Councilmembers Dedicate $3 Million Improvement at Busy Intersection

Councilmembers Tom LaBonge and Wendy Greuel announced the completion of a $3 million major road improvement project at the intersection of Highland and Franklin avenues today. Both the north and south intersections were widened to allow dedicated right and left turn pockets to help relieve congestion at one of the busiest intersections in Los Angeles.

“This work has been needed for 30 years, and I’m pleased to finally announce the completion,” said Councilmember LaBonge who was instrumental is having the State of California relinquish the street to the City of Los Angeles in 2006.

The relinquishment paved the way for this project. When the state handed over control of this major north-south thoroughfare to the City of Los Angeles, it also provided $3.2 million in funds that it had previously ear-marked for future street and sidewalk upgrades. Those funds provided the budget for this project.

"This transit improvement project will allow tens of thousands of Angelenos and tourists to see the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, as opposed to the back of a car while stuck in traffic," said Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, Chair of the City's Transportation Committee. "I applaud Councilmember LaBonge's leadership in ensuring this critical project was completed."

Added City Engineer Gary Lee Moore, "The Highland Avenue Widening Project was extremely challenging to construct in this heavily congested area. I appreciate the support of the community during the planning and the construction of this much needed transportation enhancement project.”