Azusa, Glendora Receive Award For Barranca Avenue Improvement Project

The cities of Azusa and Glendora joined forces to improve what was once a deteriorated section of Barranca Avenue at the border of the two cities.

But instead of the usual repaving project, the cities applied new recycling technology that would not only offer a more sustainable alternative to the improvement project, but also allow a more cost-efficient option.

The section on Barranca and Route 66 is considered one of the busiest intersections in Los Angele s County in terms of traffic.

Both Azusa and Glendora earned the Project of the Year Award in the small cities category from the Southern California Chapter of the American Public Works Association.

Using cold in place recycling technology, the existing asphalt is recycled and used  as the final cap of new asphalt. When 1,700 tons of asphalt is recycled, there is less to aggregate, emulsion and energy to produce when expending, according to a press statement.

Pulverizing and using the asphalt as a base provides a stronger base, which will last longer, say city officials.

The two cities completed the project in 6 days.

 “Two neighboring cities working together to save money for all residents fits with our city’s mission and I am very proud of our staff for making this happen.” said David A. Davies, Director of Public Works, in a press statement.