After the fore (Photo – Melissa Michelson)
As the five-month anniversary of the devastating Eaton Fire approaches, Los Angeles County officials are highlighting major progress in debris removal and recovery efforts across one of the region’s hardest-hit communities.
By News Desk
Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Kathryn Barger, commended the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for their “exceptional speed, efficacy, and dedication” in leading the debris removal mission in Altadena. Their work marks a significant milestone in the area’s ongoing rebuilding process.
To date, more than 5,000 fire-impacted properties—88% of those affected—have been cleared. Of these, 3,440 properties (60%) have received final sign-off and been returned to the County for follow-up. Currently, 81 active Corps crews are working across Altadena, removing debris at a pace of 57 properties per day. Over 1.3 million tons of debris have been removed—roughly the equivalent of seven and a half Wilshire Grand Center buildings.
“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is demonstrating exceptional speed, efficacy, and dedication in their debris removal mission in Altadena,” Barger said. “Their tireless work is helping our community heal and rebuild faster than many thought possible.”
Notable progress has also been made at community sites. Charles White Park is now fully cleared, Eaton Canyon Nature Center is 95% complete, and Farnsworth Park is halfway done. All three parks are expected to be fully cleared within two weeks.
Special inclusion properties, such as the Altadena Senior Center, The Bunny Museum, and Lifeline Church, are also in various stages of clearance. Some have already been cleared, while others await final contract approvals.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues to work closely with county departments to coordinate debris removal alongside road restoration and utility installation. Their efforts involve managing over 1,000 truckloads of debris per day.
For continued updates on the recovery efforts, residents are encouraged to visit recovery.lacounty.gov.
Lake Avenue still looks terrible! What is the County’s responsibility to help businesses get back on their feet. Our community needs its small businesses!