Today, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger joined California Governor Gavin Newsom and leaders of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the United States Army Corps of Engineers to launch the next phase of debris removal from private property in the community of Altadena. She issued the following statement following the morning’s launch event:
“The swift response and partnership of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is nothing short of herculean. Since the fateful day the Eaton Fire ignited, the loss the community has suffered has seemed insurmountable at times. But, today is proof that progress and hope are alive. The launch of the federally supported debris removal program is a testament to the results we can deliver when we work together.”
The destructive Eaton Fire–which now ranks as the second most destructive wildfire in California history–has destroyed more than 9,400 structures in an area of nearly 22 square miles. Most of the buildings affected were single-family residences. Places of worship, small businesses, and schools were left burned to the ground.
Today’s launch builds upon the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s work that is already well underway to first remove hazardous household waste from properties.
Los Angeles County’s Department of Public Works and its partner agencies have worked urgently and incessantly to collect Right of Entry forms from residents and complete other logistical essential elements to support this second phase of debris removal work, including developing haul routes and safe ash and debris transportation plans. Wildfire survivors can sign up for the debris removal program by visiting recovery.lacounty.gov.