This week we return to our traditional two-interview format for a special edition featuring an interview with a sitting member of the United States Congress.

Kris Fortin interviews Representative Judy Chu about the San Gabriel Mountains Foothills and Rivers Protection Act (HR 2215). Chu’s legislation would add over 51,000 acres of protected forest land to the federally protected land surrounding the San Gabriel Mountains.

In our second interview, Damien talks with Melanie Curry, the editor of Streetsblog California, about four pieces of legislation that are coming up for a final vote in the legislature soon. That list includes a bill that would finally put an end to any notion to extend the 710 freeway northward, and one that would require Caltrans to add more complete streets elements when repaving or repairing state highways inside of cities.

To get in touch with your state legislator about any of these bills, visit CalBike or Active SGV.

SGV Connect is supported by Foothill Transit, offering car-free travel throughout the San Gabriel Valley with connections to the new Gold Line Stations across the Foothills and Commuter Express lines traveling into the heart of downtown L.A. To plan your trip, visit Foothill Transit. “Foothill Transit. Going Good Places.”

Catch past episodes of SGV Connect and #DamienTalks on LibSyn, iTunes, Google Play, or Overcast.