A 2.5-mile corridor of land owned by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power in Arleta could be repurposed as park space, under a proposal from Los Angeles City Councilmember Imelda Padilla.
The stretch of 30-adjacent parcels on Canterbury Avenue, which is sometimes known as the "Nursery Strip" due to the nursery companies which lease some of the lots, also includes areas used for construction staging, parking, and other uses. Citing issues such as overgrown vegetation, illegal dumping, and graffiti, Padilla is making the case for repurposing this land as community green space with walking paths and other recreation areas.
"The 'Nursery Strip' presents a unique opportunity for revitalization given its size, central location, and potential to serve as a linear park or greenway in a neighborhood that lacks adequate public open space," reads the motion, which notes that several past studies have identified the utility corridor as an opportunity site for new green space. Likewise, Padilla ties the proposed repurposing of the Nursery Strip to LADWP's LA100 Equity Strategies, which are intended to ensure the city's transition away from fossil fuels benefits disadvantaged communities.
The motion, which has been referred to the Council's Energy and Environment Committee for consideration, asks for a report back within 90 days from LADWP and other departments to report back on a maintenance and cleanup plan for the Canterbury Avenue land, as well as on the feasibility of repurposing the land as open space. The motion also requests that LADWP work with Council District 6 on community engagement sessions with regards to the project.
Several jurisdictions within Los Angeles County are similarly planning to use vacant land below power lines for public open space, including Los Angeles County itself in the unincorporated communities of Florence-Firestone and East Los Angeles.
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