Pacoima Urban Green Vision Plan by LA-Más

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Acknowledgments Pacoima Beautiful: Max Podemski, Planning Director Veronica Padilla-Campos, Executive Director Yvette Lopez-Ledesma, Deputy Director Maria Guzman, Promotora LA Mas: Elizabeth Timme, Co-Executive Director Helen Leung, Co-Executive Director Ross Hansen, Project Manager Stacey Rigley, Graphic Designer Hydrology TEAM: Mark Hanna, Senior Water Resources Engineer, Geosyntec Miguel Luna, Principal, DakeLuna Glen Dake, Principal, DakeLuna Mike Antos, Program Director, Council for Watershed Health Creative Open Space Los Angeles (COSLA): Philip Burns, Advance Planning Intern, Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks Melinda Gejer, City Planning Associate, Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks USC Program for Environmental and Regional Equity (PERE): Madeline Wander, Data Analyst II

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS BACKGROUND

Vision Plan

Introduction..........................................6 Project Partners Vision StatemenT.......................................10 Statement Goals

Green Streets..............................................30 Engineering Considerations Guidelines Potential Green Street Locations

Project Area..............................................14 The Built Environment Hydrology Study Funding Sources.......................................20 Water Bonds Measure R and Measure R2 Active Transportation Grant Cap-And-Trade Community Outreach...............................24 Focus Groups Surveys Community Events Highlights

Green Intersections...................................48 Guidelines Potential Green Intersection Locations Pocket Parks...............................................56 Guidelines Potential Pocket Park Locations Plazas.......................................................66 Guidelines Potential Plaza Locations Green Alley..................................................72 Guidelines Potential Green Alley Locations Parklets..................................................82 Guidelines Potential Parklet Locations

Next Steps...............................................88 Resources .............................................90 Appendices ...............................................92

BACKGROUND

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

INTRODUCTION The Pacoima Urban Greening Plan was funded through an Urban Greening Grant from the California Strategic Growth Council awarded to Pacoima Beautiful in 2011. This plan focuses on the central portion of the neighborhood of Pacoima in the City of Los Angeles, one of the most park poor and environmentally impacted areas in California. The goal of this grant is to address the most pressing issues of concern in this community; mobility, open space, the environment, and health. This document was produced through a collaborative process linking robust community outreach with professionals in urban planning, landscape architecture and environmental science.

Fig. 1 Current Street Conditions on Van Nuys Blvd.

BACKGROUND

At the time of publication, the state and region have embarked on a new development trajectory based around sustainable transportation, conservation, and environmental sustainability. These efforts have been bolstered by new funding commitments from programs such as Cap and Trade, Measure R, and the Proposition 1 Water Bond passed in November of 2014. The purpose of this document is to prepare Pacoima to take advantage of these opportunities and become a model for the sustainable and equitable transformation of Los Angeles. The Pacoima Urban Greening Plan is structured to encourage elected officials, government agencies, and non-profits to take advantage of these funding opportunities by providing a list of projects with supporting documentation and community support. In this way, this document is geared toward producing achievable short-term actions that will improve both the quality of life and environment in the Northeast San Fernando Valley.

PROJECT Partners This document was achieved through the robust collaboration of community stakeholders, elected officials and professionals engaged in planning, design and the environment. Below is a description of the different organizations and agencies involved in producing the content of this document.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Pacoima Beautiful

Pacoima Beautiful is a member-based environmental health and justice non-profit serving the Northeast San Fernando Valley. The mission of Pacoima Beautiful is to empower the community through programs that provide environmental education, advocacy and local leadership in order to foster a healthy and safe environment. The organization places high value on improving residents’ awareness, education and leadership skills so that they can be more effective advocates for improving the community. Pacoima Beautiful’s work is achieved through collaboration with local residents, community-based organizations, government agencies, and city officials, to shape future development in a sustainable and equitable way. Pacoima Beautiful served as the lead agency on the Urban Greening Grant. LA-MAS

LA-Más is a non-profit design-based organization collaborating with Pacoima Beautiful to plan and produce the Pacoima Urban Greening Vision Plan. LA-Más’ mission is to look critically at systemic problems in the Los Angeles area and provide solutions based on research and community engagement. By using alternative models of social inclusion and collaboration, they hope to shape the future of equitable city growth. Collaborating with architects, urban planners, policy makers, and community members, LA-Más aims to develop ideas that benefit local ecology, health, and community building for the people of Pacoima. City of Los Angeles Councilmember Felipe Fuentes

Councilmember Felipe Fuentes represents the 7th District on the Los Angeles City Council. He was elected in July of 2013 after serving in the California State Assembly. Councilmember Fuentes is chair of the City’s Energy and Environment committee and is an advocate for environmental sustainability and complete streets. CA State AssemblY member Raul Bocanegra

Raul Bocanegra represented the 39th District in the California State Assembly (2012 to 2014) which encompasses much of the Northeast San Fernando Valley. He is an advocate for water conservation and open space within the district. Geosyntec

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. is a specialized consulting and engineering firm that works with public and private sector clients to address new projects and complex problems

BACKGROUND

concerning the environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure. Established in 1983 as an employee-owned corporation, Geosyntec maintains over 120 employees in seven offices in Southern California. Creative Open Space Los Angeles

