Regional Connector Constructors (RCC) under contract to Metro will remove seven trees along 1st Street between Alameda and Vignes streets anticipated to take place on April 15 and 16 in preparation for a new utility line and roadway widening as part of the Regional Connector light rail project in downtown Los Angeles.
The trees located on the north sidewalk of 1st Street between Alameda and Vignes streets need to be removed so a new utility line can be installed and work can commence on widening the roadway in the area. Work is scheduled to take place between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Under the permits from the City of Los Angeles, trees will be replaced at a ratio of two new trees for every one existing tree that is removed with locations and species to be determined based on city requirements.
During the construction work, the north side on 1st Street may be restricted during those hours and pedestrians will be detoured around the work area. Access to businesses and driveways will be maintained and some lane closures in the area may occur.
The Regional Connector Project completes a 1.9-mile segment between the Metro Blue and Expo Lines and the Metro Gold Line by providing a direct connection with three new stations planned for 1st Street/Central Avenue, 2nd Street/Broadway and 2nd Place/Hope Street in downtown Los Angeles. The rail line, expected to be completed in 2020, will attract nearly 17,000 new daily riders and provide access to more than 88,000 passengers saving commuters up to 20 minutes off their daily commutes. It will provide a one-seat, one fare ride for commuters from Azusa to Long Beach and from East Los Angeles to Santa Monica without the need to transfer between rail lines for major east/west and north/south trips.
The new Metro Rail extension will offer an alternative transportation option to congested roadways, provide significant environmental benefits and spur economic development throughout the County. Through improved connectivity, riders will be better able to use the entire Metro Rail system, municipal bus lines and other regional transportation services.
