Introduction to Eaton Fire Cleanup Efforts
Nearly all of the damage from January’s deadly Eaton fire has been cleared. Crews have removed almost 99 percent of ash and debris from properties damaged in the January wildfire, Pasadena Now reported. As of this week, 5,527 properties, or about 98.6 percent of those enrolled in the Los Angeles County-run debris removal program, have been cleared.
Progress of Debris Removal
Of those properties, 5,471, or 97.1 percent, have had their rights-of-entry returned, allowing rebuilding efforts to get moving. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Col. Sonny Avichal, who has overseen debris cleanup efforts, gave his final briefing on Monday as work winds down at several major sites. In this next phase, 12 cleanup crews remain at work, though demobilization is underway and is expected to last two more weeks.
Collaboration Among Agencies
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have worked in tandem on the debris program. Once properties are cleared, homeowners will be able to start rebuilding with the help of insurance, state disaster grants, and federal aid.
Support for Rebuilding Efforts
Southern California Edison, which allegedly sparked the fire in Altadena with a faulty powerline, is offering residents money through a wildfire compensation fund. The company is currently facing multiple lawsuits from survivors and local governments, including the City of Pasadena, over damages and recovery costs. The Southern California chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects is among those entities ready to step in to help with reconstruction design efforts, according to LAist. The group of architects has created approximately 200 free individualized plans to help people rebuild after losing their homes as part of its “Rebuild Readiness” effort.
Restrictions on Rebuilding
Meanwhile, rebuilding in the Pacific Palisades just got a bit more restrictive after Mayor Karen Bass issued an executive order Thursday barring multiple dwellings being built on wildfire-affected properties in the neighborhood, per L.A. Business First. The move, bolstered by a similar state order from Gov. Gavin Newsom, stops any redevelopment that would’ve been enabled by Senate Bill 9, which permits property owners to split their lots into two and build up to four housing units on what was previously one single-family-zoned lot.
Current Status of Rebuilding Permits
As it stands, Los Angeles County has issued 149 rebuilding permits in the affected areas, including 133 in the Eaton fire burn zone and 16 in the Pacific Palisades, according to the county’s permitting progress dashboard.
Related News
Army Corps’ Altadena home debris removal nearly half complete. Post-wildfires, shipping containers, 3D-printed homes provide temporary shelter. Altadena, Palisades fire victims turn to ADUs amid glacial rebuild process.
Conclusion
The completion of the Eaton fire cleanup efforts marks a significant milestone in the recovery process for the affected communities. With nearly all debris removed and most properties cleared, homeowners can now focus on rebuilding their lives and homes. The support from various agencies and organizations will be crucial in this process, providing necessary resources and guidance for those affected by the wildfire.
FAQs
- Q: What percentage of properties have been cleared of debris?
A: Almost 99 percent of ash and debris have been removed from properties damaged in the January wildfire. - Q: How many properties have had their rights-of-entry returned?
A: 5,471 properties, or 97.1 percent, have had their rights-of-entry returned. - Q: What support is available for rebuilding efforts?
A: Homeowners can receive support from insurance, state disaster grants, federal aid, and organizations like the Southern California chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects. - Q: Are there any restrictions on rebuilding in the Pacific Palisades?
A: Yes, Mayor Karen Bass has issued an executive order barring multiple dwellings being built on wildfire-affected properties in the neighborhood.
