After all, 11.66 billion is a lot of money. So let’s continue our support of California for being “one of 13 states leading the way,” in both achieving and measuring its transportation investments.

It’s a small postcard labeled: Fill a bag. Feed Families.

What a great idea!

Stamp Out Hunger!

Almost everyone has food items in their pantry that they can donate. Perhaps you have a spare can of corn, a box of brownie mix, or an extra can of soup that you don’t want or need but others might.

Then all you have to do is put a few items in a grocery bag/s and leave it next to your mailbox, and your hard working and friendly postal worker will do the rest.

However, you’ll have to complete this task by tomorrow:

Saturday, May 14^th.

Okay, Mr. Postman, there will be a grocery bag next to my mailbox tomorrow–Saturday, May 14^th.

So are you going to do your part to “Stamp Out Hunger” tomorrow?” Don’t just talk the talk but walk the walk; after all it’s easy and you’ll be doing your best to help your fellow citizens–right here right now.
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/help-stamp-out-hunger-tomorrow/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/los-angeles-crenshaw-metro-station/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/los-angeles-crenshaw-metro-station/#comments Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:14:35 +0000 Lisa Newton http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=27979 On Friday, I took LA’s Crenshaw/I-105 Metro Station, aka as the “Green Line,” going west.

The last time I took the Green Line, I was traveling to Long Beach. But today, I’m heading to downtown Los Angeles via the “Silverline.” If you’re ever in Inglewood, the Green Line and its connection is one of the best ways to get there.

The Crenshaw/I-105 Metro Station includes a 500 space parking lot, which on this particular weekday was half full. During my foray, I took advantage of their services and parked my car there and headed to the platform. BTW, there’s no charge for parking.

Mapping Public Art in Los Angeles:

Indeed, even if your commute happens to be too far, for using a bicycle, Metro is very bike friendly and you can use a combination of both. And with Gasoline prices approaching $5:00 per gallon, keeping more money in your pocket while doing good and well, isn’t a bad idea!

This year Metro wants to help you feel more comfortable–and safe–while using a bike, so they’re started a new program entitled Bike Buddies. Essentially, you get to join forces with many veteran riders to learn various safety trips, means and methods if there is a safety tip you’d like to know. Bike Buddies “offers inexperienced bike riders the opportunity to learn some on-road safety tips and techniques with experienced cyclists.”

Besides the obvious health benefits of riding your bike to work, there’s also the environmental benefit of riding a non-polluting vehicle to get where you want to go.

To help you navigate the various Bike to Work Week activities, here’s a short list:

• Monday, May 16^th – Bike Week LA Kick-off Event
• Tuesday, May 17^th – Blessing of the Bicycles at the Good Samaritan Hospital starting at 8:00am where you can Get Blessed! Get Breakfast! and Get a Free Bike Check!
• Wednesday, May 18^th - Meet at Union Station on Alameda Street and ride through Downtown with other bike enthusiasts and supporters. Congregate at 8:00am and the ride will leave at 8:30am.
• Thursday, May 19^th - Bike to Work Day: Be one of thousands of LA county residents participating. Visit pit stops, get a free ride on transit, and get entered to win prizes.
• Friday, May 20^th - Bike to School Day

After participating in Bike Week 2011, you’ll learn new ways to feel comfortable not using a car and feeling like you’ve made a difference, as “Green Energy” and “Sustainability” issues will continue to be at the forefront of our national energy debate and way of life.