River

The area of the L.A River that could use beautifying is the area along the railyards and near Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. The railyards are quite unattractive, and the area could be revitalized by revitalizing this section of the river.

It is extremely important to revitalize and restore the L.A. River, because it is an important part of our environment and our existence. Restoring the river will help store more flood runoff, which our water challenged area dearly needs, and it will enhance water quality from the current conditions in many areas of the river. Restoring the river also beautifies the area and creates more parks and green spaces for citizens to enjoy, and it creates a much more appealing area in neighborhoods. Now, the railyards are ugly, noisy, and unappealing. Restoring this area would create a much more appealing area.

Changes in the current area would include removing the cement aqueduct currently in use, and creating green strips that would funnel storm water into the river, while creating attractive parks and open spaces along both sides of the area. The railyards would have to be relocated, or at least hidden from view, and in-channel water treatment facilities could be included to help improve water quality throughout the area.

I envision layered terraces that are attractive and function, and still protect the neighborhoods from extensive flooding. Above the terraces, there are green strips, trees, and plants that encourage wildlife, and walking paths so people can get out and enjoy more than a big cement aqueduct. Perhaps a wall could be constructed to hide the railyards, and a mural could be added to the wall to help beautify the area, too. The vision could be accomplished if the Army Corps of Engineers approved, and decided it was necessary. The biggest challenges would probably be funding, and moving the railyards if that was agreed upon.

References

Editors. "Los Angeles River Revitalization." LARiver.org. 2009. 23 Oct. 2009.

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