632_Eaton Wash Corridor Plan

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Eaton Wash Corridor PlanA Part of the Emerald Horseshoe Trail

Prepared for the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy

Made possible by a grant from Southern California Edison

Consultant:Mark . Thomsen . Thompson Planning Group

Robin Mark Jennifer Mitamura Thomsen

Holly Thompson

2011


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Foreword

In 2008, the Arroyos and Foothills Conservancy1 began development of the Emerald HorseshoeConcept Plan with a goal of meeting the needsof the region for accessible and connectedrecreational trails and open space. The Emerald

Horseshoe is a conceptual trail and park systemthat would connect the mountains to the cities.It would begin indowntown Los Angeles, runthrough the Arroyo Seco on the west side, to thefoothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and thento El Monte, and through Eaton Wash on the eastside. This trail and park system is itself connectedto other trails and conceptual trail plans, includingthe Emerald Necklace, the trail systems in the SanGabriel Valley and San Gabriel Mountains, and theArroyo Seco.

The east side of this trail system follows the EatonWash, an historical stream that today is managedas a ood control channel as water makes its wayfrom the mountains to the Rio Hondo. Makingthe Eaton Wash Trail into reality will require muchplanning, focusing on segments through several jurisdictions. Community support is essential toovercome the hurdles inherent in building a newtrail system in the 21st Century. This report is thebeginning of what we hope will lead towards a

comprehensive trail system that brings people tonature, and nature to people.

As we developed this plan, many people gave oftheir time and energy to tell us their hopes anddreams for the trail. We heard support for a trailthat spans communities and brings nature intoour cities. We also heard about the challenges thatwill be faced when developing a new recreationaltrail. I want to thank everyone who participatedin workshops, attended meetings, and sent

comments. I also want to thank Holly Thompson,Jennifer Mitamura Thomsen, and Robin Mark, fortheir devotion to the Eaton Wash trail.

In the spirit of the great outdoors,

Nancy L.C. Steele,PresidentArroyos and Foothills Conservancy

1Founded as the Altadena Foothills Conservancy; the namewas changed in 2009.


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D e s

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Contents

Chapter

Executive Summary

1 Introduction

2 Analysis

3 Outreach

4 Design Development

5 Implementation & Phasing

6 Appendices

References


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1.1 Project Background1.2 Project Area History1.3 Project Area1.4 Goal, Issues & Objectives

1. Introduction


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Project BackgroundIn 2008 the Arroyos and Foothills Conservancy(AFC), formerly the Altadena FoothillsConservancy, contracted with the California StatePolytechnic Universitys graduate LandscapeArchitecture Studio to prepare the EmeraldHorseshoe Concept Plan. This plan details a multi-use urban trail system in the Los Angeles region.Eaton Wash, along with the Arroyo Seco andAltadena Crest Trail, make up the three legs ofthe Emerald Horseshoe trail system. Shortly aftercompletion of the Emerald Horseshoe ConceptPlan it became apparent that numerous studiesand master plans had been completed for boththe Arroyo Seco and the Altadena Crest Trail, yet astudy speci c to Eaton Wash did not exist.

In order to create a cohesive and regionallyconnected trail and open space system, ascalled for in the Emerald Horseshoe ConceptPlan, the issues unique to Eaton Wash neededto be more fully examined. Taking a closerlook at Eaton Wash and creating a plan speci cto its needs was imperative. The Arroyos andFoothills Conservancy once again led the chargein establishing a clear vision for Eaton Wash - acontinuous multi-purpose corridor from themountains in Eaton Canyon to its con uence

with the Rio Hondo. This proposed Eaton WashCorridor would not only be a key componentof a larger recreation and open space plan forLos Angeles, but would also initiate a dialoguebetween the community and local government,helping to garner support and funding forproject implementation. This study wassupported by a grant from Southern CaliforniaEdison.

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Emerald Horseshoe Concept Plan

Trail Access along the Emerald Horseshoe

1.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND


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Eaton Wash Corridor Plan

1.2 PROJECT AREA HISTORY

Project Area HistoryEaton Wash historically owed from the SanGabriel Mountains gathering and distributing

water, sediment and rock into the valley below. There it met with other washes and fed the RioHondo and Los Angeles Rivers and eventuallydrained into the Paci c Ocean. The Wash wasnamed after Judge Benjamin Eaton who inthe 1860s used the Washs steep slopes andintermittent ow to grow and irrigate his grapes(Eaton Canyon Nature Center 2002). In 1916drastic ood control measures initiated thechannelization of Eaton Wash, thereby limitingits ecological function (Robinson 1991). Some ofthese functions included

percolation and ooding that allowed vitalmountain water and nutrients to replenishvalley aquifers and soil,providing habitat for native riparian plantsand animals andallowing people to interact with a natural andbeautiful watercourse.

The channelization of Eaton Wash for oodprotection hindered natural hydrologic processesand began a snowball effect that has left thesurrounding area lacking the native habitat andwildlife that rely on these processes. Historically,the Los Angeles region was rich with uniqueplant and wildlife communities many of whichhave vanished that have all but vanishedas development increased and open space

dwindled. Particularly along watercourses, suchas Eaton Wash, riparian vegetation, sh andamphibian species have declined. In their placeaggressive non-native species, which thrive indisturbed habitats, have taken over and becomeprevalent throughout the County.

Today native plants, wildlife and the undevelopedopen space that houses them have been pushedto the fringes of the Watershed. Natural areashave been reduced and segregated from theurban core of the County remaining primarily inthe mountains. The urbanized center desperatelylacking any real respite from the concreteand asphalt. Eaton Wash provides the perfectopportunity to reintroduce a bit of nature intothe urban core.

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Eaton Canyon 1916

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Eaton Wash 2010, Temple City


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1.3 PROJECT AREAProject AreaEaton Wash, as it exists today, may be seenin Figure 1.3-2, Eaton Wash. The Eaton WashCorridor project area that will be addressedin this planning document is outlined by adashed black line in Figure 1.3-3, Project Area. Itincludes the Wash and land within 1/8 mile fromthe Wash south of the City of Pasadena. TheCity of Pasadena was not included because atthe time of the study, it was anticipated the Cityof Pasadena would conduct its own planningefforts within its jurisdictional area.

Starting at the southern boundary of the Cityof Pasadena, just south of Eaton Blanche Parkand north of San Pasqual Street, the Eaton WashCorridor runs 5 miles to its con uence with the

Rio Hondo. It passes through unincorporatedLos Angeles County, Temple City, San Gabriel,Rosemead and El Monte dropping 381 feet inelevation as it travels south (Figure 1.3-1, ProjectElevation Pro le). The adjacent neighborhoods,businesses and streets, thickly woven into theurban fabric, are detached from any real openspace or natural environment. Highlightingand naturalizing even a small portion of thishistorical wash will add the calm, beautyand health that any amount of open spaceinherently brings.

