LOS ANGELES – Here’s what state and local leaders are saying about the recent partnership between Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom to help house Angelenos living in encampments near freeways:
Bob Blumenfield, Los Angeles City Councilmember:
“Caltrans is an essential partner in our local infrastructure and mobility, and I am pleased they will also be a collaborator in keeping freeway areas clean and clear as we all prioritize addressing homelessness and keeping our communities safe through this MOU.”
Hugo Soto-Martinez, Los Angeles City Councilmember:
"It's so important for leaders to come together across levels of government to cut red tape and allow us to better serve our communities. I want to give special thanks to Mayor Bass for leveraging her experience in Sacramento, Washington DC, and LA to make this happen."
Toks Omishakin, California Transportation Secretary:
“This innovative agreement further strengthens the growing partnership between CalSTA, Caltrans and the City of Los Angeles and demonstrates our mutual commitment to cleaning up our public spaces and keeping this world-class city beautiful. I commend Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass for their leadership and determination to roll up their sleeves and help put this agreement together quickly.”
Gloria Roberts, Caltrans District 7 Director:
“We appreciate the assistance and partnership with the city of Los Angeles to help us keep our freeways clear, clean and litter free. Thanks to Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass for their commitment to freeway beautification for all Angelenos.”
Barbara Romero, General Manager of Los Angeles Sanitation & Environment:
“We are delighted to have this partnership moving into place to add more resources to a cleaner Los Angeles for those who live and work in this wonderful city. Thank you to Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom for the leadership and prioritization of this important issue.”
Nolan Marshall III, Executive Director of South Park Business Improvement District:
“Housing the most vulnerable Angelenos is not only a moral imperative, but an urgent priority to accelerate our nascent pandemic recovery in Downtown. Prioritizing clean and safe gateways is a welcome investment that will be appreciated by visitors, workers, and residents to all of our downtown neighborhoods.”