Letter to the Editor: Asphalt Roads on Fair Oaks

Friends,

I hate to add more fuel to the fire but did you know an ugly and unsustainable asphalt blacktop is planned for Fair Oaks?

As a concerned South Pasadena resident and as someone whose family regularly shops, walks, bikes and drives on Fair Oaks, I want to share concerns about the proposed asphalting or blacktopping of the historic cement roadway that is Fair Oaks Avenue. An asphalt-topped road will be more expensive in the long-term and will degrade this old street's historic character. Fortunately, there is an alternative; the use of cement for roadways, also called whitetopping, has many benefits over asphalt.  

Los Angeles County temperatures have increased on average by 7 degrees over the last 50 years due to heat island effect. This is largely attributed to dark heat absorbing surfaces, like those made of asphalt, according to Heat Island Group. Heat island effect causes increased energy use to cool buildings and exacerbates smog and air quality issues. Surface temperatures can also vary greatly. In the summer, asphalt temperatures can reach scalding temperatures. Many cities are cooling their climates and beautifying their city by topping asphalt roadways with concrete; the City of South Pasadena is planning the opposite for Fair Oaks.

Studies of asphalt versus cement overlays typically conclude there is a much longer lifespan and a much lower maintenance cost for concrete. On a roadway with as much traffic as Fair Oaks, fatigue induced rutting, cracking and potholes will occur. Resurfacing would need to be frequent (the study referenced above suggests every 10 years, several others suggest far less). The cost of petroleum based asphalt has risen considerably making it comparable to lighter colored and longer lasting Portland cement. Asphalt resurfacing is costly and will require regular disruptions to area businesses. No money has been set aside for maintenance. Unfortunately, this is yet another cost current and future citizens of South Pasadena will have to bear.

There are additional benefits. Night time visibility is improved on lighter cement roadways. A concrete overlay will make Fair Oaks safer for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers. Finally, our General Plan calls for the “maintenance of elements of the landscape that contribute to the attractiveness and historic character of designated historic districts and landmarks.” Asphalting Fair Oaks will ruin its historic aesthetics and make in look like Every Other Town U.S.A. Isn't it time we put a stop to this! Many of the planned improvements to Fair Oaks have the potential to improve the daily experience of its business owners, residents, and visitors. Opportunities that show that we care about our history as much as its future are rare; let’s make sure we get this one right.

Tell the City of South Pasadena not to blacktop Fair Oaks. It’s in everyone’s best interest.

Sincerely,

Drew Ready

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