UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies

This paper explores the enduring impact of freeway construction on urban neighborhoods and communities, focusing on Los Angeles. The legacy of freeways in Los Angeles, often and purposefully constructed through marginalized communities during the mid-20th century for the benefit of white suburbanites, is reflected in significant social, economic, and environmental symptoms today. This paper also examines de-freeway methods to reconnect these divided communities, assessing their need and effectiveness through data analysis and case studies.The case studies presented in this paper offer a diverse range of solutions. They include the capping of I-5 for Freeway Park in Seattle, the tunneling of the Central Artery for Boston's Big Dig, the activation of I-5 underpasses for Chicano Park in San Diego, and the creation of the Ricardo Lara embankment park along the I-105 freeway in Lynnwood. These examples provide valuable insights into the processes, challenges, and successes of de-freeway and community reconnection efforts, showcasing the adaptability of these solutions in different urban contexts.The paper introduces three design proposals for freeway sites across six communities in Los Angeles. These proposals are guided by urban reformation around freeways and incorporating urban design principles prioritizing social equity, environmental sustainability, and economic revitalization for the most vulnerable and impacted communities. The proposed designs aim to restore community cohesion and foster resilient urban ecosystems.This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable urban transformation and the reclamation of public spaces for community benefit by providing a comprehensive analysis of historical impacts and contemporary solutions. The paper's findings should help inform and guide urban planning and policy advocates and professionals inspired by the reconnecting communities movement, underscoring the need for innovative approaches to mending bifurcated and ecologically disadvantaged communities.