(CLAIR) – The Simi Valley 118 Freeway Beautification Project is a $3.9 million initiative aimed at enhancing the on- and off-ramps along the 118 freeway from First Street to Yosemite Avenue. The project is part of the Clean California initiative, which seeks to remove trash, transform public spaces, and create jobs.
The project involves installing rock cobble in place of dead and dying groundcover and planting native, drought-tolerant plants in selected areas to control erosion, provide a pollinator habitat, and enhance the visual experience for the community.
Caltrans has collaborated with the local community to ensure that each interchange receives a different plant pallet and aesthetic motif that provides a unique placemaking aesthetic to each location, as per community requests.
According to Caltrans, this project along with dozens of other similar projects throughout California, is expected to create an estimated 3,600 jobs, providing a significant boost to local economies.
A virtual information meeting was held last year to provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about the project and provide feedback. Those who missed the meeting can visit the cadot website to view the details.
The project was originally expected to commence last year and be completed by June 2023.
The Simi Valley 118 Freeway Beautification project is a noteworthy endeavor that promises to enhance the visual appeal of the area, control erosion, and create job opportunities for the local community.
As Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin explains, “This project is undoubtedly a positive step forward, and it is hoped that similar projects will be undertaken in other areas as well.”
