Key LA River Projects

The LA River Master Plan, approved in 2022, includes over 200 potential project sites and an estimated budget of $19-24 billion over 25 years. Key projects include the SELA Cultural Center, a sprawling complex designed by Frank Gehry featuring performance spaces, gardens, and elevated parks above the river in South Gate.

Proposed SELA Cultural Center in South Gate

The Proposed SELA Cultural Center in South Gate

The Southeast LA (SELA) Cultural Center is a proposed $150 million arts and cultural hub designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. It is planned to be built at the confluence of the Los Angeles River and Rio Hondo in South Gate, California. Here are the key details about this ambitious project:

Project Overview

• The 85,000 square-foot complex will feature multiple buildings including a performance hall, music education spaces, recording studios, dance theater, galleries, workshops, cafe, plaza, gardens, and parking.
• It is envisioned as a community-oriented campus with an active "Working Art Street" or "Paseo Cívico" for festivals, events, and artistic activities.
• The project is led by the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy (RMC) and has secured $124 million in state funding so far, along with additional philanthropic support.

Community Impact

• Proponents argue it will provide Southeast LA residents, especially youth, with access to arts education, workshops, and cultural programming currently lacking in the area.

• It is part of the LA River Revitalization Plan aimed at transforming the river corridor and uplifting underserved communities along its path.

• However, some housing activists fear it could accelerate gentrification and displacement of low-income residents if adequate protections are not in place.

Addressing Gentrification Concerns

• Community outreach and input have been part of the planning process to identify needs like affordable housing and public transportation access.

• Local arts leaders view it as an opportunity to shape development by having "a seat at the table."

• However, scholars warn of the risk of "driving out its target audience" if gentrification is not properly addressed.

The SELA Cultural Center represents a major investment in arts, culture, and community development for Southeast LA. While promising opportunities, concerns about gentrification underscore the need for inclusive planning to ensure the project benefits existing residents.

Another notable proposals include the $20 million Glendale Narrows Riverwalk, funded by the city, state parks, and private philanthropy. 

Glendale Narrows Riverwalk

Glendale Narrows Riverwalk

The Glendale Narrows Riverwalk is a recreational trail and park area along the Los Angeles River in Glendale, California. Here are the key details about this urban river greenway:

Overview

• It is a 0.55 mile long linear park along the east bank of the LA River, stretching from Bette Davis Park to Flower Street.
• The riverwalk features a paved multi-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists, along with amenities like parks, picnic areas, river overlooks, public art installations, and an equestrian facility.
• It opened to the public in phases, with the first section completed in 2012 and additional phases adding more trail length and amenities in subsequent years.

Amenities

• Two small parks with lawns, trees, and landscaping.
• Two non-reservable picnic tables on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Interpretive displays and signage about the river's history and ecology.
• An equestrian facility with a corral for horses.
• Public artworks like sculptures and murals integrated into the design.

Connectivity and Future Plans

• The riverwalk provides pedestrian and bike access to the LA River recreational trail network.
• Glendale has plans for a Phase II extension to add more trail length northward.
• There are proposals to build a pedestrian/bike bridge over the river to connect the riverwalk to Griffith Park on the west side.

The Glendale Narrows Riverwalk has revitalized a stretch of the LA River in Glendale by providing public green space, recreation opportunities, and improved access to the waterway. It is part of ongoing efforts to transform the LA River corridor into an amenity-rich greenway connecting communities. 

Planned pedestrian bridge connecting Atwater Village and Griffith Park.

Pedestrian bridge connecting Atwater Village and Griffith Park