This old freeway

The sinkhole that stalled traffic on the Pasadena Freeway underscores some aging issue with what was L.A.'s first freeway. How bad is it? Here's this from The Times' Francisco Vara-Orta:

The nearly 70-year-old highway marked the beginning of Southern California's freeway system -- and it is one of the few roads in the country to have won national historic preservation status. 
But for all the art deco tunnels, graceful bridges and natural landscaping, state engineers say the 110 is straining against 21st century traffic conditions and sheer age. The freeway was built in an era when aesthetics in some ways trumped functionality. As a result, the 110 has no shoulders -- and lush plants and trees grow right next to the lanes.  Often, Caltrans must step in to trim back trees, remove fallen debris and replace damaged signs smacked by vans and trucks driving down the narrow lanes. With no shoulder, this roadwork causes crews to close lanes and disrupt commuters, said Caltrans maintenance supervisor Rick Enriquez, who has been working on the Pasadena Freeway for the last eight years. 

Over at The Daily Mirror, Larry Harnisch offers some great photos about the early days of the Pasadena Freeway. He has an early map that makes you wonder what is possible: "Note the Silver Lake Parkway, which was not built."

Comments

[John E. McCue]

It would be wonderful if our leaders had some sense of priority. For example:
water, food, medical care, education and infostructure and defense.
After those are taking care of if there is any money it would be okay for them to diddle with a personal favoite
Jack

[Ruby Jackson]

After looking at the map, I would venture to say the Silver Lake Parkway is now simply Silver Lake Blvd.