A popular East L.A. pedestrian path for joggers and walkers at Calvary Cemetery is expected to get a facelift in the coming years.
The L.A. County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to approve a plan by the Department of Public Works (DPW) to begin the construction bidding process for the project. The initiative is part of a project to improve access to the Metro E Line, which runs along the path on 3rd Street.
“Residents in East Los Angeles should be able to access public transportation easily, especially the Metro [E] Line, which serves as a connector to the Eastside of Los Angeles County,” said Hilda Solis, who represents the area as District 1 Supervisor. Solis also serves as Chair Pro Tem of Metro, who will be overseeing the project.
The new pedestrian path will widen the existing two-mile-long sidewalk around Calvary Cemetery to create a rubberized path, similar to the one at another popular running route at Evergreen Cemetery. In addition, new pedestrian lights will be added to improve visibility for pedestrians during the night. Trees will also be planted along the path to provide shade.
The construction cost is expected to range between $8.75 and $13.25 million and will support 65 direct and indirect jobs, according to Solis’ office.
The project was first presented by AECom, a Metro consultant, at community events in the neighborhood from 2013 to 2014, and again in 2017 and 2019 to garner community support.
“A decade in the making, this project is a testament to my commitment to ensuring our First District communities have access to public transportation to school and work along with improved nearby options for physical exercise,” said Solis.
DPW is now in the process of finding a contractor for the project. Construction is expected to begin next summer, with an estimated completion date of spring 2026. The path will be closed during this time, a spokesperson said.