Buena Park city officials have approved a comprehensive overhaul of Valley View Street, a 2.85-mile thoroughfare extending from Lincoln Avenue to Artesia Boulevard. This project, which recently gained approval from Buena Park, will impact sections within Buena Park, La Palma, and Cerritos. Buena Park will serve as the lead agency for the estimated $4,700,000 rehabilitation, which aims to repave the street, repaint faded lines, and enhance the overall driving experience for commuters.
Funding for Buena Park’s portion of the project will come from the city’s Measure R, a 1-cent sales tax measure adopted by voters in 2024, according to Buena Park Mayor Connor Traut. The total estimated cost is approximately $4,700,000. La Palma's estimated share for its portion is $900,000, while Cerritos is estimated to contribute $575,000. Under a cooperative agreement, these cities will reimburse Buena Park upon project completion and will review and approve plans for their respective segments.
The planned improvements include asphalt pavement rehabilitation, along with the removal and replacement of damaged curbs, gutters, cross gutters, and sidewalks. Utility adjustments, which involve leveling manholes, pull boxes, and water valves to the new asphalt surface, are also part of the scope. New signing, striping, traffic control plans, and additional signage are anticipated. The project will also address non-compliant Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps where needed, integrating them into the design process.
Buena Park Public Works Director Mina Mikhael stated that the project's purpose is to "provide and enhance a corridor" that serves residents and businesses across the three cities, aiming to revitalize an important street for all travelers. Valley View Street currently has an average Pavement Condition Index (PCI) of 65, classified as "fair" by the 2026-2032 Citywide Pavement Management Plan, with some segments in "poor" condition. Mikhael noted existing structural failures, asphalt cracking, and faded line striping. While the project will not include traffic light synchronization, it will focus on roadway paving and potential enhancements to signage and striping. The addition of designated bike lanes is being explored, though the street's width may present challenges for such accommodations, according to Mikhael.
Buena Park staff are currently finalizing the project design and anticipate advertising for bids this month. Construction is projected to commence in January 2027 and is estimated to be completed within approximately four months. The city plans to minimize traffic disruptions during construction through a phased approach, working on certain lanes or during off-peak hours.
