LA Adds Quick-Build Safety Lane for Students
LADOT converts Serrano Avenue to one-way traffic, adds dedicated school lane near Hobart
LADOT Adds School Safety Lane on Serrano Avenue
Los Angeles students now have safer routes to Hobart School after the city completed quick-build safety upgrades on Serrano Avenue. LADOT announced the improvements December 5, converting the street to one-way northbound traffic and adding a dedicated school pick-up and drop-off lane. The cost of the improvements wasn't immediately available.
Context and Background
The Serrano Avenue project aligns with Los Angeles' Vision Zero policy, adopted in 2015 to eliminate traffic deaths by 2025 through infrastructure improvements protecting vulnerable road users. LADOT's Quick-Build program uses temporary materials to rapidly implement safety changes before permanent construction, officials said. School zones remain priority areas for traffic calming measures as cities nationwide work to reduce vehicle speeds near educational facilities. Specific safety concerns that prompted the Serrano Avenue improvements weren't detailed in the announcement.
Key Details
The one-way conversion restricts Serrano Avenue to northbound traffic only, reducing potential conflicts between vehicles during busy school hours. LADOT added a dedicated lane for parents dropping off and picking up students, separating school traffic from through traffic. Officials didn't provide the length of Serrano Avenue affected by the changes or how many students attend Hobart School. The quick-build approach allows the city to test traffic patterns before committing to permanent infrastructure, though officials haven't said whether the changes will become permanent.
Timeline and Implementation
LADOT announced completion of the project December 5, though the construction timeline wasn't disclosed. Officials didn't say when work began or how long installation took. The agency typically implements quick-build projects within weeks rather than months, but specific dates for the Serrano Avenue work weren't available. Information about community engagement in the project planning wasn't available.
Rider Impact and Information
Parents dropping off students at Hobart School should use the new dedicated lane during morning and afternoon hours. Drivers who previously used Serrano Avenue for southbound travel will need to find alternate routes. Laura Rubio-Cornejo, LADOT General Manager, oversees the department's school safety initiatives, though officials weren't immediately available for comment on the project. Moovit provides real-time traffic updates and alternate routes for drivers affected by the street changes.
