Eagle Rock’s Historic Businesses Face New Challenges

Anthony Cafarchia grew up in Eagle Rock, where his family has operated the Eagle Rock Bakery and Deli since the 1960s. Despite surviving family losses, the pandemic, and the Eaton fire that destroyed his brother’s home, Cafarchia now fears a new bus lane project threatens their business.

“I don’t know how we’re going to benefit with this big change,” he shared. “I think it’s going to kill the business.”

Metro’s Ambitious Transit Plans

The bus route spans 19 miles from North Hollywood to Pasadena, cutting through Eagle Rock on Colorado Boulevard’s Historic Route 66 as Metro aims to boost public transit before the 2028 Olympics. The route through Eagle Rock is part of a larger network planned to facilitate transportation for Olympic spectators and strengthen public transit throughout L.A. County.

Transit advocates praise the route as a car-free option connecting San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys. However, local skepticism persists. Community members worry the route could worsen traffic, harm small businesses due to limited parking, and undermine Eagle Rock’s charm.

Legal and Community Reactions

Burbank blocked Metro from building a section, fearing traffic disruptions in residential zones. When Metro sued, a judge supported Burbank, suggesting the delay wouldn’t hinder Olympic plans. Supporters counter that the route will ultimately improve traffic for the Games and beyond, with Metro estimating 30,000 daily passengers.

“By giving people a reliable way to travel across the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys, Metro is investing in greater mobility,” a Metro statement read. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) primarily uses dedicated lanes, enhancing speed and reliability with features like all-door boarding and frequent service.

Project Costs and Construction

Metro reports project costs near half a billion dollars, largely funded through Measure M. Construction has begun in Pasadena, with Eagle Rock following soon.

The bus lane will replace a median and remove a car lane, prohibiting left turns on over ten streets, while providing dedicated lanes on remaining streets. Some street parking, crucial for local shops with only a single public lot, will be reduced.

Local Voices on Transit Changes

Realtor Cherryl Weaver questions the current plan, favoring earlier designs with shared bus and bike lanes to mitigate traffic impact.

“These long-standing community members, who have rooted their families here, are now moving due to the project,” Weaver said.

Nadine Levyfield, an Eagle Rock resident, worries about traffic impact on her neighborhood and nearby school.

“Safety is my concern, especially on our street and walking to school with my kids,” Levyfield expressed. “We’re exhausted by continually addressing this without expertise in transit.”

Residents have repeatedly requested traffic mitigation, like speed humps on side streets. Councilmember Ysabel Jurado conceded the project’s benefits and supported community concerns, urging ongoing communication with Metro.

“Eagle Rock deserves better transit and respect for its community,” Jurado stated.

Impact on Small Businesses

Business owners fear parking changes could hurt their livelihoods. Michael Schneider of Streets for All believes fears often subside once changes are implemented and notes a disconnect between perceived and actual customer arrival methods.

Former Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council President Michael Sweeney advocates for the improvements, emphasizing the role in enhancing safety.

“Safe streets benefit everyone, whether they ride the bus or not,” Sweeney noted.

Tom Anderson, owner of neighborhood pub Talon Tap and Wine, expects minimal impact but worries about downtown businesses.

Mark Arnott, a martial arts studio owner, doubts the plan’s feasibility due to existing traffic congestion.

Nearby playground owner Marcel Wittfeld fears fewer parking options would devastate his business.

“If this proceeds, it could be our demise,” Wittfeld acknowledged.