The City of Walnut has begun construction at the Grand Ave. and La Puente Road intersection to help with traffic, access and safety. The project includes widening the road, installing traffic signals, upgrading underground stormwater infrastructure and adding new signs. From 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays, workers will rebuild the road and will conclude around April 2026.
The Walnut City Council is working with RKA Consulting Group, the engineering firm for the city, to add an additional lane. The project also plans to address current issues, including long vehicle commute time and pedestrian welfare.
During construction times, safety measures such as lane closures and reduced speed limits will be implemented. Maintenance Superintendent Kenny Martinez will oversee the work. Mail letters and social media posts have been used to raise awareness for public outreach efforts.
“The goal is to enhance civic pride by promoting public safety and easing traffic congestion in the city. The long-term goals for Walnut infrastructure are to ensure the city of Walnut is well-maintained and to implement improvements that promote overall public safety,” Martinez said.
Many students also take the route to go to school. Freshman Rachel Meng has noticed the recent changes during her daily morning commute. The construction occurs right around the time she drives through the road.
“We live pretty far away from Walnut. My mom has stressed about it, making me want to wake up earlier and dress and eat faster. I also have a little brother, and she wants to send us to school faster so we don’t waste much time,” Meng said.
Junior Chris Barrows takes the route to drive to school, and has noticed the heavy construction especially around the bridge area. It takes him an extra 15-20 minutes just to get to the intersection, impacting his drive particularly in the morning.
“I hope that when it’s done, it’ll really clear up the traffic because I’ve noticed that the lanes have become a lot bigger, and they are opening more of the bridge. I feel like it also adds nice scenery, and it cleans up the area,” Barrows said.
