Plans are underway to potentially connect two key Los Angeles communities with a new walking and biking trail along the LA River. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority has released a draft environmental impact report outlining several options for closing an 8-mile gap in the existing LA River Path.
Proposed Path Details
The proposed project aims to link Elysian Valley to Maywood with a dedicated path for pedestrians and cyclists. The path would run from Riverside Drive in Los Angeles to Atlantic Boulevard in Maywood, and would be physically separated from vehicle traffic. Seven different alternatives are being considered, ranging from a complete 8-mile path – potentially including between 5 and 7 new bridges and 9 to 11 access points – to shorter segments of 3.2 miles or 5 miles.
The draft report analyzes potential impacts on a variety of factors, including aesthetics, air quality, biological and cultural resources, noise levels, and traffic patterns. While the report identifies significant, unavoidable construction-related effects on paleontological resources and noise/vibration, it suggests no permanent significant impacts once construction is complete.
Public Input and Next Steps
A 47-day public review period is now open, running through Feb. 2, 2026. During this time, the public can submit comments online, by email, by phone, or by mail. Metro has scheduled four public hearings to present the findings and gather oral comments.
These hearings will be held in-person at the Lincoln Heights Senior Center (Jan. 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m.), the Maywood Center for Enriched Studies (Jan. 27, 6-8 p.m.), and Felicitas and Gonzalo Méndez Senior High School (Jan. 31, 10 a.m.-noon). A virtual webinar is also scheduled for Jan. 29 (6-8 p.m.). Spanish interpretation will be provided at all sessions.
The full document is available for review online at metro.net/projects/lariverpath, as well as at select libraries and city halls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scope of the proposed project?
The project proposes to close an 8-mile gap in the LA River Path, connecting Elysian Valley to Maywood with a dedicated walking and biking trail.
How can the public provide feedback on the project?
Comments can be submitted online, by email, phone, or mail during the 47-day public review period, which runs through Feb. 2, 2026. Public hearings are also scheduled.
What potential impacts are being considered?
The draft report analyzes potential impacts on aesthetics, air quality, biological and cultural resources, noise, traffic, and paleontological resources, among others.
How might this project affect the surrounding communities?
