Skip to Content
Streetsblog California home
Streetsblog California home
Log In
Damien Talks

#DamienTalks Episode 19: CicLAvia’s Romel Pascual and the Rise of Open Streets

Today, Damien talks with Romel Pascual, the new executive director of CicLAvia, the non-profit that programs arguably the most popular Open Streets program in America.

Pascual comes to the new position with a strong background in Los Angeles' Open Streets Movement. He served as Deputy Mayor to Antonio Villaraigosa when the first CicLAvia was planned five years ago and has served on its Board of Directors.

For people that believe in the power of Ciclovía-style events to bring change, this is the interview for you. Pascual discusses how CicLAvia helped change the complexion of the streets in Downtown Los Angeles and other communities from both the perspective of an advocate and the perspective of a former high-ranking city official.

Pascual also answers the growing urban legend that "we got CicLAvia because Mayor Villaraigosa got bike religion after he was forced off his bike."

We’re always looking for sponsors, show ideas, and feedback. You can contact me at damien@streetsblog.org, at twitter @damientypes, online at Streetsblog California or on Facebook at StreetsblogCA.

Thanks for listening. You can download the episode at the Damien Talks homepage on Libsyn.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog California

Don’t Believe the Hydrogen Train Hype

Calling hydrogen-powered trains "zero emission" is misleading at best - and even if they were, they lost the race to be "first" a long time ago

July 16, 2024

Upcoming CicLAvia Maps: August in the Hollywoods, September in Lincoln Heights, and More

Mark your calendars: August 18 in West Hollywood through East Hollywood, September 15 in Lincoln Heights, October 13 in the Heart of L.A., and December 8 in the Valley

July 16, 2024

These Are the Most Dangerous Congressional Districts for Pedestrians

The deadliest congressional districts in America are dominated by BIPOC communities — and federal officials need to step up to save the most vulnerable road users.

July 16, 2024

Call to Action: Demand a Safe West Portal

The San Francisco Transit Riders wants YOU to urge the SFMTA Board of Directors to approve stronger West Portal safety and transit improvements The post Call to Action: Demand a Safe West Portal

July 16, 2024

Tuesday’s Headlines

Riding public transit for pleasure; How to increase the numbers organizing for street safety; Don't "turn down the rhetoric"; More

July 16, 2024
See all posts