Creative Open Space Los Angeles (COSLA) is spearheaded by the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, and is part of a collaborative endeavor with a number of non-profit and community organizations to help increase the health and livability of communities across the City. The goal of COSLA is to create unique, neighborhood specific, open space vision plans for five neighborhoods within the City of Los Angeles, including Pacoima. COSLA was funded by Community Health Councils’ United for Health, a Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Community Transformation Grant - Small Communities Program. Technical Advisory Group A Technical Advisory Group composed of representatives from city agencies, offices of elected officials, as well as experts on mobility, open space and water was assembled to guide the plan. This group met twice during the creation of the Pacoima Urban Greening Plan. The first meeting was held on June 11, 2014 and gave initial input to guide the creation of the document and hydrology study. The second meeting took place on July 21, 2015 . At this meeting the TAG reviewed and gave input on an initial draft of the Urban Greening Plan. TAG Participant Organizations: • Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority • The Nature Conservancy • Los Angeles Walks • LA-Más • Office of City of Los Angeles Councilmember Felipe Fuentes, Council District 7 • Office of State Senator Robert Hertzberg • Los Angeles Department of Water and Power • California State University Northridge • Urban Alianza • Creative Open Space Los Angeles • City of Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

VISION STATEMENT Pacoima is emblematic of the changes that have occurred in many Southern California communities over the last 50 years. What was once a suburban bedroom community meant to supply workers for nearby factories has transitioned into a dense and vibrant enclave of newly arrived immigrants and longtime residents. While the demographics of this community have changed, the physical makeup of the neighborhood has stayed the same. This has resulted in conditions detrimental to the health and quality of life for residents.

Top/Right: Fig. 02-05 Existing Neighborhood Conditions

BACKGROUND

A major challenge in Pacoima is the lack of adequate public infrastructure and resources for its residents. Very little accommodations have been made for the significant percentage of the population who do not own a car. Haphazard land use has resulted in factories and noxious public facilities abutting schools and residences. The neighborhood was developed primarily with single-family homes; however, over the years they have been adapted to house many more people than one nuclear family. Today, 30% of residents live in rented rooms or converted garages and Pacoima has some of the most overcrowded housing in the San Fernando Valley1. Despite the population growth, very few new parks have been created to accommodate this added density, leaving Pacoima as one of the most park poor neighborhoods in the entire region. This plan outlines key infrastructure and open space investments to address the myriad of issues facing Pacoima. The main objectives of this plan are improved mobility and increased opportunities for open space. However, this document also addresses a range of ancillary issues including stormwater remediation and infiltration, blight removal, climate change and economic development. These projects emanate from community stakeholders who described the issues they currently face and the solutions they feel could best address them. They were then elaborated upon by skilled professionals and linked to broader policies and programs at the city, state, and federal level. At the time of this writing, Los Angeles is undergoing one of the most dramatic transformations in its history. Five transit lines are being constructed, thousands of units of multi-family housing are being 1. CityLAB, 10K Pacoima: Backyard Homes, UCLA; February 2009.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

built and streets are being reimagined as places for pedestrians and cyclists as well as drivers. At the same time California and the region are facing ecological challenges such as a severe drought and wildfires. These conditions will be exacerbated by climate change which will create more frequent extreme heat days. Due to its location and population, Pacoima is particularly vulnerable to these threats2. In the past, Pacoima has often been victimized by the City’s planning process, becoming the home of facilities not wanted in other neighborhoods. The Pacoima Urban Greening Plan will help Pacoima face the challenges and opportunities of the future head-on through a vision that reflects its aspirations and in turn is emblematic of a more sustainable and equitable Los Angeles.

Goals Increase Mobility by Creating a Network of Adaptable Greenways Many Pacoima residents rely on walking and biking to do their daily activities. Improvements to Pacoima’s public infrastructure and mobility options help support the functions of daily life and connect neighborhoods to local open spaces. These connections will promote healthy and active lifestyle choices while increasing access and mobility options for all people.

Fig. 06 Mural of Ritchie Valens

Improve the Ecological Health of Pacoima Pacoima’s location at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains makes it critical to the ecology of Southern California. The Northeast San Fernando Valley has some of the most permeable soils in the region making it important for groundwater infiltration. The areas location adjacent to the Angeles National Forest also makes it an important wildlife corridor. Because of this, creating projects that both improve water quality and provide open space habitat will not just create a better environment within Pacoima but the entire Los Angeles region. Provide Access to and Repurpose Open Spaces Pacoima is one of the most park poor areas in all of Southern California. A legacy of environmental injustice and disinvestment has blighted the neighborhood with many vacant lots and land uses that are incompatible with adjacent residences. These parcels are opportunities to provide additional open space that will beautify the neighborhood and improve the environment. In addition to the vacant parcels, many of the open spaces in and around the Pacoima area are not being used to their full potential in terms of meeting the needs of residents. This vision plan seeks to reimagine public spaces in Pacoima in a way that maximizes their utilization and creates a healthier and more equitable community. Create A Sense of Place Pacoima has a rich historic and cultural legacy from the Tongva Tribe who once inhabited the area, to Ritchie Valens and Van Nuys Boulevard Mural Mile. The new infrastructure and open space built in the community should accommodate and express the vibrancy, history and unique identity of the community. These spaces will strengthen neighborhood bonds by providing places for residents, visitors, and stakeholders to come together. 2. Union of Concerned Scientists, Preparing for Climate Change Impacts in Los Angeles; December 2012.

