City secures $7M grant for Azusa Avenue traffic improvements and ADA compliance

West Covina City Council has taken significant steps to enhance traffic safety and infrastructure during its recent meeting on April 1, 2025. The council approved a grant application aimed at improving major intersections, which will include the installation of new signal equipment and pedestrian safety measures.

The grant, which was highly competitive with over 400 applications submitted, will allow the city to implement three specific countermeasures from the local safety manual. These improvements are expected to address critical safety concerns at intersections, particularly at Avar and Westport, which has been a focal point for community safety discussions. The planned upgrades will feature new signal heads, leading pedestrian intervals, and protected left turn phasing to facilitate safer traffic flow.

City officials indicated that while the grant application was successful, the implementation process will be lengthy, with construction anticipated to begin in 18 to 24 months due to necessary approvals and paperwork. Council members emphasized the urgency of these improvements, particularly in light of federal funding timelines, which could impact the availability of the $7 million allocated for the synchronization and ADA compliance project along Azusa Avenue.

The council is actively working to expedite the design phase of the Azusa Avenue project, with plans to post a Request for Proposals (RFP) for design work this year. This project aims to enhance traffic signal synchronization and ensure ADA compliance, making the corridor safer for all users, especially those with disabilities.

In addition to these major projects, the council discussed ongoing work at the Vince and Puente intersection, which is expected to see completion in the coming months. The urgency surrounding these infrastructure improvements reflects the council's commitment to enhancing public safety and accessibility throughout West Covina.

As the city moves forward with these initiatives, residents can expect significant upgrades to traffic safety measures that will ultimately contribute to a safer and more efficient transportation network.