Pasadena Completes Cordova Street Complete Streets Project, Transforming City’s Transportation Landscape

The Cordova Street Complete Streets capital improvement project, which was aimed at creating 1.5-mile-long Class II buffered bike lanes on Pasadena’s Cordova Street from Hill Avenue to Arroyo Parkway along with street enhancements, has been completed.

The city’s Department of Public Works said the completion marks a significant milestone in the city’s commitment to improving its transportation infrastructure. The project, the department said, brings about transformative changes to the area’s thoroughfares, catering to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.

Construction was spearheaded by California Professional Engineering, Inc. and started in March 2023; it was completed before the end of December.

A memorandum jointly issued by Public Works Director Tony Olmos and Acting Transportation Director Joaquin T. Siques said the project started as part of the Pasadena Bicycle Transportation Action Plan.

“The successful completion of this project connects the City’s major institutions, businesses, employment centers, and shopping areas via an enhanced roadway network available to all users,” the memorandum said.

The newly configured “complete streets” layout boasts a travel lane and Class II bike lanes in each direction, a bi-directional left turn lane, parking on both sides, and crosswalk curb extensions across eight intersections. These enhancements were designed to enhance safety, reduce pedestrian crossing distances, and foster a more inclusive roadway environment.

The project also showcased the resurfacing of Cordova Street’s pavement, installation of 58 ADA-compliant curb ramps, and essential repairs to damaged concrete sidewalks, curbs, and gutters. Upgrades to traffic signal equipment and video detection for improved bicycle functionality were also integral aspects of the project’s scope.

The project was financed from Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds, Measure R Transportation Fund and Road Maintenance allocations, traffic reduction fees, and the gas tax. Community outreach and input were integral components of the design process, the Public Works memorandum said.