BACKGROUND

Fig. 07 Pacoima Wash. Photo Credit: LA Times

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

PROJECT AREA The Pacoima Urban Greening Plan project area focuses on the central portion of Pacoima in the Northeast San Fernando Valley, 22 miles northeast of Downtown Los Angeles. The project area is entirely within the Los Angeles city limits and consists of five square miles bounded by the 118 Freeway to the west, the 210 Freeway to the north, Hansen Dam and Branford Street to the east, and the 5 Freeway to the south. This area is largely residential with industrial concentrations along San Fernando Road and Branford Street, and Whiteman Airport, which is owned by the County of Los Angeles, in the center.

Fig. 08 Project Area Map. The project area is the central portion of Pacoima in the City of Los Angeles in the northeast San Fernando Valley, 20 miles north of downtown Los Angeles.

210

FO OT HI LL .

VD BL

GL EN

210

OA B KS .

D LV

. RD

d lv

n Va

sb uy

x Pa

n to

N SA

118

n or

O NF

BACKGROUND

Despite its suburban appearance, Pacoima is a densely populated neighborhood with a severe lack of open space. The population of the project area is 67,000 residents giving it a population density of over 13,500 people per square mile. This is nearly twice the density of the City of Los Angeles as a whole. Over 20% of housing units in the project area have more than one occupant per room (Fig. 9), which is considered overcrowded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development3. It is estimated that nearly 30% of residents live in rented rooms or converted garages. These are often illegally constructed units built on lots of single-family homes. In spite of Pacoimaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high population density and overcrowding, there is a lack of public space and transportation infrastructure that does not meet residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs. Only 50 acres of park space exists in the project area giving it a ratio of 1,350 residents for each acre of park space. This translates to 16 times less park space per capita than the City as a whole, making it one of the most park poor neighborhoods in an already park poor city. Furthermore, nearly 8% of households have no access to a vehicle (Fig. 10) and 31.4% of the population is under the age of 184 (Fig. 11). The lack of vehicles combined with the high population of children means that many residents rely on walking, biking, and public transit.

.25

.50

1.0 miles

Pacoima is a predominantly Latino, immigrant community. Over 90% of residents in the project area are people of color with the vast majority being of Latino descent and a small community of African Americans. 3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Measuring Overcrowding in Housing; September 2007 4. 2008-20012 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Fig, 09 Overcrowded renter-occupied units. 2008-2012

Fig. 10 Household with no car. 2008-2012

Fig. 13 Linguistically-Isolated households. 2008-2012

Fig. 14 Population below poverty. 2008-2012

BACKGROUND

Fig. 11 Workers with no cars. 2008-2012

Fig, 12 Foreign born percentage. 2008-2012

Fig. 15 Median household income. 2008-2012

Fig. 16 Project area homeowners percentage. 2008-2012

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Immigrants make up 43% (Fig. 12) of the population compared with 35.3% for the county as a whole and 21.8% of households are linguistically (Fig. 13) isolated compared with 14.8% for the county as a whole5. Pacoima is home to many low-income residents. 23% of the population is below the poverty rate (Fig. 14) compared with 17% for the county as a whole. In all but two census tracts in the project area the median household income is below the countywide average. There are seven census tracts within the project area where the poverty rate is 28% or higher. The CalEnviroScreen tool, created as part of Senate Bill 535, is used to measure communities disproportionately burdened by pollution, defined as “disadvantaged communities.” CalEnviroScreen places Pacoima into the top 10% of most disadvantaged communities and environmentally impacted areas in the state6. SB 535 also established a cap and trade system for polluters and calls for 25% of those funds to go to projects in disadvantaged communities. This program is one important avenue to pursue funding through for environmentally-minded community development projects in Pacoima. Partially due to environmental and demographic conditions, Pacoima residents suffer from a range of chronic diseases. 29.1% of children are diagnosed as obese, while the adult obesity is estimated to be 38.8%7. 7.0% of adults are diagnosed with diabetes, and approximately 7.4% of adults suffer from heart disease8. Obesity and chronic health diseases are linked to factors of the built environment and physical inactivity. As discussed under “The Built Environment” section of this document, Pacoima’s current cityscape consists of sprawl conditions that discourage walking, support vehicular travel, and lacks park and recreational space. These challenges will be addressed by design plans that support walkable and bikeable neighborhoods and encourage an active lifestyle.

The Built Environment Pacoima has a rich historic and cultural legacy that is reflected in its built environment. The neighborhood was first settled in the late 1800’s around a passenger terminal for the Southern Pacific Railroad that ran down present day San Fernando Road. The majority of Pacoima was developed in the postwar period and the built environment is indicative of the planning and development practices of that time. Pacoima was also one of the few places in the San Fernando Valley where African Americans could purchase a home and was the heart of the black community in the Valley during the post-war period. It was also home to a substantial Japanese American and Latino community. Beginning in the latter half of the 20th century, Pacoima became a magnet for immigrants from Mexico and Central America and today its population is overwhelmingly Latino.

Fig. 17-18 Built Environment. There are many intrusive pieces of auto infrastructure in the project area which tarnish the environment.

