It’s not exactly “Carmageddon,” but a planned month-long closure of Coldwater Canyon Avenue between Mulholland Drive and Ventura Boulevard had local officials warning the public today to be prepared for traffic delays between the San Fernando Valley and West Los Angeles.
(Flickr/pumpkincat210)
The closure, planned for March 23 to April 25, is being planned so crews can replace part of a 60-inch-diameter water pipeline.
The existing pipe is 99 years old, according to the Department of Water and Power.
Beginning Saturday, no left turns will be allowed onto Ventura Boulevard from northbound and southbound Coldwater Canyon.
“This is a vitally important project to ensure the continued safety and reliability of our drinking water,” City Councilman Paul Krekorian said. “I know how difficult it will be to drive through the area during this time, which is why I would urge all of us to find alternate routes during construction.”
During the project, the affected stretch of road will be closed Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
During non-construction hours, one lane will be open in each direction.
City, county and DWP officials suggested that motorists use alternate routes such as Laurel Canyon, Beverly Glen, Sepulveda and Cahuenga boulevards.
Special access permits will be provided for area residents and people who need to travel to schools or other businesses in the area.
According to the DWP, about 1,300 vehicles an hour travel along Coldwater Canyon during peak travel times.
“This project poses particular challenges — on an engineering level and for how to mitigate impacts for those who live, work or travel through this area of the city,” according to James B. McDaniel, senior assistant general manager for DWP’s water system. “The quality and reliability of your water service is our priority at the LADWP, and we are going to work as quickly and safely as possible to get this job done.”
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