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.