Typical of the San Fernando Valley, streets are laid out in a grid with major arterials in three-quarter of mile intervals. The streets are often very wide and car oriented with few crosswalks or accommodations for pedestrians. The heavy traffic in the neighborhood and single-use design of streets makes the environment hazardous for pedestrians. Commercial zoning concentrates activity along the arterials and residential zoning is predominantly for single-family homes. The San Fernando Gardens public housing complex makes up a large percentage of the neighborhoods multifamily housing stock. Unlike much of the Valley, Pacoima has industrial zones often interspersed with homes and schools. However, lack of open space and gradual increase in population over the decades, has lent the area an urban feel in spite of its location over 20 miles from 5. 2008-20012 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate; 6. Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, CalEnviroScreen 2.0; October 2014 www.oehha.ca.gov/ej; 7. Los Angeles Department of Public Health, 2008; 8. Los Angeles Department of Public Health, 2007

BACKGROUND

Downtown Los Angeles. This can be partially attributed to a hidden density due to overcrowding and the construction of illegal garage conversions and accessory dwelling units. Pacoima has a variety of lots/parcels that can be redeveloped into more sustainable and accessible, public spaces. There are nine schools in the project area covering over 95 acres. These school parking lots and playgrounds have a high potential to be retrofitted to capture and re-use or infiltrate rainfall on-site. Strategic tree planting can help manage storm flows and offset energy consumption, and a more thoughtful landscape selection can reduce water use. Joint-use of facilities can help meet community needs for active recreation. Due to lack of economic development and deindustrialization over the last several decades, vacant lots are a common feature in Pacoima. However, these lots represent an opportunity for new recreational and open space within the neighborhood. In addition, alleys and other easements can be designed in a way that increases mobility.

HYDROLOGY STUDY As part of the Urban Greening Plan, Pacoima Beautiful, in collaboration with Geosyntec Consultants, the Council for Watershed Health, and DakeLuna, produced a hydrology report complete with conceptual plans to develop several types of multi-benefit stormwater capture projects within the Pacoima neighborhood. The study identified features that can enhance the livability of the region and attract funding partnerships through water resources benefits. Multiple local planning efforts, such as the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power Stormwater Capture Master Plan and the Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation Enhanced Watershed Management Plan, compliment the Pacoima Urban Greening Plan by offering a framework and pathways for implementing water quality projects. Additional opportunities for financial support include the 2014 Water Bond and the US Bureau of Reclamation WaterSmart program. Using the Structural BMP Prioritization and Analysis Tool (SBPAT), hydrologic and water quality modeling was performed to help prioritize locations for typologies and estimate annual average water resource benefits. Results were run through the Groundwater Augmentation Model (GWAM) to better understand soil-water balance and refine recharge estimates. Project typologies associated with various land uses were crafted to illustrate pocket parks, green intersections, green alleys, and green streets at appropriate locations within the Pacoima neighborhood. Subsequently, specific locations were prioritized using the aforementioned SBPAT and GWAM modeling results in addition to extensive outreach performed by Pacoima Beautiful for the Urban Greening Plan. Typologies were then enhanced with potential concept design criteria and sketches of how these ideas may fit into the community. Once full concepts were developed, each project concept was modeled in order to estimate water resource benefits. Projects developed for the hydrology study are capable of capturing more than 100 acre-feet of water for the City of Los Angeles and removing more than 600 pounds of pollutants from waterways including Pacoima Wash, Tujunga Wash, the Los Angeles River, and the Pacific Ocean. Individual typologies are presented in a simple format for easy inclusion in grant applications and funding requests. Considering that water resources benefits vary from location to location and from design to design, Pacoima Beautiful was provided with a customized calculator to assess the potential of future designs to garner financial support. The full report can be found in the appendix of this document.

Fig. 19-20 Drawings from the Hydrology Study by Geosyntec Consultants

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

FUNDING SOURCES A fairly broad array of funding opportunities exists for green infrastructure and open space. This coincides with attempts to make green infrastructure more common across the city. The City of Los Angeles is taking the first steps to weave green infrastructure into transportation projects. The new MS4 permit issued by the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board will require projects that benefit stormwater runoff quality in all cities and the county. In addition, The State of California also offers funding via the State Water Resources Control Board, the Department of Water Resources, and the Strategic Growth Council. This funding has been spent on a variety of projects including green streets and other greening or water management projects. The Federal government has minor funding through the EPA, and more robust, sustained funding through the US Bureau of Reclamation. Below is a summary of the resources available for urban greening, water management projects, and mobility: Fig. 21 Homes on Pierce Street. In spite of its suburban appearance Pacoima has a hidden density due to many garage conversions and accessory dwelling units.