600 feet

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0.0 miles 0.6 1.2 1.8 2.4 3.0 3.6 4.2 4.8 5.4

El MonteL.A. County

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Figure 1.3-1, Project Elevation Pro le

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Existing Maintenance Road along Eaton Wash

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Eaton Wash, Temple City


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El MonteEl Monte

RosemeadRosemead

Sierra MadreSierra Madre

San MarinoSan Marino

ltadenaAltadena

UnicorporatedUnicorporatedLos ngelesLos AngelesCountyCounty

San GabrielSan Gabriel

PasadenaPasadena

Figure 1.3-2, Eaton Wash0 0.5 1 mi.

1.3 PROJECT AREA


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1.4 GOAL, ISSUES & OBJECTIVES

Goal The goal of the Eaton Wash Corridor Plan is tocreate a comprehensive plan for a continuous,ecological and multi-purpose trail along EatonWash through unincorporated Los AngelesCounty, Temple City, San Gabriel and Rosemead

to the con uence with the Rio Hondo in ElMonte. The following issues and objectiveswere derived from community workshops andinvestigation by the consulting team.

Issues & ObjectivesRecreation, Open Space & Community Issues

Recreation and open space is insuffi cientfor the current population in communitiesadjacent to Eaton WashAccess to Eaton Wash is prohibited The community has expressed concern oversafety along Eaton WashMultiple jurisdictions along Eaton Washcomplicate a coordinated planning effort

Recreation, Open Space & CommunityObjectives

Create a connected multi-use trail alongEaton WashCreate pedestrian, bicycle and equestrianaccess to Eaton WashEnhance public safety along Eaton WashDesign spaces that promote the health and

well-being of the publicEncourage municipal and publicinvolvement in the development of aCorridor Plan

Water, Plants & Wildlife IssuesHydrologic function is impairedGround and surface water quality aredegradedLocal water resources cannot sustain presentor future populationsHabitat for native vegetation and wildlife arenegatively impacted by development

Water, Plants & Wildlife ObjectivesImprove hydrologic function while providing

ood protection for residentsImprove quality of ground and surface waterIntegrate Watershed Best ManagementPracticesImprove existing habitat and connectivityPromote environmental stewardship

Existing Access to Eaton Wash S o u r c e :

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2.1 Regional Context2.2 Recreation & Open

Space2.3 Existing Conditions

2. Analysis


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9Eaton Wash Corridor Plan


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2.1 REGIONAL CONTEXT

Regional ContextIn large-scale planning projects, such as theEaton Wash Corridor, it is important that theissues facing a site not be examined on anabstract level but understood in relation to theWatershed or region as a whole. Eaton Wash

plays an important role in the Los AngelesRiver Watershed; therefore, analysis began withthe larger L.A. region. The Emerald HorseshoeConcept Plan was used as a resource for thisanalysis for its extensive mapping and analysis ofthe social and physical conditions of Los AngelesRiver Watershed. The Emerald HorseshoeConcept Plan may be found online at the Arroyosand Foothills Conservancys website:

http://www.arroyosfoothills.org/restoration_emerald.html

Figure 2.1-1, Regional Context, shows the EatonWash Corridor Project Area within the LosAngeles River Watershed.

Examination of the Project Areas existingconditions was the next phase of analysis. It wasimportant to establish exactly what the projectarea looks and feels like to the average cyclist orpedestrian. Existing trail width, land use and land

ownership were all examined at the parcel level.Local schools, within mile of the trail, werealso identi ed to further understand the sitespotential users.

All this analysis culminated in the creation of theOpportunities and Constraints Map, Figure 2.3-2. This map identi es both the opportunities forand constraints to the creation of a continuousCorridor. This map was essential in the planningprocess and led to speci c design solutions.

Los Angeles River Watershed

Emerald Horseshoe Project Area

Eaton Wash Corridor Project Area

Figure 2.1-1, Regional Context

Angeles National Forest

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County Trails & Open Space The connection of the Eaton Wash Corridor toother existing recreational and open spacesis a key indicator of its importance. Withthe implementation of the 5 mile Corridoradditional access to hundreds of miles of trailswould be secured. The Eaton Wash Corridorwould serve not only its immediate communitybut also the entire Los Angeles County by

tying into local and regional trails. The abovemap (Figure 2.2-1, County Trails and OpenSpace) was taken from the Emerald HorseshoeConcept Plan and illustrates the various localand regional trails to which the Eaton WashCorridor will connect. One example of sucha connection is the Emerald Necklace trailsystem. This trail system may be accessed fromthe Corridors southern end allowing users to

connect to additional trails that lead south tothe coast and north to the mountains. If theCorridor should continue north through theCity of Pasadena it would also connect to theAltadena Crest Trail and consequently all of theAngeles National Forest Trails, the Gabrielino Trail, and eventually the Paci c Crest Trail, whichextends the entire West Coast.

In March of 2010 the Secretary of Transportationdeclared that across the country bicyclistsand pedestrians would get the same priorityas cars and trucks, meaning more Federalmoney allocated toward projects geared forbiking and walking (NPR 2010). (Please seethe Implementation and Phasing chapter forinformation on potential funding sources).

According to Congressman Earl Blumenauerfrom Oregon, , bicycle and pedestrian paths areprecisely the kind of infrastructure projects ourcountry needs. These projects tend to be themost shovel-ready and are more labor-intensivethan other projects--therefore putting morepeople to work per dollar spent (Blumenauer2009). In addition to providing bene cialinfrastructure and jobs, trail projects exactly likethe Eaton Wash Corridor help individuals whouse trails to save in auto-related costs, reducetheir carbon emissions, save on gasoline, reducearea traffi c, burn calories and lessen heart-related diseases and health insurance claims. The Eaton Wash Corridor would provide each ofthese bene ts to the surrounding communities..

LegendSigni cant Ecological Areas (SEAs)

Paci c Crest TrailGabrielino TrailEmeral Necklace

Rim of the Valley BoundaryOther Existing Trails

Emerald Horseshoe Project Site

2.2 RECREATION & OPEN SPACE

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EmeraldNecklace

Emerald Horseshoe

Figure 2.2-1, County Trails & Open SpaceN

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Existing County Bike Trail


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County Bicycle Master Plan The County of Los Angeles Bicycle Master Planincludes a comprehensive study and plan for allbicycling issues in the unincorporated areas ofLos Angeles County. The Plan is an update to theCountys adopted Plan of Bikeways from 1975

and a sub-element to the General Plan. It seeksto increase bicycling in Los Angeles Countythrough the development and implementationof bicycle-friendly policies, programs andinfrastructure (County of Los Angeles BicycleMaster Plan 2010). The Plans very rst objectiveis to propose new bike paths along ood controlfacilities within Los Angeles County makingthis plan signi cant in the preparation of theEaton Wash Corridor. The Planning Group metwith County staff members involved with the

Master Plan on September 8, 2010 to ensure theirknowledge of the Corridor project. The BicycleMaster Plan process began with the rst publicworkshop in February of 2010. Adoption of theplan is scheduled from January to September of2011.

