Debris removal operation underway in Altadena (Photo – Kevin Nha, US Army Corps of Engineers)
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has officially launched Phase 2 of wildfire debris removal in Los Angeles County, marking a key milestone in the region’s recovery efforts following recent wildfires.
By News Desk
The initial sites for clearing include two schools in the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD)—Loma Alta and Edison—where crews began removing hazardous debris to pave the way for rebuilding and restoring safety to these educational facilities.
In coordination with FEMA, as well as state and local partners, USACE is leading the effort to clear fire-damaged debris, following strict environmental and safety guidelines. This phase follows Phase 1, which focuses on the removal of household hazardous materials by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For properties deemed unsafe by the EPA, USACE handles “make safer” operations before beginning Phase 1 and Phase 2 debris removal.
As Phase 2 progresses, Loma Alta and Edison are the first of several PUSD facilities undergoing cleanup.
Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Blanco expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts: “The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. This debris removal effort allows us to begin the recovery process with confidence, and we are deeply grateful for the support from USACE, FEMA, and all our local partners.”
FEMA Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton highlighted the significance of this phase: “Debris removal is a key step toward rebuilding these communities. FEMA remains fully committed to supporting local communities throughout the recovery process.”
Col. Eric Swenson, Commander of the Los Angeles Wildfires Recovery Field Office for USACE, emphasized the Corps’ commitment to swift and safe progress: “The commencement of Phase 2 signifies real progress toward recovery. Our teams are working with urgency and care, ensuring the safety of both the community and our workers, while also maintaining environmental responsibility.”
Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, emphasized the collective effort driving the recovery: “This marks a welcome milestone in our recovery efforts. By working together on an expedited timetable, we are ensuring that our communities and facilities are restored quickly and safely. It’s crucial that we continue this momentum so that residents can see, hear, and feel the progress.”
Phase 2 debris removal will expand in the coming weeks to include residential properties across Los Angeles County.
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