Analyzing “Slow Streets LA” Impacts on Mobility and Social-Distancing

Abstract

Beginning in spring 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought about societal changes at a pace and scale rarely seen in American cities. One noteworthy innovation was the deployment of new “open streets” programs across the United States. Commonly known as “Slow Streets”, these programs temporarily convert existing right of way for vehicles toward a more multimodal space to promote outdoor activity while maintaining social distancing. In May 2020, Los Angeles launched its Slow Streets L .A. program to create space for city residents to remain physically active and socially distant amid the city’s COVID-related closure of recreational facilities. The program targeted local streets for traffic-calming measures, deploying temporary signage advising drivers to slow down when entering designated Slow Street corridors. Months after the city deployed more than 50 miles of Slow Street corridors, Los Angeles City Council passed a motion to make some corridors permanent. While the program has been positively received, the motion comes at a time when little beyond anecdotal evidence is known about the effectiveness of the program it hoped to reinforce. This research attempts to fill this knowledge gap, analyzing the impacts of Slow Streets L.A. on mobility and community recreation in neighborhoods that received the Slow Street designation. It was found that, in high density neighborhoods such as Koreatown, traffic was reduced but speeds increased. Community sponsors confirm ongoing concerns of vehicle speeds even after Slow Street designation. On the other hand, 70% of respondents stated that the designation made it easier to enjoy the neighborhood while following public health guidance.

About the Project

The Covid-19 pandemic has forced a series of social distancing measures upon Angelenos and prevented public access to many traditionally community spaces. Fears of infection have disincentivized many from public transit, severely limiting the mobility of those without cars. This project will look to see how closure of local streets may substitute public recreational space and promote active transportation. My project will analyze the current “Slow Streets” program by the Los Angeles Department of Transportation, which attempts to slow local traffic in select streets to create recreational opportunities in the city. I look to analyze the effects of Slow Streets in two capacities – public perception and mobility impact.