2.2 RECREATION & OPEN SPACE

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Eaton Spreading Basin atRancho Mangana Road

1 East Las Tunas Drive2 3 Lower Azusa Drive

Railroad crossing North of ValleyBoulevard

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2.2 EXISTING CONDITIONS

NFigure 2.3-1, Existing Conditions

Existing Conditions The existing conditions of the Eaton WashCorridor project area may be seen in Figure2.3-1, Existing Conditions. Much of the Washis lined with galvanized chain link fencingand encased in concrete. Busy arterialstreets pass over and alongside the lengthof the Eaton Wash while houses, schools andbusinesses turn their backs to it. Fenced-offbackyards, parking lots, and cinder blockwalls line the Wash. People living, attendingschool or working next to the Wash mayhave no idea it is even there. The purposeof this project is not only to create a planfor a multi-use trail along Eaton Wash but tohighlight the watercourse itself. Those livingin the region should know that Eaton Wash,

as well as all the other washes coursingthrough Los Angeles County, is an asset thatcommunities should face, employ and enjoy.

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Vacant parcel along ValleyBoulevard

5 Con uence of Eaton Wash andRio Hondo

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2.3 EXISTING CONDITIONSExisting Width AssessmentFigure 2.3-2, Trail Width Assessment, assessesthe width of the existing maintenance roadson both the west and east sides of Eaton Wash.Measurements were taken every quarter milebeginning at the Washs con uence with the RioHondo.

The varying widths of the existing right-of-wayindicate the speci c areas along Eaton Washwhere trail implementation would be diffi cult. The County of Los Angeles requires a minimumof 12-feet for its maintenance vehicles. Class Ibicycle paths must also be a minimum of 12-feetwide. Any segment of road less than 12-feetwide, labeled in red, would require wideningor expansion to become suitable for trail users.

The wider areas, shown in black, indicate thatsegment of trail being ready for users. There isone segment, in Temple City near the railroad,with no existing right-of-way. Opening thissegment to the public would require workingwith property owners, through a Joint UseAgreement, an easement or property acquisition,to create a 12-foot wide right-of-way.


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Arcadia

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Figure 2.3-3, Land Use


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Land OwnershipFigure 2.3-3, Land Ownership, shows that themajority of land within the project area is privatelyowned. Most of the remaining parcels, shownin yellow, are owned by Los Angeles CountyFlood Control District and used for maintenanceoperations on the channel. If any propertyacquisition or easements are needed to widen thetrail or create accompanying parks and amenities,private property owners will need to be consulted. This map also reveals the magnitude of theoutreach effort that will need to be conducted withresidents and businesses as implementation drawsnear.

Fee-Easement Maps The preliminary analysis of Eaton Wash also

included determining any restrictions on adjacentparcels, such as easements. Maps obtained fromLos Angeles County Flood Control District highlightwhich parcels along the Wash contain easements,are owned in fee by the District, or have quitclaimsattached to them. These 11 maps may be found inthe Appendices section.

Legend

Private

Public

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Figure 2.3-3, Land Ownership


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Local SchoolsEight schools lie in mile, walking distance, toEaton Wash. The Eaton Wash Corridor wouldbe used by these students for much-neededenvironmental education. The Corridor wouldact as a living classroom where studentswould learn about place, ecology and thechallenges facing land management andconservation. The Corridor would also provideaccessible open space for physical education.Implementation funding for the EatonWash Corridor may also be found in Federalprograms such as Safe Routes to Schools,given the Corridors potential as an alternativemode of transportation, off busy arterialroads, to and from local schools. For moreinformation on potential sources of funding,

see the Implementation and Phasing chapterof this document.

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1 Clairbourn School

2 Emperor Elementary School

3 Jefferson Middle School

4 Madison Elementary School

5 San Gabriel Academy

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Figure 2.3-4, Local Schools


N.T.S


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ADJACENT BUSINESSESOpportunity for connections withexisting commercial hubs

NFigure 2.3-5, Opportunities & Constraints

0 500 1,000 feet

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COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENTDesire among some communitymembers and environmentalgroups for access to Wash,adjacent trails, improved habitatand water quality

ADJACENT SCHOOLSOpportunity for youthinvolvement, education andenvironmental stewardship

ADJACENT PARKSOpportunity for connectionswith existing and proposedparks

EXISTING MAINTENANCEROADSOpportunity for multi-purposetrail, water percolation and/orstorage, water cleansing,habitat, wildlife movement andenvironmental education

VACANT PARCELSOpportunity for additionalhabitat and/or recreation

EXISTING RESERVOIROpportunity for additionalhabitat and/or recreation inexisting County Flood Controllands

COMPETING RIGHT-OF-WAYSNo safe/convenient passage fortrail users to traverse or travelalong major roads

FRAGMENTED CORRIDORNo safe or convenient passageacross, through or around the10 freeway

AIR POLLUTIONExisting air pollution, especiallyadjacent to freeways, degradeswater quality and negativelyimpacts aquatic life*

ADJACENT RESIDENCESLocation of Wash behindresidences may hinderacceptance of a public trail

SURFACE POLLUTIONExisting surface pollutiondegrades water quality andnegatively impacts aquatic life*

LACK OF HABITATNo existing riparian habitat dueto channelization

GROUND POLLUTIONExisting ground pollutiondegrades water quality andnegatively impacts aquatic life*

CONTINUOUS CONCRETE-LINED CHANNELWhile providing ood protection,the concrete box channel limitshydrologic function includingpercolation, ground waterrecharge, vegetation growth andpresence of riparian habitat andspecies

NO PUBLIC ACCESSAccess to the right-of-way isrestricted at various points byvarious jurisdictions.