BACKGROUND

Water Bonds Over the past ten years, water bonds have been the main source of state money to support urban greening and water resources projects. Proposition 84, passed in 2006, allocated resources to integrated regional water management projects via the Department of Water Resources, urban greening projects via the Strategic Growth Council, and water quality projects via the State Water Resources Control Board. Proposition 1, passed by California voters in November 2014, allows the state to issue bonds for $7.12 billion and re-appropriates $400 million from previous bonds for water supply infrastructure projects. This $7.5 billion will be used to fund projects within several broad categories: • Clean, Safe and Reliable Drinking Water - $520 million • Protecting Rivers, Lakes, Coastal Waters and Watersheds - $1.5 billion • Regional Water Security, Climate and Drought Prep - $810 million • Statewide Water Storage - $2.7 billion • Water Recycling - $725 million • Groundwater Sustainability & Cleanup - $900 million • Statewide Flood Management - $395 million Within the bond are provisions to support greening community, manage stormwater as a resource, and provide engagement, technical assistance and projects to communities classified as “disadvantaged.” Most of the resources will be conducted as competitive grants and guidelines and will be disbursed through out 2016.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Integrated Regional Water Management Program (IRWMP, California Department of Water Resources): The Greater Los Angeles County Integrated Regional Water Management (GLAC-IRWM) program is an influential organization for water-related projects. Projects that wish to be considered for funding must be submitted to the region’s online database, “Opti”. Projects selected by the regional decision-making structure (sub-regions and leadership committee) must be well developed. There are also costs associated with submitting a project. Funding rounds have accompanied money from water bonds, Propositions 50, 1E, and 84. The most recent was “round 2” from Prop 84, though a call for projects for “round 3a” was submitted in summer 2014 related to the emergency drought legislation that accelerated the spending of Prop 84 dollars. A “round 3b” was issued in October of 2015. Future funding rounds are uncertain. California's Strategic Growth Council The Strategic Growth Council (SGC) is composed of agency secretaries from the Business Consumer Services and Housing Agency, California Health and Human Services, California Environmental Protection Agency, California State Transportation Agency, California Natural Resources Agency, the director of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, and public member Robert Fisher (appointed by the Governor). The SGC Strategic Plan sets forth priorities and actions for a three year period: January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2014. The plan identifies a policy where the intersecting objectives of sustainability overlap with public health, natural resources, transportation, and housing. The SGC is tasked with coordinating the activities of state agencies to promote sustainable communities, economic prosperity, and quality of life for all residents of California. Proposition K Proposition K (Prop K) is a citywide assessment district in Los Angeles which generates twenty-five million dollars in funds each year for the acquisition, improvement, construction, and maintenance of City parks, recreation facilities, and other projects through an annual real property tax assessment on City residents over a 30-year period. Funding is for capital improvements and maintenance. The funds are administered by the Los Angeles City Engineer through a competitive application process. Quimby Funds The State Quimby Act was established by the California legislature in 1965 and provides for the dedication of parkland and/or payment of in-lieu fees as a condition of approval for certain types of residential development projects. Most residential development projects in Los Angeles requesting a subdivision or a zone change are to pay a fee in-lieu, or dedicate land for parks or recreation as a condition of approval of the project. Currently, fees can only be spent, and land can only be dedicated, within a service radius of one to two miles from the development that paid the fee. The City’s Quimby Program is administered by Recreation and Parks (RAP) Planning and Construction Division. The RAP Planning and Construction Division is responsible for planning the acquisition, development, improvement, and restoration of City parks, open spaces, recreation, and community facilities. A Board Report is prepared by the division containing recommendations for the allocation of Quimby Fees for parks in recognized geographic areas within each Council District.

BACKGROUND

Measure R and Measure R 2 Measure R is a 30 year half cent sales tax for Los Angeles County passed by voters in 2008. The funds are for the expansion and improvement of transportation infrastructure. Most of the funds in Measure R are earmarked for specific projects and no funding is directly allocated to pedestrian and bike infrastructure. However, 15% is allocated to cities within the county for discretionary use on transportation infrastructure and many cities have used these funds for bike and pedestrian improvements. Currently, Metro and local Councils of Governments are considering putting another sales tax on the 2016 ballot for transportation. Many people refer to this new proposition as Measure R 2. It is a possibility that a percentage of these funds will be specifically earmarked for bike and pedestrian infrastructure.

Active Transportation Grant The Active Transportation Program (ATP) is a statewide funding source for active transportation projects created in 2013. This program consolidates several existing federal and state transportation programs into a single program. ATP is administered by the Division of Local Assistance, Office of Active Transportation and Special Programs. The purpose of ATP is to encourage increased use of active modes of transportation by achieving the following goals: • Increase the proportion of trips accomplished by biking and walking; • Increase safety and mobility for non-motorized users; • Advance the active transportation efforts of regional agencies to achieve greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals; • Enhance public health; • Ensure that disadvantaged communities fully share in the benefits of the program, and; • Provide a broad spectrum of projects to benefit many types of active transportation users. Only cities are eligible to apply for the ATP program, however, non-profits and community based organizations can collaborate with cities on applications. Funding is allocated first at a state wide level and then by local Metropolitan Planning Organizations, such as Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). Both planning and capital projects are eligible for funding.

Cap-and-Trade The California Cap-and-Trade program resulted from AB 32, which requires the state to return to 1990 levels of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. The program auctions off carbon allowances to polluting entities across the state. The revenue is then directed back into programs meant to further reduce carbon emissions. The 2014-2015 expenditure plans directs $250,000,000 into low carbon transportation and wetlands and watershed restoration.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

COMMUNITY OUTREACH In order for the Pacoima Urban Greening Plan to reflect the needs and aspirations of Pacoima residents and stakeholders, a large community outreach effort was undertaken. The overall goal of this outreach was to make community members stakeholders in this plan so they could help advocate for its implementation. In order to achieve this, our outreach strategy was designed to reach a large and diverse segment of the Pacoima community and allow them to share their vision for the neighborhood. This information was then used to extrapolate interventions that would improve the quality of life of residents. The community outreach process took a multi-pronged approach involving different types of engagement in order to reach as many stakeholders as possible. Notes from these meetings are compiled in the appendix.

