Councilmember Jose Huizar and a host of City officials and community members came together today in Boyle Heights to break ground on phase two of the Eastside Access Project, which will improve pedestrian connections to stations on Metro's the Gold Line.

The $3.9-million endeavor will upgrademajor intersections along Boyle Avenue, State Street, St. Louis Street and Soto Street, between Cesar Chavez Avenue and 4th Street.  Specifically, the project includes:

  • Repairs to 40,000 square feet of broken sidewalks.
  • Upgrades to 47 curb ramps.
  • Planting of 200 new trees.
  • Installation of 7 new bus benches.
  • Installation of safety lighting at 17 bus stops.
  • Curb extensions at Boyle & Pleasant, Boyle & 3rd, and State & New Jersey.
  • Upgrades to 53 driveway approaches and 10 alleyway approaches to provide pedestrian access.
  • Installation of high-visibility crosswalks.

The improvements follow $12-million in upgrades that have already come to 1st Street through phase one of the project.