Six Ways to Avoid the Impending Carmageddon

As Northeast Los Angeles residents have probably read on lighted signs while driving along the Arroyo Seco Parkway in recent weeks, the I-405 will undergo 10-mile closure between routes 10 and 101 on the weekend of July 16-17.

The specific boundaries of the closure are the 10 miles between the I-10 and U.S. 101 on the Northbound I-405 and the 4 miles between the U.S. 101 and the Getty Center Drive Ramps on the Southbound I-405.

In advance of the 53 hour closure, which is set to begin no earlier than 7 p.m. on Friday July 15, and should be completed by 5 a.m. on Monday, July 18, the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority is encouraging motorists to "plan ahead, avoid the area or stay home."

In an effort to help you do just that, here a six suggestions we think will make carmageddon far less painful.

1. Embrace Two-Wheel Transportation

What's certain is that Los Angeles' major highways; including California Routes 2, 110 and 134 as well as  Interstate-10, will all see increased congestion between the evening of Friday, July 15 and the morning of Monday, July 18. What's not certain is how neighborhood streets will be impacted. Though increased local traffic in neighborhoods like Highland Park is unlikely, this coming weekend should serve as daunting wake-up call to those of us overly reliant on cars. There are several bicycle shops in the neighborhood offering two-wheel transportation options, including the and the . For those of you in need of a tune-up, check of the , a bicycle repair co-op where you can fix up your rig with the help of a volunteer mechanic.

2. Throw a Block Party

Like it or not, we're all going to be stuck in the neighborhood together this weekend. Why not make the most of it? Stoke up your grill and toss stock up on supplies from some of the neighborhood's fine locally owned grocery shops. and both offer a wide supply of organic meats and vegetables. If you've got vegan guests, Figueroa Produce has you covered. Fresco's impressive selection micro-brews should include something tasty to sip on while you work the grill.  

3. Embrace the Local Nightlife

If you're a Highland Park resident who typically spends their weekends on the Westside or in Hollywood, there's never been a better time than now to change that. Browse Patch's directory of local bars and galleries to map out a fun and intellectually stimulating weekend.

4. Hang out in the Park

Unless you've got a private helicopter, chances are you're not going to the beach this weekend. However, you can still soak up some sun locally. Highland Park is home to several parks where you can ,  , or find a .

5. Catch a Movie

Dropping into the for an afternoon is a great way to avoid the traffic and the summer heat. Make sure you get in line early, though, as the highly anticipated conclusion of the Harry Potter series debuts this weekend.

6. Embrace Public Transportation

If you must leave the neighborhood this weekend, rail is your best bet. While you'll have to pay full price for a Gold Line ticket, you can ride for free once you hop onto the red, orange or purple lines. Select bus fares will also be reduced. Check Metro's website for more information.