Skip to Content
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Log In
Streetsblog CA

#DamienTalks Episode 19: CicLAvia’s Romel Pascual and the Rise of Open Streets

Today, Damien talks with Romel Pascual, the new executive director of CicLAvia, the non-profit that programs arguably the most popular Open Streets program in America.

Pascual comes to the new position with a strong background in Los Angeles' Open Streets Movement. He served as Deputy Mayor to Antonio Villaraigosa when the first CicLAvia was planned five years ago and has served on its Board of Directors.

For people that believe in the power of Ciclovía-style events to bring change, this is the interview for you.Pascual discusses how CicLAvia helped change the complexion of the streets in Downtown Los Angeles and other communities  from both the perspective of an advocate and the perspective of a former high-ranking city official.

Pascual also answers the growing urban legend that "we got CicLAvia because Mayor Villaraigosa got bike religion after he was forced off his bike."

We’re always looking for sponsors, show ideas, and feedback. You can contact me at damien@streetsblog.org, at twitter @damientypes, online at Streetsblog California or on Facebook at StreetsblogCA.

Thanks for listening. You can download the episode at the Damien Talks homepage on Libsyn.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog Los Angeles

Eyes on the Street: Santa Monica’s New Michigan Avenue Greenway Extension

The 1/8-mile-long Michigan Avenue Neighborhood Greenway (MANGo) extension includes two short bike/walk paths and one block of two-way protected bike lanes

October 12, 2024

Three Big Open Streets Events Remain This Year, Including CicLAvia This Sunday!

Roll, walk, skate, smile at: CicLAvia - Heart of L.A., Beach Streets Uptown, and CicLAvia - the Valley

October 10, 2024

L.A. City Council Committees Approve Road Widening Reforms

The city Bureau of Engineering proposal should minimize road widening at future private developments, but there are several widening situations it does not address, including BOE's own road widening projects

October 10, 2024
See all posts