Get your walking shoes ready, your bike serviced and your brakes checked, because CicLAvia is rolling back into the Eastside for its 15th birthday.
On Sunday, October 12, streets will be closed to cars and open for biking, walking, skating and playing as part of the free, family-friendly event.
The 7-mile Heart of LA route connects Boyle Heights to Westlake, Downtown LA, Chinatown, Little Tokyo and the Arts District.
While the event promises fun, celebration and community connection, it may also inconvenience those living in the neighborhood or commuters in the area.
This year, Boyle Heights Beat will be tabling at CicLAvia to share our community-centered reporting with those enjoying the event.
Here’s what to expect from this year’s CicLAvia if you live, work or play in Boyle Heights.
What time is CicLAvia?
CicLAvia runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 12. Street closures will begin as early as 6 a.m. Sunday, so plan ahead.
What streets in Boyle Heights will be affected?
Stretches of 1st Street, St. Louis Street, Whittier Boulevard and the 6th Street Bridge will all be closed to car traffic. Check out the full event map here.
I live along the CicLAvia route. Can I leave my car parked on the street?
No street parking is allowed along the CicLAvia route from 1 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. If your car is parked in a driveway and you need to use it, you’ll need to move it by 7 a.m. Sunday before the route closes.
Will I get towed if I leave my car parked on a closed street?
Yes, according to a CicLAvia representative, cars left along the route are at risk of being towed.
Are there other parking options for residents?
- Free parking is available at the Boyle Heights City Hall lot (135 S. Chicago St.) from 6 p.m. Saturday to 6 p.m. Sunday.
- Overnight parking is allowed, but parking is first-come, first-served.
- Cars must be removed by 6 p.m. on Sunday or may be towed.
- If the City Hall parking lot is full, Metro recommends residents park at the lot at 249 N. Chicago St.
Can CicLAvia reimburse me for parking costs from that weekend?
Yes! CicLAvia will reimburse up to $20 per car for parking costs incurred between 8 p.m. Saturday, October 11 and 6 p.m. Sunday, October 12.
To request reimbursement:
- Email a copy of your parking receipt and proof of residence to info@ciclavia.org
- Use “Parking Reimbursement” in the subject line
Will I be able to drive across the closed streets in Boyle Heights?
Yes. The intersection of 4th Street and St. Louis Street will allow car crossing during the event.
What kind of vehicles are allowed at the event?
Only people-powered vehicles are allowed, including bikes, skateboards, scooters, and skates.
Motorized wheelchairs and mobility devices for people with disabilities are allowed. E-bikes are allowed with some restrictions. See the full guidelines here.
Where can I find Boyle Heights Beat along the route?
The Heart of LA route will feature multiple hubs across neighborhoods, including one in Boyle Heights. See an interactive map of activities along the route here.
- Boyle Heights Beat staff and youth reporters will be stationed at the Mariachi Plaza Hub from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by to pick up our latest print edition and learn how community members are shaping local news.
- The LA Local, which powers Boyle Heights Beat, will be at the MacArthur Park Hub. Swing by to meet the team and find out how you can support accessible, community-centered journalism and learn about their new coverage area serving Koreatown, Pico-Union and Westlake.
- You can also say hi to our partners at LAist, who will be at the Little Tokyo Hub on Central Avenue between 1st and 2nd streets.
