As the five-month anniversary of the Eaton Fire approaches next week, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger is spotlighting the significant progress made by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in their debris removal mission across Altadena. Their efforts mark a critical milestone in the ongoing recovery and rebuilding process for one of the County’s hardest-hit communities.
To date, over 5,000 fire-impacted properties (88%) have been cleared, with 3,440 sites (60%) receiving final sign-off and returned to the County for follow-up. The Corps currently has 81 active debris removal crews operating in the area, sustaining a clearance rate of 57 properties per day, and has already removed over 1.3 million tons of debris—equivalent to approximately seven and a half Wilshire Grand Center buildings.
“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is demonstrating exceptional speed, efficacy, and dedication in their debris removal mission in Altadena,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “Their tireless work is helping our community heal and rebuild faster than many thought possible. I wholeheartedly appreciate their commitment and am proud to work alongside them as we support Altadena’s road to recovery.”
Progress is also evident at key community sites. Charles White Park is fully cleared, Eaton Canyon Nature Center is 95% cleared, and Farnsworth Park is halfway complete. All parks are projected to be fully cleared within two weeks.
Special inclusion properties such as the Altadena Senior Center, The Bunny Museum, and Lifeline Church are in various stages of clearance, with some already completed and others pending final contract approvals.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues to coordinate closely with Los Angeles County departments to align debris removal with road restoration and utility installation efforts, managing more than 1,000 truckloads of debris per day.
For more updates on recovery efforts, visit recovery.lacounty.gov.