Connecting with Community in Monterey Park

At Mark Thomas, we believe great engineering starts with real conversations. That belief was demonstrated during the recent Independence Day celebration hosted by the City of Monterey Park. Our team had the opportunity to participate in the event by hosting a booth and engaging directly with community members about the Garvey Avenue Capacity Improvements Project.

Garvey Avenue is a vital east-west corridor that connects Monterey Park’s downtown area, including City Hall, Barnes Park, and the U.S. Post Office, to the heart of the city’s residential neighborhoods. The corridor also serves as a major destination for visitors from across the greater Los Angeles area, known for its markets, restaurants, and local businesses that reflect the city’s cultural heritage. Classified as a four-lane minor arterial with on-street parking, Garvey Avenue also connects the City’s Spirit Bus Routes 3 and 4 with LA Metro bus routes.

The Garvey Avenue Capacity Improvements Project is designed to improve mobility, safety, and connectivity. The project will increase traffic capacity, enhance public transit and bus flow, upgrade curb ramps to meet ADA standards, and improve pedestrian safety throughout the corridor. It also includes new bikeways and mobility enhancements along Newmark Avenue and Emerson Avenue, which run parallel to Garvey Avenue.

This outreach event was more than an opportunity to share information. It was a chance to listen. Residents, business owners, and daily commuters shared their concerns, ideas, and stories that added valuable perspective to our work. These conversations remind us that engineering is not just about design and infrastructure; it is about serving the people who use these spaces every day.

Community input plays a critical role in shaping projects that are both functional and meaningful. It helps us design spaces that meet real needs and reflect the values of the community. That process always begins with listening.

We are grateful to everyone who stopped by to speak with us and help shape the future of their city. At Mark Thomas, we are committed to designing transportation solutions that put people first at every step.