Why L.A.'s $1.4 Billion Sidewalk Repair Case Is Such a Big Deal

In the city where “everybody drives,” sidewalks and other accommodations for people who aren’t in cars have often seemed an afterthought. But with a landmark settlement to fix its badly broken sidewalks announced last week, Los Angeles is moving toward a future in which its infrastructure for non-drivers will get some long-needed attention.

The settlement comes in response to a class-action lawsuit filed under the Americans with Disabilities Act, which alleged the city did not maintain its sidewalks “in a condition that is useable by class members who rely on wheelchairs, scooters, and other assistive devices to get around.” The agreement (still pending a judge’s approval) means L.A. could commit a stunning $1.4 billion over the next 30 years to repairing and upgrading sidewalks, installing curb cuts, and ensuring access to crosswalks.