Los Angeles is moving to permanently seal a century-old pedestrian tunnel adjacent to Soto Street Elementary and a daycare in Boyle Heights after it became a magnet for squatters, drug use, fires, and trash.
The tunnel, originally built to help kids cross busy streets safely, now poses a direct safety risk. Temporary fencing failed—people repeatedly broke through. Parents have called 911 multiple times.
Councilmember Ysabel Jurado introduced a motion to close it permanently. The city still needs engineering reviews, funding, and outreach to those using the tunnel.
Residents and childcare workers report heavy drug activity, human waste, graffiti, and fires inside. A structure meant to protect children is now so dangerous the school can't operate normally.
The debate: Why keep open an underground passage next to an elementary school when it's filled with hazards and people who shouldn't be near kids?
City officials say the answer is clear—seal it.
The tunnel, originally built to help kids cross busy streets safely, now poses a direct safety risk. Temporary fencing failed—people repeatedly broke through. Parents have called 911 multiple times.
Councilmember Ysabel Jurado introduced a motion to close it permanently. The city still needs engineering reviews, funding, and outreach to those using the tunnel.
Residents and childcare workers report heavy drug activity, human waste, graffiti, and fires inside. A structure meant to protect children is now so dangerous the school can't operate normally.
The debate: Why keep open an underground passage next to an elementary school when it's filled with hazards and people who shouldn't be near kids?
City officials say the answer is clear—seal it.