About SideTracked
This cache belongs to the SideTracked series. It is not designed to take you to a magical place with a breathtaking view. It's simply a cache-and-dash distraction for the weary public transport user, which can be found at or near train stations, former train stations, and miniature railroads. There are currently over 4,500 SideTracked caches in more than 30 countries around the world. More information can be found on the SideTracked series website.
This cache was placed in conjunction with the SideTracked 16th anniversary celebration week.
About This Station
The Azusa Downtown station is one of two Metro stations in Azusa, both of which are part of the A Line of the LA Metro Rail System. Passenger service began on March 5, 2016.
It is located east of Azusa Avenue and consists of side platforms with the track in the middle. As part of the project, Alameda Avenue was permanently closed to accommodate the new platforms.
The station’s architectural and artistic design elements, by Jose Antonio Aguirre, integrate motifs and pictographs drawn from the cultural traditions of the Native American Gabrielino tribe and the architectural forms of the early California Spanish-Colonial Mission style. The fusion of the two histories captures the cultural significance of the local area reflected in the civic identity of Azusa.
Beginning at the access ramps, the artist used concrete stencils to create interpreted pictographs of the Gabrielino culture. The combination of three stylized motifs brings an abstract surface texture to the ramps, which over time will come to resemble the elusive rock paintings of early inhabitants of the area. Standard paving materials for the platform were enhanced by the inclusion of larger local aggregate with a heavier sand blast finish to depict a dry river bed surface that flows down the entire center section of the platforms in a meandering pattern.
Perhaps the most ambitious and sculptural feature is the unique arched portal to signify the Alameda, or Grand Parkway, to the community. The Spanish colonial-style archway is approximately 16 feet from ramp to top. The arched section of the portal is made from architectural concrete. The top is made of metal and is illuminated at night, casting a glow that back-lights the word AZUSA. This was inspired by the original AZUSA sign located on Foothill Boulevard and created in 1923.
The final design element is the inclusion of hand-made mosaic compositions inspired by basket weavings from the local tribes of the San Gabriel Valley region.
About This Cache
The cache is just off Metrolink property, per SideTracked guidelines. You shouldn't have any trouble grabbing it if you have 5-10 minutes to spare before your train arrives.