FLOOD CONCERNSAny modi cations will need toensure adequate conveyancecapacity for ood management

E TON W SH

E A T O N W A S H

2.3 EXISTING CONIDTIONS

*Please see Emerald Horsehoe Concept Plan, Appendix A, for air, surface and ground pollution mapping


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3.1 Workshops 1 and 23.2 County Meeting

3.3 Workshops 3 and 4

3. Outreach


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3.1 COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS 1 & 2

Group Discussion

Workshop Analysis Boards

All community workshop images were taken by: Darin Mark and Jennifer Thomsen

Community WorkshopsFrom its inception, public participation was akey component of the Eaton Wash CorridorProject. The diveristy of cities the Washtravels through mandated that workshopsbe conducted in multiple locations withcommunity members from different socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. TheCompton Creek Regional Garden Master Planand the Hollywood Freeway Central ParkFeasibility Report both served as models forworkshop agendas. The feedback gathered atthese workshops directly informed the designprocess, thus generating a concept planrooted in community support.

Workshops 1 & 2

The rst two workshops were held at theAltadena Community Center and theRosemead Community Center. Attendancefor each workshop was 23 and 15 respectively. The purpose of these workshops was tointroduce the community to the idea ofa recreational trail along Eaton Wash andgain a clear understanding of any desires orconcerns associated with the project. A briefbrainstorming session was held to provideattendees the space to voice their desiresand concerns. No judgments were madeand everyones ideas were recorded. Duringthis session the Planning Group discusseda variety of questions such as, Who willmaintain the trail? and Who owns the land?

Next, community members participated in adesign charette where they were asked tomark-up large aerials of the project site withcomments and design ideas. Locations of

access points, bridges connecting the eastand west sides of the Wash and connectionsto local schools were recommended. Allinput from these meetings was compiled andused to create the Draft Concept Plan thatwas presented at the next set of meetings.


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Charette Feedback - Connections to Emerald Necklace

Charette Feedback - Trail Access

Charette Feedback - Bridges along Trail

Charette Feedback - Bike Trail Connections

Design Charette

3.1 COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS 1 & 2


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3.2 COUNTY MEETING

Access

Restoration & Wildlife

Recreation

TrailC rossing

Amenities

Existing Conditions Precedent Design Solutions

RiverRestoratio nSouth Platte River,Denver,Colorado

Bike PathLosAngelesRiver

Stormw ater Best Ma na gement Prac tic es Dog Wa ste Stations

OpenSpace

Safe StreetC rossing & Bike Friendly IslandVictoria, British Columb ia

FullyShielde d LightFixtures Drinking Fountains

Open Space beneath SCEPowerCorridor Johnny Carson Park,Burbank,California

Decorative AccessGateLosAngelesRiver,AtwaterVillage

Picnic Tables Trash & Recycling Bins

Interpretive Signage

Existing Accessto Eaton Wash atE.Broadwayin Temple City

Existing Maintenance Road along EatonWash atLoftusDr.in Rosemead

OpportunityforHabitatRestoration atRancho Mangana Reservoir

Open Space Opportunitiesalong SCEPowerCorridor

Co mmunity Idea sfrom Workshops 1 & 2

Safe Crossing Needed atallMa jorRoads

Community Workshop, Rosemead

Design Solutions Presentation Board

Community Workshop, Altadena

County MeetingGiven that the Corridor Plan recommends the useof Eaton Wash maintenance roads, land ownedand maintained by the County Department ofPublic Works (DPW), it was important to meetwith and record the DPW representatives initialthoughts on the project. This meeting gaveCounty representatives from the Water Resources,Watershed Management, Programs Developmentand the Flood Maintenance Division the chanceto express their initial concerns about the projectdirectly to members of the Planning Groupand Nancy Steele of the Arroyos and FoothillsConservancy. Throughout the meeting concernsover liability, safety, maintenance, water quality,operations and ownership of the right-of-waywere discussed. Any improvements to the

Eaton Wash Corridor need to be consistent withthe operational needs of the facility for FloodManagement purposes. Recommendations weremade to incorporate safety signage into theCorridor Plan along the Wash and near the EatonSpreading Basin. Also, the County-approved LosAngeles River Master Plan Landscaping Guidelinesand Plant Palettes Manual was suggested as aguide for all planting design and installation donewithin the Corridor.

Workshops 3 & 4 The second set of community workshops wereheld at the Garvey Center in Rosemead and atthe Altadena Community Center. These meetingswere held to present the Draft Concept Plan andobtain feedback on how well the ideas expressedat the rst round of meetings were incorporated.Most of the desires and concerns expressed at the

rst two workshops fell into six categories: access,recreation, restoration and wildlife, trail crossings,

open space and amenities such as benches,drinking fountains and signage. These categoriesbecame the areas of focus for the design thatwent into the Draft Plan.

The Plan included a bicycle path on the west sideof Eaton Wash and a Pedestrian/Equestrian trail onthe east. The Plan also included access points atevery street that crossed the Wash, urban trails anda proposal that the vacant parcels in the adjacent


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3.3 COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS 3 AND 4

What We Heard:DESIRES CONCERNS

Access Multiple points of Access/Pedestrian

Access Access for Schools/Connect to

Schools Access Roads Minimize Street

Crossings Universal Access Bike Access Bridges

Amenities Restrooms Use of Solar Energy Signage Bridges Mile Markers Maps Benches Tables Drinking Fountains Shade Trash Receptacles Doggie Stations Recycle Bins Signage of Local Bus Times Mileage Signage Similar to

Rose Bowl

Access Safe Access Timing of Access 24-hour Access Emergency Access No Bike Access through Eaton

Canyon Nature Center Park/ Altadena Crest Trail

Maintenance No County Involvement in Maintenance Good Quality Maintenance Equestrian Maintenance Graffi ti Prevention

Restoration/Wildlife Do Not Dredge Eaton Canyon Reservoir Runoff from Trails into Eaton Wash No Lighting

Safety/Security Emergency Phones Safe Street Crossings Security/Patrol Adequate Lighting Keep Trail Users out of Channel

Education Historic/Environmental Education Connection to Nature Center Access for Schools/Connect to Schools

Recreation/Open Space Widen Right-of-Way Water Access for Kayaks Trail Continuity Tie into Adjacent Parks Create Trail Loops Pocket Parks as Destinations Dog Walking Commercial Hub Linkages Tie into Edison Corridor

Restoration/Wildlife No Concrete in Channel Vegetation Native Plants Natural Aesthetic Science-based Restoration Wildlife Movement/Corridor Sustainable Design Treatment of Water Runoff/ Legal

TMDLs Bioswales Dog-free Areas

Community Asks Questions & Provides Input

Southern California Edison corridor be adoptedas open space. Sections of the proposed trailand perspective images were included toillustrate solutions for issues such as safe roadcrossing and Stormwater Best ManagementPractices. The Plan was well received.

Comments following the presentation of theDraft Concept Plan included more concern overmaintenance, safety, implementation phasingand funding. All comments were recordedand posted on the Arroyos and FoothillsConservancy website.

