Stantec to lead feasibility study for Griffith Park aerial transit system

Los Angeles’ Department of Recreation and Parks has asked Stantec to prepare a feasibility study for an aerial transit system (ATS) aimed at alleviating congestion and increasing mobility for the Griffith Park area. The study will help decide if the city will move forward with an ATS.

Griffith Park is among the largest urban parks in the United States. At 4,200 acres, nestled just above Hollywood and Downtown LA, its popularity continues to grow as one of LA’s most iconic tourist and locals-visited destinations. In recent years, however, Griffith Park’s popularity has led to severe traffic gridlock in the park’s exterior and interior streets, a trend expected to continue.

 Hoping to reduce traffic and aid the safe mobility of visitors, the feasibility study will include the following primary tasks and topic areas:

• Analysis of the potential transit and mobility pros and cons of an ATS: An estimation of potential ridership demand and analysis of existing mobility platforms.

• Description and analysis of ATS technology and best practices: A description of the available technologies, an analysis of their operations and maintenance needs and costs, and a description and comparison of currently operating ATS in other urban areas.

• Definition and analysis of proposed alignment alternatives: Considerations for the start, landing stations and viewing area(s), including a viewing area of the famed Hollywood Sign, and potential impacts on the surrounding wildlife and community.

• Analysis of the reliability and safety of the ATS: Focused on the potential effects of the ATS on patron safety and on local emergency services, and the benefits it would provide park patrons.

• Community engagement/relations: The initiation, organization and management of a close-knit relationship with the community interested in the project through regular community meetings to update stakeholders and incorporate their feedback in the study.

• Assessment of the financial feasibility: An analysis of the financial requirements of the project, the potential funding sources and ridership fees.

“Griffith Park is one of Los Angeles’ true crown jewels,” said Simon Bluestone, Stantec vice president and longtime Los Angeles resident. “We’re thrilled to be working with the city of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks and the surrounding community to help inform decision-making on what could be a game changer for park visitors and residents.”