Top: Fig. 22-23 Community mapping exercise during focus groups. Right: Fig. 24 The Bradley Avenue Block party event demonstrated elements of the Urban Greening Plan and allowed the community to give feedback.

BACKGROUND

Focus Groups A key outreach strategy was hosting many small focus groups with existing community organizations. A list of organizations within the project area were compiled which included neighborhood councils, neighborhood watch groups, and parent centers at local schools. Through targeting a diverse range of organizations, residents and community stakeholders who might not normally attend planning workshops were reached. These meetings began with a presentation describing the goals and purpose of the Urban Greening Plan. Then, different types of interventions targeting the goals of the plan were described. The purpose of the presentation was to encourage people to think about the challenges that exist in the neighborhood and possible solutions. Community Presentations: • Pacoima Holiday Parade Festival, December 13, 2013 • San Fernando High School Environmental Club, January 15, 2014 • Telfair Elementary Parent Center, January 16, 2014 • San Fernando Gardens Residents Advisory Council, January 17, 2014 • Pacoima Beautiful Members, January 23, 2014 • Sharp Elementary Parent Center, February 4, 2014 • Pinney Neighborhood Watch, February 5, 2014 • Youth United Towards Environmental Protection (YUTEP), February 5, 2014 • Pacoima Neighborhood Council Outreach Committee, February 6, 2014 • Pacoima Middle School Parent Center, February 10, 2014

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

• Sarah Coughlin Elementary Parent Center, February 19, 2014 • Pacoima Neighborhood Council General Board Meeting, February 19, 2014 • Pacoima Community Initiative, April 11, 2014

TOP PRIORITIES TRAILS PEDESTRIAN AMENITIES STREET TREES BIKE PATHS OUTDOOR EXERCISE MACHINES

The second part of the meeting consisted of a mapping exercise. Large maps of the project area were laid out on tables. Pens, markers, and small icons with pictures of the various interventions that were described in the presentation were placed around the maps. Meeting participants were then asked to write down or draw what routes they take in their neighborhood, what challenges or issues they have, and indicate through writing or drawing or placing icons where they would like to see new infrastructure go. The mapping exercise was very valuable because it targeted infrastructure in places where it met community needs and also identified neighborhood issues at an extremely local level. It also revealed assets such as vacant lots and alleys that can be repurposed into new community amenities. After the mapping exercise, participants were asked to report back on what they put on the map. The data collected during the focus group mapping can be found in the appendix. The mapping data was then recorded and categorized using GIS. These maps helped locate the focal points and nodes within the project area and acted as the basis for the interventions proposed in this document.

PLAY STRUCTURE PICNIC TABLE PUBLIC ART PLAZA/TOWN SQUARE GREEN ALLEY

After a draft of the Pacoima Urban Greening Plan was created, a second round of focus groups was held with a portion of the previously engaged organizations to gain feedback. This was to ensure that the plan actually reflected the issues brought up by the community.

COMMUNITY GARDEN FARMERS MARKET PEDESTRIAN STREET POCKET PARKS DOG PARK SKATE PARK PARKLET BIKE RACKS

LOW PRIORITY DOG PARK PARKLET SKATE PARK PEDESTRIAN STREET PUBLIC ART FARMERS MARKET POCKET PARKS COMMUNITY GARDEN BIKE RACKS PLAZA/TOWN SQUARE GREEN ALLEY

Surveys In coordination with Creative Open Space Los Angeles, 685 residents and neighborhood stakeholders were surveyed on issues related to the Urban Greening Plan. The surveys were conducted by trained, neighborhood residents in both English and Spanish. The surveyors were dispersed around the community and to neighborhood events such as the Pacoima Holiday Parade and various neighborhood cleanups. The survey questions were drafted based on best practices for open space surveys developed by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Chicago. However, many of the questions were specific to the unique conditions of the project area. The survey questions gaged residents opinions on nine open space typologies; pocket parks, green alleys, parklets, street trees, street amenities, pedestrian streets, farmers markets, community gardens, and plazas (these were the same typologies described during focus group meetings). Residents ranked these typologies based on need for their neighborhood and also suggested locations for these facilities. Residents were also asked general questions on what type of dwelling they live in, if they have children, and how accessible open space is to them. Complete survey results can be found in the appendix.

PICNIC TABLES OUTDOOR EXERCISE MACHINES BIKE PATHS

Community Event

STREET TREES PLAY STRUCTURE PEDESTRIAN AMENITIES TRAILS

Fig. 25-26 COSLA Survey Results. The high and low priorities for community members in Pacoima.

