Carmageddon: A Survival Guide

As Los Angeles County residents have heard repeatedly 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 the 210 along with 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 Monrovia is unlikely, this coming weekend should serve as daunting wake-up call to those of us overly reliant on cars. Check out  to buy a bike or get a tune-up.

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.

3. Embrace the Local Nightlife

If you're a Monrovia resident who typically spends their weekends in Los Angeles, there's never been a better time than now to change that. Browse Patch's directory of local restaurants and entertainment 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. Monrovia is home to several parks where you can go for a hike, toss around a frisbee, relax with a book or run around with the family dog. Get started with , , or . And don't forget: The Wonderellas will be playing 50s classics this Sunday for the city's latest Concert in the Park at Library Park.

5. 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.