Los Angeles, CA, March 3, 2016 – Today the City of Los Angeles, Department of Recreation and Parks along with Councilmember David Ryu, Council District Four, and Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) announced plans for the Runyon Canyon Water System Improvement Project (RCWSIP). The newly announced project will replace approximately one mile of 6-inch pipe that runs through the park in order to improve the area’s fire protection system, reduce the risk of pipe breaks, and improve local water quality. As a result of this work, Runyon Canyon Park will be closed to the public for a four-month period, from approximately April 1 to July 31 2016, with the exception of the yoga field, which will remain open throughout the construction process.
“Public safety is the overarching reason to begin immediate work on this critical infrastructure project. This temporary closure, while inconvenient, is absolutely necessary in order to keep the surrounding neighborhoods safe by improving the park’s fire and flood protection systems,” said David Ryu, Los Angeles City Councilmember, 4th District.
Construction for the RCWSIP will include the excavation of a trench along the fire road trail, installation of the new pipeline, and backfilling of the trench. Following the new pipe installation, the trail will be restored and improved.
“In beautiful Runyon Canyon, it’s understandable that water infrastructure isn’t the main focus of visitors. But maintaining a functioning water infrastructure system is as important as the trees, hiking paths and greenery. So while this park closure is a temporary inconvenience for some, its benefits will not only protect the park we love from fire and floods, it will improve water quality for the surrounding community as well.” said Marty Adams, LADWP Senior Assistant General Manager of Water System.
Beginning in April 2016 and throughout the duration of the park closure, the community can visit any of the City’s parks with similar outdoor recreation opportunities, listed below:
- Franklin Canyon Park, 2600 Franklin Canyon Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90210
- Fryman Canyon Park, 8401 Mulholland Drive, Studio City, CA 91604
- Hollywood Reservoir, 6399 Weidlake Drive, Hollywood, CA 90068
- Wilacre Park, 12601 Mulholland Drive, Studio City, CA 91604
“The Runyon Canyon Water System Improvement Project is a vital step to improve the water system infrastructure, the fire protection system, and to reduce the risk of pipe breaks,” said Michael A. Shull, General Manager, Recreation and Parks. “These park improvements will enhance water reliability and fire protection to ensure the preservation of Runyon Canyon Park for years to come.”
For more information, visit www.ladwp.com/runyoncanyon.