Attendance at the workshops and subsequentcorrespondence with the Planning Groupcon rmed community interest in theEaton Wash Corridor. Attendance at eachof the Altadena meetings was fairly high,demonstrating adequate awareness of

the project. Outreach in the cities at thesouthern end of the Corridor, where workshopattendance was low, needed to be stronger. Theoverall response to the project was positive andthe meetings provided a base to strengthencommunity support and involvement.

Community Responses from Workshops 1 & 2


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4.1 Concept Plan4.2 Trail Alignment4.3 Design Elements

4. DesignDevelopment


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4.1 CONCEPT PLAN

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Figure 4.1-1, Concept Plan

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Secondary Trail

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Concept Plan The vision for the Eaton Wash Corridor isan ecologically planned, multi-use trail thatruns from the San Gabriel Mountains to thecon uence of Eaton Wash and the Rio Hondo.When fully realized, this continuous Corridorwould provide people from the heavily urbanizedareas of Los Angeles County with an accessibleand safe route to the foothills. And because theCorridor would connect with the Rio Hondoand the San Gabriel River Trail, via the WhittierNarrows Recreation Area, it would also providepeople with a direct route to the ocean, as well.

The Corridor Plan, seen in Figure 4.1-1, begins just south of the City of Pasadenas jurisdictionalboundary and utilizes the existing maintenanceroads along Eaton Wash running south to the

con uence with the Rio Hondo. A hydrologicstudy and feasibility analysis would need to be

done on the channel itself in order to completethe vision for the Eaton Wash Corridor and makea continuous, ecological trail a reality.

Design decisions for the Eaton Wash Corridor arelargely based on input gathered at communityworkshops and discussions with City and Countyrepresentatives. Design elements such asdesignated bike and pedestrian/equestriantrails, urban trails and proposed parks satisfy thestrong community need for more recreationand open spaces. Bioswales, low- ow diversionstreams and native plantings promote restorationof the project area and facilitate environmentaleducation. Multiple points of access, bridgesand designed trail crossings provide universalaccess, safety and security to all trail users. Theresult is a Corridor Plan that prioritizes recreation,

open space and the restoration of native plantsand wildlife.

4.1 CONCEPT PLAN

Eaton Wash Corridor


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Pedestrian Trail

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Access

Bioswale

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Wash Awareness

Actuated Embedded Pavement Lights

Crosswalk

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MATCHLINE A

San Pasqual St.

PASADENA UNICORPORATEDLOS ANGELES COUNTY

E. California St.

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Pedestrian Trail

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Trail Under Road

Urban Trail

Access

Bioswale

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4.2 TRAIL ALIGNMENT

Pedestrian Trail

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Urban Trail

Schools

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l v d .

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ROSEMEAD TEMPLE CITYSANGABRIEL

San GabrielAcademy

MadisonElementary

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JeffersonMiddleSchool

MATCHLINE F

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Urban Trail

Schools

Signi cant Commerical Space

Access

Bioswale

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EL MONTE

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EL MONTE

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Design Elements The design elements proposed for the EatonWash Corridor are consistent with the initial2008 Emerald Horseshoe Concept Planand frominformation gathered at the Eaton Wash Corridorcommunity workshops. Design Elements help

accomplish project objectives. These designelements appear throughout the Eaton WashCorridor project area to bring practicality,character and cohesion to the trail system.

RECREATION, OPEN SPACE &COMMUNITY

Objective: Create a connected multi-use trailAlong Eaton Wash

Trail TypesCommuter Bikeway The proposed Commuter Bikeway would utilizethe existing Los Angeles County Department ofPublic Works maintenance road that runs alongthe west side of Eaton Wash. The CommuterBikeway would be a two-way path made ofpermeable pavement. Due to the dramaticchange in maintenance road width (see Figure2.1-2, Trail Width Assessment), the look and feel

of the bikeway will change throughout theproject area. Figures 4.3-1 and 4.3-2 demonstratehow the bikeway would change depending onthe existing road width.

In the narrowest areas, where the existing road isthe minimum 12-feet wide, the bike path would

ll the existing right-of-way. This width wouldstill accommodate County maintenance vehicleswhile providing adequate width for bicycle users.In the widest areas, where the existing roadis 28-feet wide, the trail would serve cyclists,County maintenance vehicles and would includea bioswale and native plantings. The bikewaywould be 12-feet wide. A 3-foot wide shoulderon either side of the bike path would provideadditional space for pedestrians and equestrians.Depending on the width of the existing right-of-way a bio-swale and native plantings wouldline the west side of the trail providing a buffer

between the trail and adjacent neighbors. Theseelements would provide habitat for wildlifespecies and help to clean stormwater runoff.

All trail widths will comply with Flood ControlDistrict Maintenance Speci cations.

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS

Figure 4.3-1, Commuter Bikeway in Narrow Areas

12Bike Trail

EatonWash


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3 12Bike TrailBioswale with

Native PlantingEatonWash

3ShoulderShoulder

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Figure 4.3-2, Commuter Bikeway in Wide Areas

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS


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Pedestrian / Equestrian Trail The proposed Pedestrian / Equestrian Trail wouldutilize the existing County maintenance roadthat runs on the east side of Eaton Wash. Similarto the west side of Eaton Wash, existing roadwidth varies greatly throughout the project

area. Figures 4.3-3 and 4.3-4 demonstrate howthe trail would change to accommodate theseconditions.

At its narrowest point, the existing maintenanceroad on this side of the Wash is 7-feet wide. Inthis situation the trail would be a simple 7-foot wide path open to all pedestrians andequestrians. When the existing maintenanceroad provides more space, the trail would bewider. In these conditions, the trail would slopetoward a bioswale and native plantings. Theseelements would help to lter pollutants fromrunoff and horse waste.

Figure 4.3-3, Pedestrian / Equestrian Trail

Figure 4.3-4, Eaton Wash Corridor Trails

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS


Native Plantings

7Pedestrian/Equestrian

Trail

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15 14Pedestrian/Equestrian

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Figure 4.3-5, Pedestrian & Equestrian Trail

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS


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Urban TrailsEaton Wash navigates a considerable length ofurban Los Angeles. The Wash cuts through fourcities and portions of unincorporated County,and runs behind single-family residences andalong major roads. The Wash, ever present in the

urban landscape, still remains largely unseen. Itis a long stretch of concrete gated and closed offfrom the public. If the Eaton Wash Corridor is tobe truly successful, secondary paths would needto be created to weave this trail system into theurban fabric.

