The rain couldn’t dampen the celebration at councilmember Mitch O’Farrell and LA Department of Transportation General Manager Seleta Reynolds took a ceremonial first walk on Sunday through the new scramble crosswalk at the intersection of Hollywood & Highland.

Councilmember O’Farrell and Manager Reynolds addressed a crowd of business owners and local residents regarding LA’s goal to eliminate traffic fatalities as a part of the city’s Vision Zero initiative. This new scramble crosswalk at one of LA’s busiest intersections is expected to reduce such tragedies. They were joined by the Hollywood High School marching band and ROTC cadets to add to the day’s festivities.

A scramble crosswalk allows pedestrians to cross an intersection from all corners and in all directions, even diagonally, during the walk phase. No right turns are allowed by vehicles at these intersections. While traffic may be slightly delayed for vehicles, the safety benefits will outweigh any minor inconvenience for drivers.

Check out some pictures of the event below!

 Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell addresses the crowd celebrating the opening of the Hollywood & Highland scramble crosswalk. 

The Hollywood High School marching band helped create a festive atmosphere at the ceremony. 

 Yours truly taking my first diagonal crossing through the Hollywood & Highland intersection.