Merced Avenue Greenway Project

South El Monte Wins Prestigious John Sanford Todd Award 

for Merced Avenue Greenway Project

The City of South El Monte has been honored with the Annual Municipal Seminar John Sanford Todd Award for the Merced Avenue Greenway Project, a visionary initiative that exemplifies the Contract Cities model of creating impactful, sustainable partnerships. This prestigious recognition celebrates South El Monte’s leadership in transforming a historically underserved corridor into a resilient, green, and community-centered asset.

A Vision Realized Through Collaboration

First conceived in 2015, the Merced Avenue Greenway Project stands as a testament to what is possible when cities, nonprofits, and communities come together with a shared vision. Designed to capture and treat stormwater, improve regional water quality, and promote greener, healthier neighborhoods, the project embodies a long-term commitment to environmental justice and innovation.

At its core, the Greenway features a pioneering 1.3-mile Class IV elevated bike lane integrated with cutting-edge green infrastructure—offering a replicable model for urban sustainability. With support from community-based organizations including the Council for Watershed Health, Active SGV, and Climate Resolve, South El Monte’s commitment to inclusive, multilingual engagement ensured the project would reflect the needs and values of the people it serves.

Transformative Impact on Environment and Community

Phase I of the project—covering 0.65 miles—was recently completed and celebrated by more than 200 community members, partners, funders, and elected officials during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 1, 2025. It includes critical features such as bioretention planters, permeable pavement, and infiltration chambers, all working together to reestablish the natural water cycle and significantly reduce pollutants (by 30–85%) in downstream water bodies like Legg Lake and the Rio Hondo.

The project also improves air quality and provides much-needed shade in a region historically lacking tree canopy. With 133 new trees and native landscaping, residents will enjoy cleaner air, cooler temperatures, and a more walkable, bikeable neighborhood—all contributing to enhanced livability and public health.

Building a Blueprint for the Future

Beyond physical improvements, the Greenway Project is a powerful example of process innovation. Its success was built on years of trust-building, multilingual outreach, and the thoughtful inclusion of community voices at every stage. City Council actions in 2024 further bolstered momentum by allocating LA County Safe Clean Water Program Municipal funds to advance Phase II design and engagement.

To date, the partnership has secured an impressive $11.8 million in construction funding. With Phase II set to reach 100% Construction Documents this summer, South El Monte is not only realizing its green infrastructure vision—it is shaping a new paradigm for urban development.

A Model for Other Cities

The Merced Avenue Greenway Project demonstrates what’s possible when cities embrace innovative partnerships. By transforming a modest corridor into a vibrant, multi-benefit community asset, South El Monte has not only improved the daily lives of its residents—it has provided a scalable, equity-driven model for others to follow.

The John Todd Award affirms this achievement and shines a light on the powerful results that can emerge from public-nonprofit collaboration, deep community engagement, and long-term vision. South El Monte is proud to lead the way toward a greener, more resilient future for all.

For more information, visit Merced Avenue Greenway.