Secondary paths, or urban trails, would connectthe contiguous Eaton Wash Corridor with theparks, commercial and retail space that layadjacent, creating trail loops to and from theCorridor. Urban trails would utilize existing citysidewalks imprinted with the sculpture tree iconseen throughout the Eaton Wash and EmeraldHorseshoe project areas. Wherever possibleappropriate street trees would be planted to

provide shade, improve the look and feel of theurban trails and tie them to the adjacent Corridor.By creating these loops that connect the Washto the larger urban environment, the Eaton WashCorridor becomes more accessible and a morepractical means of transportation and recreation

for the average person, not just those alreadyinterested in trails.

Urban Trail

Figure 4.3-6, Urban Trail

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS

Sculpture tree stamped into concrete


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Proposed Urban Trail Locations

Huntington Drive at Eaton Wash Trail passes through a proposed pocket park and aroundEaton Spreading BasinCreates an approximately 1-mile trail loop

Along Lemon Avenue Connecting Emperor Elementary School and Eaton Wash

North Burton Avenue between Longden Avenue and Garibaldi AvenueCreating a -mile trail loop along the S.C.E. TransmissionCorridor

E. Las Tunas Drive between Eaton Wash and Rosemead BoulevardConnecting to retail space

E. Broadway between Eaton Wash and Rosemead BoulevardConnecting to retail space

Pentland Street and Encinita AvenueConnecting La Rosa Elementary School and Eaton Wash

Lower Azusa Road Connecting Eaton Wash and Encinita Elementary School

Marshall Street and South Baldwin Avenue Connecting Eaton Wash and Baldwin Mini Park

Flair Drive and Rosemead BoulevardAlternative to crossing over 10 FreewayConnecting Eaton Wash and Lashbrook Park - Part of theEmerald Necklace

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS


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*Emperor

ElementarySchool

Figure 4.3-7, Proposed Park at Lemon Avenue and Ardendale Avenue

Figure 4.3-8, Existing Condition

ParksLos Angeles region has become infamous for its lackof open space. Two out of three children living in

Los Angles County live beyond walking distance to apark. Yet studies have shown that neighborhood parksstimulate local economies and help reduce crime (Trustfor Public Land 2010). As seen in the Land Use map(Analysis chapter, Figure 2.1-3, Land Use) there is a clearlack of existing public park and open space along EatonWash. Various parcels within the S.C.E. TransmissionCorridor provide opportunities to help ll this needalong the Wash and have been proposed as park space. These parcels were selected based on their adjacency toEaton Wash, proximity to local schools and their currentuse.

Proposed parks along Eaton Wash would incorporatea variety of design elements. Depending on parksize and location, these open spaces would providea suitable setting for environmental education andoutdoor classrooms. Interpretive signage wouldhighlight history, habitat restoration efforts and nativeplant species. Stormwater Best Management Practices

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS

Dog Station, Recycle & Trash Bins

Sculpture Trees


Figure 4.3-9, Key Map

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would include bioswales and low- ow diversionchannels where feasible. User amenities suchas trash and recycling bins, drinking fountains,picnic tables and benches and dog stations,would also be available in these spaces. Theseproposed parks would help ll the gap in LosAngeles Countys park system as well as makethe Eaton Wash Corridor more desirable for localcommunities. These proposed parks wouldincrease the amount of recreational space andimprove livability in Los Angeles County.

Pedestrian Overpass across 10 FreewayIn order to create a continuous Eaton WashCorridor every gap in the trail must be bridged. The largest gap in this project is the 10 freeway.Any usable right-of-way disapears immediatelynorth of the 10 freeway leaving trail usersstranded on Loftus Drive in El Monte. Continuingthe Corridor across and south of the 10 freewayis essential in linking trail users to the Rio Hondoand San Gabriel River Trail. This trail network isone of the largest in the region, connecting usersto both the foothills and the ocean. A pedestrianoverpass, much like the one constructed acrossthe 210 freeway for the Sierra Madre Villa MetroGold Line station, will allow trail users to safelycross the 10 freeway.

Trail users would enter the overpass from theexisting maintenance road south of Loftus Drivebut north of the 10 freeway and travel throughthe enclosed bridge. They would exit on thesouth side of the 10 freeway and Flair Drive ontothe existing maintenance road.

Proposed Park Locations

Huntington Drive at Eaton WashVacant parcel within the S.C.E.

Transmission CorridorProvides opportunity to connect witha proposed urban trail around EatonSpreading Basin

Durate Road at Eaton WashParcel within the S.C.E. TransmissionCorridorOpportunity to create neighborhoodpark

Lemon Avenue at Ardendale AvenueEducational opportunities withadjacent Emperor Elementary School

Longden Avenue at Eaton WashUnder-utilized parcel

Valley Boulevard at Eaton WashVacant parcel in heavily urbanizedarea

Opportunity to create needed openspace

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS

Figure 4.3-10, Key Map

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Objective: Create pedestrian, bicycle andequestrian access to Eaton Wash

AccessProviding access to Eaton Wash is the rst stepin creating a continuous trail for pedestrians,equestrians and cyclists. Access points would belocated at every street that intersects the Wash.

Frequent access points make entering and exitingthe trail system easy and prevent trail users fromfeeling trapped. Most access points proposedin this Plan are existing County maintenancevehicle access points. Chain-link fencing andramps down to the maintenance roads alreadyexist. Repurposing these access points for trailuse would require limited construction work andtherefore reduced costs.

Amenities at these access points would varydepending on the size of the existing entry gate.Most access points would be framed by tworecycled steel sculpture trees. These trees willmeet Flood Control District maintenance vehicleheight clearances. The trees would form a canopyover the entrance of the trail, denoting the accessand helping visitors to notice the beauty of thenatural, yet urban environment. Access pointswould also include a locator map, solar lighting,

an emergency call box, collapsible bollards, trashand recycling receptacles and dog stations.

Access Times & Signage The Eaton Wash Corridor would have limitedhours. Signage listing trail hours would be postedat all access points.

allox

Yo u

Are

H ere

PleaseRecycle

PleaseD ontLitt er

RecycledBags

Figure 4.3-11, Access

Figure 4.3-11, Plan View of Pedestrian Trail Access

4.3 DESIGN ELEMENTS

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Bridges The Lower Arroyo Seco is an excellant case studydemonstrating how bridges can be used toconnect the two sides of a channelized bodyof water. Similarly, bridges would connect theEast and West trails throughout the Eaton WashCorridor. These bridges, by allowing trail usersto move freely along both sides of the Wash,would help promote a feeling of safety for users.Bridges were a common request of communitymembers at both the design and design reviewworkshops. Including this feature in the CorridorPlan speaks directly to the wants and needs ofthe community.

Objective: Enhance public safety along

Eaton Wash

Collapsible Bollards or GatesCollapsible Bollards or gates would be placedat each Eaton Wash access point to ensure trailsafety. These bollards would be used as traffi ccontrol barriers, only allowing County andemergency vehicles on Eaton Wash trails whennecessary.

