Councilmember Ara Najarian Secures $400,000 in Funding for Glendale’s Open Streets Event

· September 5, 2024

GLENDALE—Glendale Councilmember Ara Najarian, who also serves as the Los Angeles Northern Cities representative to Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority Board of Directors, announced that the City of Glendale was awarded a $400,000 Metro Open Streets grant. The grant will be used to fund Glendale’s upcoming Open Streets event on May 31, 2025.

The Open Streets event will transform Glendale Avenue into a vibrant, pedestrian and bicycle-friendly corridor, stretching from Doran Street to the Larry Zarian Transportation Center.

It underscores the importance of active transportation, community engagement, and economic vitality by temporarily closing Glendale Avenue to motorized vehicles. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the area on foot, bike, or skates, enjoying the culturally rich restaurants, shops, and businesses that line the avenue.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity for families and individuals to experience Glendale in a new way, promoting mobility and transportation alternatives,” said Councilman Najarian. “I am very proud to have played a role in securing the necessary funding to make this event a reality.”

The event is free and open to the public, offering a day of fun and exploration without the presence of cars. Glendale Avenue will be closed to motorized traffic, allowing participants to enjoy a safe and enjoyable environment for biking, skating, jogging, and walking.

The $400,000 in full funding was approved by the Metro Board in January of this year.

Councilman Najarian has been a long-time advocate for active transportation initiatives, having been one of the original supporters on the Metro Board for funding bike-friendly events throughout Los Angeles County. Out of 30 applicants for the LA Metro’s Open Streets Grant Program, Glendale is one of only four cities to receive full funding.