The focus groups and surveys culminated into a large community event. On April 19, 2014, one block of Bradley Avenue, adjacent to Van Nuys Boulevard and the San Fernando Gardens Public Housing complex, was closed to traffic and turned into a pedestrian plaza for the day. The goal of this event was to demonstrate how neighborhood infrastructure could be repurposed into public space. Performances and a mini farmers market took place during the event and various stations where residents could give input on the Urban Greening Plan where set up. A large, temporary mural depicting a map of Pacoima was created by local artist

BACKGROUND

Kristy Sandoval and attendees were asked to write or draw neighborhood issues and desires on it, much like during the focus group meetings. James Rojas, a nationally known expert on public engagement in urban planning issues, led groups of children and adults in building their ideal public space using found objects. A second community event was held to gain feedback on the draft of the plan. This event took on an open house format where different stations were assembled highlighting the different types of interventions proposed by the plan. A facilitator was at each station to receive feedback. This feedback was then integrated into the final draft of the plan.

HIGHLIGHTS During the focus group, residents were also asked to describe issues that they encountered living in the project area. These issues ranged from things that might make them feel unsafe and less likely to walk or bike throughout the neighborhood. These issues represent opportunities for interventions that might improve certain areas of the community. The list below summarizes issues that are important to community residents. Illegal Dumping The illegal dumping of garbage, furniture, construction debris and other items is a serious concern for neighborhood residents. This activity tends to happen in alleys or in areas of the community that are perceived to be hidden or desolate. However, residents have also cited it happening on sidewalks along residential streets. These items are not only unsightly, but present a hazard to pedestrians because they create a barrier on public sidewalks and right-of-ways. Illegal dumping can also exacerbate flooding during storm events. Pedestrian Safety Pedestrian safety was an issue brought up by many stakeholders. Major streets such as Van Nuys Boulevard and Paxton Street were cited as places where people feel unsafe. This is particularly problematic because these streets are in close proximity to schools and other important community hubs. The most common reason for people feeling unsafe is the high speed of traffic, and lack of pedestrian facilities, such as adequate sidewalks, lighting, and crosswalks. Crime Crime and the perception of crime were also cited as a serious issue. Places where residents tend to feel unsafe are around Pacoima Plaza of the Stars and the San Fernando Gardens public housing complex. Street Lights A major concern for residents is the lack of lighting, particularly on neighborhood streets. Residents feel that the lack of lighting makes it unsafe to walk or bike around these areas. Poor Maintenance of Existing Open Spaces Several community members brought up issues relating to poor maintenance at existing parks particularly on sports fields. The two parks mentioned were David Gonzalez Park and Hansen Dam Recreation Center.

VISION PLAN

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

GREEN STREETS The findings of the COSLA Survey revealed that community members believe that there is currently a lack of pedestrian amenities to promote safety, convenience, and predictability along the sidewalks of Pacoima. Establishing a network of Green Streets will transform roads in Pacoima from primarily serving cars to meeting a range of environmental and mobility needs. Green Streets remove impervious concrete or asphalt surfaces on portions of existing thoroughfares and turn them into landscaped, permeable green spaces that capture stormwater. Green Streets also include plants

Top: Fig. 27 Portland Green Street Right: Fig. 28 Potential Green Street at Van Nuys Blvd.

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

and soil to naturally filter water and recharge groundwater supply. This type of infrastructure enhances the pedestrian experience, improves connectivity, and promotes the feeling of safety by efficiently serving both motorized and non-motorized users while providing stormwater capture and remediation. Green Streets can also feature traffic calming measures to slow speeds and create intersection improvements to provide safer bicycle and pedestrian crossings and access. Wider sidewalks promote walking and can accommodate water quality features that treat stormwater runoff. Improved curb ramps at all intersections will improve accessibility. These features provide attractive streetscapes while also creating natural habitat. Green Streets are also an opportunity to introduce additional street trees. Street trees have multiple benefits including providing shade which is particularly important in the hot climate of Pacoima. Street trees also address the urban heat island affect and can help alleviate the effects of climate change such as severe heat days. Urban tree horticultural practices such as structural soil should be used to ensure that street trees are resilient and conserve water. While restoring watershed quality and enhancing neighborhood livability, Green Streets would simultaneously assist in cleaning and cooling the air and water of Pacoima and Los Angeles as a whole. This approach will help meet regulatory requirements for pollutant reduction and water resources management. To assess whether a street would be a viable candidate for transformation into a Green Street, it is important to acknowledge the following engineering considerations to ensure adequate efficiency of the streets improvement:

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

GREEN STREETS GUIDELINES: 01

Incorporate access needs for local businesses, including loading activities and utility vehicles.

Increase buffering for pedestrians from through traffic.

05 Special paving along sidewalk to promote pedestrian activities and provide a consistent branding along the corridor.

Where to apply:

TITLE

Accommodate pedestrian needs, especially to allow an efficient flow of pedestrians between parked cars, sidewalk, and adjacent buildings.

Considers stormwater infiltration and drainage where feasible.

