The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) Board on Sept. 24 approved the Bicycle Friendly Streets Plan, which was developed by the Mid-City West Community Council (MCWCC).

The Bicycle-Friendly Streets Project will create new routes for cyclists along Rosewood Avenue, and Formosa Street/Alta Vista Avenue. A traffic signal will be installed at major thoroughfares, including La Brea and Rosewood avenues (pictured). (photo by Edwin Folven)

The Metro Board approved approximately $1.8 million in funding for the project, which will be matched by approximately $483,000 in funding from the city of Los Angeles.

The plan calls for Rosewood Avenue from La Cienega Boulevard to La Brea Avenue to be designated as a “bicycle friendly” route, as well as Formosa Street/Alta Vista Avenue from Romaine Street to Third Street. The plan will be implemented in 2020.

Traffic calming measures will be installed along the routes. New traffic signals will be installed where the streets cross major thoroughfares. Right-turn only signs, intended to prevent cut-through auto traffic, will be installed at the major intersections, but cyclists will be allowed to pass through.

Other amenities include new signage for cyclists, a roundabout at the intersection of Formosa and First streets, and “bicycle boxes” – painted boxes on the pavement where cyclists wait ahead of motorists.

MCWCC chair Scott Epstein said the project is a proactive way to make the streets safer and more inviting for cyclists.

“We are thrilled,” Epstein said. “It’s something we have been working on for two years now.”

Metro spokesman Dave Sotero said the new project aligns with the agencies goals to promote alternative forms of transportation.

“This project will help bicyclists more easily navigate mid-city streets and create a better bicycle connection between Metro’s existing and planned subway stations.”