Anthony Cafarchia’s Family Legacy
Anthony Cafarchia grew up in Eagle Rock, where his family has owned the Eagle Rock Bakery and Deli since the 1960s. Despite challenges such as the passing of his parents, the pandemic, and the Eaton fire destroying his brother’s home, the shop has endured. Cafarchia fears the introduction of a bus lane might jeopardize the business. He expressed concern about potential negative impacts on his business due to changes.
Metro’s Bus Route Plan
A planned 19-mile bus route will connect North Hollywood to Pasadena, passing through Eagle Rock on a high-traffic portion of Colorado Boulevard along Historic Route 66. This initiative is part of Metro’s goal to improve public transit ahead of the 2028 Olympics. Metro aims to shuttle large numbers of fans across L.A. County using this extensive bus network.
Community and Business Concerns
The route won’t directly access Olympic venues but is praised by transit supporters as a car-free travel option between the San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys. However, many Eagle Rock residents and business owners have questioned the designs, fearing they would worsen traffic, reduce scarce parking further, and alter Eagle Rock’s small-town character. Burbank blocked Metro from obtaining permits for part of the route, arguing it would disrupt residential traffic. A judge supported Burbank over Metro’s claim that delays would impact Olympic plans.
Transit Advocates’ Perspective
Transit advocates argue that the updates will enhance traffic conditions overall, both for the Olympics and beyond. Metro stated that about 30,000 passengers could be transported daily along the route. Metro emphasized the benefits of offering people reliable travel options across the valleys, with enhanced bus stations and frequent service.
Project Details and Community Impact
The project costs nearly half a billion dollars and is largely financed through Measure M. Construction is underway in Pasadena, with plans to start soon in Eagle Rock. The path through Eagle Rock would use a median to add a dedicated bus lane, reducing car lanes and prohibiting left-hand turns onto over 10 streets from Colorado Boulevard.
Resident Concerns
Cherryl Weaver, a Realtor and former Eagle Rock resident, supports public transit expansion but has reservations about the current plan’s impact on vehicle traffic. Residents, including Nadine Levyfield, worry about diverted traffic into neighborhoods, affecting local safety and school access.
Efforts to Address Concerns
Levyfield and others have voiced concerns to Metro and local leaders, suggesting traffic mitigation measures like speed humps. Councilmember Ysabel Jurado supports the project goals while advocating for residents’ concerns to be addressed.
Community Identity and Development
Michael Schneider of Streets for All sees potential for transformation, encouraging businesses to embrace multimodal streets. Some residents, like Michael Sweeney, think the project will enhance the area, especially concerning street safety.
Business Owner Perspectives
Tom Anderson, a pub and wine shop owner, sees potential long-term benefits but worries about the impact on central town businesses. Mark Arnott, who owns a martial arts studio, doubts the area will effectively manage increased traffic. Nearby playground owner Marcel Wittfeld fears reduced parking could severely affect business.
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