Eastside Traffic Navigates Running Beyond City Limits
Eastside Traffic was founded in August 2022 in Whittier, United States, inspired by Eddie’s experience of returning to the Eastside of Los Angeles. Traveling farther from the urban core meant dealing with heavy city traffic to join former running groups like Silverlake Track Club. Looking for an alternative, he found Liberty Community Plaza, a local space with a track, and decided to start a running crew for others facing similar obstacles. The crew’s name reflects its roots. Eastside represents their neighborhood identity, while Traffic symbolizes the barriers they aim to overcome. Their greyhound logo pays homage to race-track dogs and Greyhound buses, evoking memories of long-distance travel that are part of their community’s upbringing.
Running As An Accessible Shared Journey
Eastside Traffic’s mission focuses on making running inclusive and welcoming, creating a community united by shared goals for mental and physical well-being. The team promotes confidence, camaraderie, and support, aiming to be authentic and genuine. Their informal motto to “be dope AF” reflects a spirit of empowerment and pride in each member’s progress, fostering a space where everyone’s pace and story matter.
A Close-Knit Collective Rooted In Resilience
Although a small crew, Eastside Traffic embodies a close-knit community of like-minded runners who connect beyond the pavement. Their gatherings at Liberty Community Plaza are welcoming to everyone and reinforce a culture of mutual encouragement. This diverse group reflects the Eastside’s character: gritty, determined, and grounded in shared experiences, where each member’s presence strengthens the whole.
Regular Runs That Balance Challenge And Connection
The crew hosts runs focused on tempo and moderate paces, covering various distances from short to half marathon training. Although specific schedules are not provided, members gather at Liberty Community Plaza for sessions that mix purposeful workouts with social support. This method helps runners build endurance and speed while staying connected to the local community and each other.
Open Doors For Every Runner
Membership is open to everyone at no cost, showing Eastside Traffic’s commitment to accessibility. Prospective members can join simply by showing up, taking part in a run, and becoming part of the community. The lack of barriers encourages inclusivity and ensures that no runner is excluded due to financial or social challenges.
Positioned As A Beacon Beyond Downtown Los Angeles
Eastside Traffic sets itself apart in the Los Angeles running scene by focusing on the Eastside neighborhoods outside the city’s busy center. The crew’s presence emphasizes a different pace of life and running culture, one that is less shaped by the dense downtown area and more by suburban challenges and community gathering spots.
Whittier’s Blend Of Suburban Calm And Urban Pulse
Whittier provides a backdrop that balances quiet residential streets with lively pockets of local activity. The city’s atmosphere lets runners escape busy traffic areas while still experiencing a vibrant local spirit. This setting aligns with Eastside Traffic’s focus on avoiding urban congestion in favor of open, communal spaces.
Liberty Community Plaza As A Running Hub
The crew’s headquarters, Liberty Community Plaza, acts as a central meeting spot with a track that supports training needs. Nearby routes likely wind through local parks and neighborhood streets, offering a diverse and accessible environment for runners to build stamina and enjoy their workouts.
Local Races And Events For Growth And Celebration
While specific races are not specified, Eastside Traffic’s focus on training for distances up to half marathons indicates participation in regional events around Los Angeles. These opportunities provide members with milestones to reach and celebrate, strengthening the crew’s dedication to progress and community spirit.