Safe CrossingsVarious levels and types of safe crossing areproposed for the streets that intersect the EatonWash Corridor. The goal of each is to get thetrail user across the street safely and with aslittle disruption to car traffi c as possible. Eachproposed crossing alerts drivers to the presenceof trail users with an increasing level of intensity. The type of crossing would be based on thetraffi c observed. Striped crosswalks have thelowest level of intensity and are proposed forquiet neighborhood streets while the High-intensity Activated Crosswalk, or HAWK, systemis proposed for busy arterial thoroughfares.

Actuated Embedded Pavement LightsActuated embedded pavement lights that are

parallel to a crosswalk have been shown to havepositive impacts on pedestrian safety (VirginiaDepartment of Transportation 2010). Theselight-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are also knownas an illuminated crosswalk. This form of traffi ccontrol device is meant to alert approachingmotorists to the presence of pedestrians thatare in or about to enter into a marked crosswalk.It consists of a series of lighting units encasedin durable housings and embedded in thepavement parallel with the marked crosswalk. The lights are activated by a pedestrian bypushbutton and are aimed to ash toward theapproaching traffi c. They serve essentially thesame function as traditional overhead ashingbeacons, with the major difference beingthe location of the lights and the pedestrianactivation feature. The illuminated crosswalkshave also been found to be more effective atalerting motorists to pedestrian presence in thecrosswalk than the standard overhead yellow

ashing beacon (Light Guard Systems 2010).

The system is proposed for areas where trailusers may need to cross several of traffi c, suchas at California Street, Duarte Road and LongdenAvenue. It should be accompanied by signageboth for motorists and pedestrians such as Yieldto Pedestrians and Watch for CarsCross OnlyWhen It Is Safe To Do So. The system should beCollapsible Bollards

Bridge

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judiciously installed per each Citys guidelinesand routinely maintained to give trail users thesafest experience possible.

CrosswalkStriped crosswalks are proposed for almost everyaccess point along the Eaton Wash Corridor. They are a part of the High-intensity ActivatedCrosswalk, or HAWK, system proposed for

trail crossings at busy arterial streets and area part of the Actuated Embedded PavementLight crossings at moderately busy streetsintersecting the Corridor. Crosswalks without anyaccompanying alert system are also proposed forquieter neighborhood streets. Crosswalks shallconform to City or County guidelines and be big,bright, and bold allowing the highest possiblelevel visibility to cars.

High-intensity Activated Crosswalk The High-intensity Activated Crosswalk, or HAWK,was developed by the City of Tucson, Arizona inthe 1990s. The system allows for safe pedestriancrossing only when needed without restricting orinterrupting normal traffi c ow when pedestriansare not present. Much like a typical traffi c signal,a trail user presses a button which causes theabove lights to begin ashing yellow. A steady

yellow light, followed by a steady red light allowthe pedestrian to cross. Accompanying signageand pavement striping creates a striking systemthat is more visible to traffi c than a simplecrosswalk.

The HAWK system is proposed for areas wheretrail users may need to cross several lanesof traffi c, such as at Lower Azusa Road and Temple City Boulevard. Studies done by the U.S.Department of Transportation, Federal HighwayAdministration and the Texas TransportationInstitute at Texas A&M University, found adecrease in the amount of pedestrian accidentsafter the HAWK system was installed. The HAWKsystem would give trail users a safer way oftraversing these larger streets.

Railroad Crossing The Eaton Wash Corridor intersects with railroadtracks only once throughout its 5 miles justeast of Temple City Boulevard. Yet this singlecrossing should be treated carefully in order togive trail users the highest level of safety possible. Trail crossings with railroad tracks are especiallyhazardous to users relying on wheeled formsof mobility because the size of the angewaygap on either side of the track is approximatelytwo inches, exceeding the recommended -inch width for openings in a trail. The followingdesign strategies should be used at this crossing:

Crosswalk High-intensity Activated Crosswalk

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Approaches to the track and the areabetween the tracks should be raised to thelevel of the top of the rail because rail ties thatare not ush with the travel surface create atripping hazard, in addition to the existing gaphazard. A surface material that will not buckle,expand, or contract signi cantly (e.g., texturedrubber railroad crossing pads) should be used;Approaches to the track should be rampedwith minimal grades and should be at for adistance of 5 feet on either side of the tracks,

free of obstacles, and have a rm and stablesurface; The trail surface should be hardened toreduce the debris that scatters over the tracksas users pass;Sight lines and signage should ensure that allusers, and particularly those with disabilitiesaffecting hearing, vision, or mobilityimpairments, have adequate warning aboutthe intersection;Signals and/or gates should considered towarn trail users of the rail crossing (FederalHighway Administration 2010).

Emergency Call Boxes To promote and ensure safety, solar-poweredcall boxes would be placed at each Eaton WashCorridor access point. These call boxes are stand-alone and battery-powered. Once the system isactivated by a caller, location information such

as call box location, number, time and dateof call are all recorded by a central computer. This ensures the correct emergency responsepersonnel would be dispatched to the exactlocation.

Solar-powered emergency call boxes are animportant safety measure to incorporate alongEaton Wash as they can provide emergencyservice when cellular phones may not havereception. The signal from a call box is stronger

than that of a standardpersonal cell phone andsolar-powered call boxes canprovide up to a 40-day chargewith only one day of sunlight(Simons and Roush 2002).

CallBox

Emergency Call Box

Railroad Crossing

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LightingStudies have shown that improved street lightingcan, on average, decrease crime by 20 percent(Farrington and Welsh 2002). Safety along EatonWash Corridor is of the utmost importance,therefore solar lighting would be placed atall access points. Downlights, lights installedwithin the branches ofthe sculptural trees toilluminate the groundsurface, would furtherpromote safety andcomfort at access points.Lighting along Eaton Washtrails is unnecessary as trailaccess hours are limitedfrom sunrise to sunset.

Light has also beenrestricted to accesspoints to prevent lightpollution. Light pollutionalters natural lightregimes in terrestrial andaquatic ecosystems andmay cause the deathof migratory birds andaquatic species (FloridaHabitat 2008). Excludinglight xtures along the trailprevents the effects of light pollution on plantsand wildlife.

Safety/Security SignageEaton Wash currently acts as a ood controlchannel owned and operated by the Los AngelesCounty Department of Public Works. Excesswater, from rainfall or urban runoff, is directed to

the channel in an effort to keep area residentssafe. Opening up the maintenance roads thatrun along this channel for public use wouldonly be possible if trail users were aware of theassociated risks. Safety signage would be postedthroughout the Corridor. This signage wouldinclude:

Keep Out of ChannelNo Swimming

Trail Closed during Storm EventsShare the Trail (Trail Right-of-Ways)

These signs would remind trail users that it is onlythe trails along Eaton Wash that are for use by thepublic, not the concrete channel.

