Crews across Los Angeles have filled thousands of potholes since a series of record-breaking winter storms, but city officials acknowledge that broader resurfacing projects have yet to resume, leaving some residents and business owners questioning how much progress has been made.
NBC4 cameras captured numerous potholes on Friday on streets in neighborhoods including Pacoima and Sun Valley, underscoring the lingering impact of heavy rain that battered the region over the holidays.
Mayor Karen Bass on Friday highlighted the city’s response, even picking up a shovel to fill a pothole herself as she announced recent repair numbers.
Since the storms began several months ago, nearly 10,000 potholes have been repaired citywide, according to city officials. This week alone, crews addressed nearly 300 tree-related incidents and repaired almost 300 potholes, the mayor said.
Still, the head of the Bureau of Street Services confirmed that no city streets have been repaved or resurfaced since last summer.
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“That is correct,” said Keith Mozee, the bureau’s general manager, when asked about the pause in resurfacing work. “But I’ll tell you this, in the last quarter of this fiscal year, we’re going to be paving 60 lane miles of streets.”
Los Angeles has approximately 23,000 lane miles of streets, according to the Bureau of Street Services.
For some local businesses, the damage has translated into brisk business.
At Anthony’s Tires in Sun Valley, owner Antonio Valencia Medina said his shop has been busy repairing vehicles damaged after drivers hit potholes during the recent storms.
“Potholes is the number one problem for them and number one for making money for me,” Medina said.
He said many customers have come in frustrated after damaging tires and suspension systems.
Despite the city’s repair efforts, some residents say more comprehensive street improvements are needed to prevent recurring damage.
Mayor Bass urged residents to report potholes by calling 311 or using the city’s MyLA311 app, saying public reports help crews respond more quickly.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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