Project Background
The Merced Avenue Greenway in South El Monte is a groundbreaking project that rethinks how urban infrastructure can simultaneously serve pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists while providing essential environmental benefits. This innovative 1.1-mile greenway offers not only safe and accessible paths for walking and biking but also serves as a sustainable approach to managing stormwater, restoring habitats, and reducing urban heat.
The project is structured in two phases to ensure smooth implementation and minimal disruption to the community. The first phase was completed in December 2024, enhancing the southern section of the project area. The design phase for the second phase will begin in 2025, targeting completion in 2027. This phase will extend the greenway northward, forming a seamless stretch of sustainable infrastructure and improving connectivity across the community.
The project is structured in two phases to ensure smooth implementation and minimal disruption to the community. The first phase was completed in December 2024, enhancing the southern section of the project area. The design phase for the second phase will begin in 2025, targeting completion in 2027. This phase will extend the greenway northward, forming a seamless stretch of sustainable infrastructure and improving connectivity across the community.
Community BenefitsEnhanced Habitat and Green Spaces
Over 30,000 square feet of impermeable asphalt have been removed and replaced with native plants, trees, and pollinator-friendly gardens, creating valuable habitat and green spaces for wildlife and enhancing the overall biodiversity of the area. Improved Flood Protection Strategically placed planters with a capacity to hold up to 650,000 gallons of stormwater, combined with 10,000 square feet of new porous pavement capable of absorbing an additional 108,000 gallons, will significantly improve flood protection and mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall events. Reduced Heat Island Effects A diverse array of plants and trees will provide natural shade and evapotranspiration, creating a cooling effect and reducing the urban heat island effect, leading to a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment. Protected Pedestrian Walkways and Cyclist Paths Dedicated and protected pedestrian walkways and cyclist paths, separated from vehicular traffic, offer increased comfort and safety for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting active transportation and a healthier community. Increased Water Quality & Supply The greenway acts as a natural biofiltration system, capturing and cleansing over 3.3 million gallons of stormwater runoff during an average rain season, reducing pollutants and improving water quality before it enters local waterways, while also contributing to the replenishment of groundwater supplies. |
South El Monte City Council Presentation
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