Signature FencingRecycled steel signature fencing would featuresculpted deer weed (Lotus scoparius), whichis a native riparian plant in the Eaton Washproject area. This fencing would safely separatetrail users from the Wash. The fencing wouldalso be featured along all bridges, pedestrianand vehicular, that cross over the Wash. Muchlike the sculpture trees at each access point,the signature fencing would highlight naturalfeatures of the Eaton Wash project area

helping to educate the public about the nativevegetation that once surrounded parts of the siteand which would be restored as part of the EatonWash Corridor Plan. This fencing would also helpto keep people on the trail, limiting disturbanceof the surrounding vegetation.

Lighting

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Objective: Design spaces that promote thehealth and well-being of the public

BenchesBenches would be available at all access pointsand along the pedestrian/equestrian trail at

regular intervals, wherever adequate spaceallows. Benches would also be included atpocket parks and along trail loops throughoutthe Eaton Wash Corridor project area. Seatingwould be designed to t in with the aesthetic ofthe trail. Proposed construction materials includeconcrete, local stone or recycled steel.

Bicycle RacksBicycle racks would be offered at all parks,commercial and retail spaces adjacent to Eaton

Wash Corridor. It is a key component of theEaton Wash Corridor concept that users be ableto utilize the bikeway for everyday activities suchas running errands or taking children to the park.Bicycle racks are a necessary design element toachieve this goal.

Drinking FountainsDrinking fountains, including a lower fountain fordogs, would be installed along the pedestrian/ equestrian trail wherever adequate space allows. These fountains would include a ground drain forwater runoff.

Mile MarkersMile markers would be stamped into the thebikeway on the west side of Eaton Wash. On thedecomposed granite pedestrian/equestrian trail,mile markers would be stamped into bouldersalong the trail. Beginning at the southernportion of the trail, these mile markers would beplaced every 1/8 mile to help trail users knowexactly where they are on the trail. This signagetechnique would help preserve viewsheds alongthe trails.

Bicycle Rack

Drinking Fountain

Mile Marker

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Locator MapsLocator maps would be placed at all accesspoints along the Eaton Wash Corridor. Locatormaps would be embedded in local boulders anddepict the Eaton Wash Corridor as it connectswith the larger Emerald Horseshoe trail system.Visitors would be able to identify their currentlocation with the You are here symbol as well asother points, such as parks, along the trail theymay wish to visit. These locator maps wouldmake visitors aware they are on a trail that is partof a larger, region-wide recreation system.

Picnic TablesPicnic tables would be included at proposedparks throughout the Eaton Wash Corridorproject area. These tables would match theaesthetic of the trail with construction materialsincluding concrete, local stone or steel.

YouAre

Here

Locator Map

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Objective: Encourage municipal and publicinvolvement in the development of a CorridorPlan

Eaton Wash Accord To encourage long-term municipal and

public involvement in the development andimplementation of the Eaton Wash Corridor,the Planning Group recommends the creationof an Eaton Wash Accord. The nearby EmeraldNecklace project, managed by the non-pro tAmigos de los Rios, successfully utilizes theconcept of an Accord in garnering municipal andpublic responsibility, support and accountabilityfor their trail system. An Eaton Wash Accordwould give the County and cities within theproject area the opportunity to sign-on to work

cooperatively in securing funding, sharingresponsibilities for any programming in theCorridor and providing security. Businesseslying within the project area may also sign-on toadopt portions of the Corridor for maintenance,planting or to fund programming or publicart. For more detailed information about anEaton Wash Accord, please see the chapter onImplementation and Phasing.

Public Art The Eaton Wash Corridor runs through variouscities, each with its own cultural identity andcharacter. It is through this diversity thatopportunities arise to create artwork speci c tothe residents that live along the trail. The EatonWash Corridor would include public art thatmay include murals or sculptures at appropriatelocations, such as the intersection of N. MuscatelAvenue and Elm Avenue, where Eaton Washdiagonally passing under the intersection. Theiconic steel sculpture trees also provide a canvasfor local artists to represent their communities

and claim the Eaton Wash Corridor as their own.

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From 2000 to 2002, the Community of AngelsSculptural Project installed painted berglassangel sculptures in highly visible locationsaround the City of Los Angeles. The angelswere later auctioned off to raise money forvarious charitable organizations. This projectwas inspired by public art movements inother cities, such as the Cows on Paradeinstallations in Chicago, and offers a wonderfulexample of how public art can work in a city aslarge and diverse as Los Angeles (Public Art in

L.A. 2010). S o u r c e :

F l i c k r

, 2 0 1 0

This sculpture by Richard Botto is made of ironand river rock and sits in the City of Oakland.Botto is inspired by natural artist AndyGoldsworthy who takes completely naturaland eeting materials like ice, leaves and sticks

and creates pieces that give-in hour by hourand day by day to nature and its processes,collapsing back into the earth. Botto mainlyuses river rock in his installations. He workswith one of the oldest mediums on earth,paying tribute to the beauty of the naturalworld. His artwork illustrates that public artcan t in nicely not only in urban, but naturalenvironments as well.

S o u r c e :

F l i c k r

, 2 0 1 0

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WATER, PLANTS & WILDLIFE

Objective: Improve hydrologic functionwhile providing ood protection forresidents

Channel Alteration

Los Angeles Countys miles of rivers and streamswere con ned to concrete channels decadesago in response to catastrophic ooding. Inexchange for ood protection, the County losthabitat for wildlife and places for people tointeract with water. Also, the soils lost the abilityto soak up rain, thus reducing the undergroundsources of drinking water. Improving thepermeability of the urban landscape canproduce multiple bene ts for the communitiesof the Eaton Wash Corridor.

The following discussion on altering channelsdescribes one mechanism that has beensuggested for restoring a portion of our urbancreeks to natural functions. This discussion is notspeci c to Eaton Wash, as any decisions aboutchannel modi cation would of necessity bepreceded by extensive hydrologic and hydraulicstudies and sign-off by Los Angeles CountyFlood Control District.

Soft-bottom OptionOne option that is employed in urban streamrestoration where concrete channels are in placeis called soft-bottoming. This option is explainedfurther in the section below. It will requirethorough hydrologic and hydraulic studies andfeasibility analysis so that scouring, downstream

sedimentation, structural damage of the channelwalls and ood danger do not occur. Thisalteration would require signi cant planning,engineering and construction to maintain

ood protection. Yet the bene t of this channelalteration would be the restoration of signi cantecological function, as well as ood protection,to surroundi

Documents

632_Eaton Wash Corridor Plan