Santa Monica Mountains Motorway – Los Angeles CA

Description

According to a Dec. 15 1938 report by the Los Angeles Fire Department:

“Programs of motorway and trail construction, which for years have been carried on in the Santa Monica Mountain area through various agencies, lately to a much greater degree through W. P. A. under the direction of the City Engineer, have in my opinion eminently proved their value to the Department. Without fire roads on the east and west ridges of Mandeville Canyon, the fire could not have been reached and undoubtedly would not have been brought under control at this point. These roads have made it possible to move large numbers of men and much equipment rapidly through the mountain area. Their importance in this and future emergencies that may arise must not be lost sight of.”

The WPA report for Southern California lists this as project #524 Santa Monica Mountains Motorway Construction, and gives a breakdown of funds and labor:

Federal Funds – $1,535,359
Sponsors Contribution – $72,087
Total – $1,607,446
Average Men Employed Per Month – 945
Months Duration – 24

Even on weekday mornings today, the motorways remain very popular with hikers and bicyclists.