• • •

In locations with high levels of pedestrian activity In locations with high volume of through traffic Where there is a desire for pedestrian environment in the public realm

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Engineering Considerations Crosswalks Marked crosswalks are an essential tool for helping pedestrians move safely and comfortably across roadways. Crosswalks can also provide a unique streetscape design treatment that celebrates the local community while emphasizing the presence of pedestrians. Marked crosswalks also allow drivers to anticipate crossing pedestrians and encourage safe pedestrian access at desirable locations. Although many motorists are unaware of the legal obligations at crosswalks, the California Vehicle Code requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in any crosswalk, whether marked or unmarked. Green Street design should emphasize and highlight crosswalks as a fundamental part of the pedestrian environment. This is particularly important in Pacoima where many major streets lack crosswalks. On Van Nuys Boulevard through the project area, only 50% of intersections have crosswalks9. Crosswalk Design In general, crosswalks need to be as wide as the sidewalk, but in a location with high pedestrian demand, crosswalks should be wider. Per federal accessibility guidelines, crosswalks should be no less than 10 feet in width and must incorporate curb ramps and tactile warning strips. Uncontrolled Intersections: Intersections that do not contain traffic signals or stop signs are considered uncontrolled intersections. The decision to convert an uncontrolled intersection to a marked crosswalk at an uncontrolled location should be guided by an engineering evaluation that considers vehicular volumes and speeds, roadway width and configuration, stopping sight distance, distance to the next controlled crossing, night time visibility, grade, and pedestrian volumes. High-Visibility Crosswalks: Due to the low approach angle at which pavement markings are seen by drivers, traditional transverse markings should be replaced to longitudinal stripes to increase the visibility of a crosswalk to oncoming traffic. Mid-Block Crosswalks: Provide crossing access to pedestrians when other crossing opportunities are distant or where a destination creates high crossing demand. Closely spaced intersections provide pedestrians with access to crosswalks without having to go out of their way. Hydrology Green Streets infrastructure must take into account the hydrology of the surrounding area. This includes taking into consideration where water is coming from, the volume of water, the amount of pollutants in the water, and the infiltration rate of soil in the area. As part of this document, a hydrological analysis of the project area was prepared containing all of this information. 9. Podemski, Max. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Want people to walk in L.A.? Then we need more crosswalks.â&#x20AC;? Los Angeles Times May 28th 2015.

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

SEATING STREET / PEDESTRIAN LIGHTING DRY AND WET TOLLERANT STREET TREE NEW CURB (AND GUTTER) WITH CURB CUTS TRASH / RECYCLING RECEPTACLES DRY AND WET PLANTING

Sidewalk

Flow Thru Parking Planting Designated Bike Lane

Existing Traffic lanes

Parking

Flow Thru Planting

Sidewalk

Designated Bike Lane

Fig. 29 Green Street Section

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Top: Fig. 30 Rain Garden, Fig. 31 Parking Lane Planters Right: Fig. 32 Permeable Paver

Filtration All storm drains located on a Green Street should include filters that will collect runoff waste, oils, and other debris prior to entry into the watershed. It must also look at anticipated flow, and improve the environment/ biological health of the local hydrological systems. Common Filtration Methods Permeable Paving {Fig. 32}: Street and sidewalk paving materials that allow stormwater to filter through to the soil below. Permeable paving materials such as porous concrete or unit pavers may look similar to traditional paving materials, but allow air and water to pass through the paving material, providing the opportunity for temporary storage of stormwater runoff and/or groundwater recharge into the soils below. Street Trees: The most important element of the street environment. Street trees should always be included in the design of complete streets. Street trees have been shown to create numerous benefits, including: reduced stormwater runoff, more shade, improved air quality, enhanced property values in residential neighborhoods, increased spending in commercial areas, and enhanced beauty and visual interest.

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

Street and Sidewalk Pocket Parks: Small, active public spaces created in the existing public right-ofway. They can be located in medians, curb extensions, or in the furnishings zone on sufficiently wide sidewalks. In addition to landscaping, pocket parks may include seating areas, play areas, community garden space, or other elements to encourage active use of the public open space. Pocket parks provide important public space in areas with high-density land use and areas deficient in open space. Rain Gardens {Fig. 30}: Planted depressions designed to collect and absorb stormwater runoff from nearby paved surfaces, such as streets and sidewalks. They combine engineered stormwater control and treatment with aesthetic landscaping. Depending on soil conditions, they can be designed to remove pollutants from stormwater using biological processes, slow the movement of stormwater through the landscape and/or allow the water to seep into the soils below. Parking Lane Planters {Fig. 31}: Landscaped sidewalk extensions placed between parking spaces at regular intervals or at specific locations. They provide space for street trees and landscaping on streets with narrow sidewalks, where tree planting is limited by conflicts with utilities or driveways, or where there is a desire to visually narrow the roadway.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Bioretention Planters {Fig. 33}: Used to capture rooftop runoff from disconnected downspouts. Because they can be effective even in small installations, bioretention planters are appropriate in constrained locations where other stormwater facilities are not possible. If the soils beneath the bioretention planters are free of soil or groundwater contamination and porous enough to absorb the rainwater quickly, then bioretention planters can be designed to allow the water to infiltrate into the soils below. If infiltration is not feasible, they can be designed as flow-through systems that collect the water temporarily in pools before filtering and releasing it slowly into the sewer system. Storing the water onsite in a bioretention planter during heavy storms frees up capacity in the combined sewer system. Fig. 33 Bioretention Planters

Street lighting Street lighting is a key organizing streetscape element that defines the nighttime visual environment in urban settings. Street lighting includes roadway and pedestrian lighting in the public right-of-way. Street light poles and fixtures can also create a defining visual characteristic during daylight hours. Quality street lighting helps define a positive urban character and supports nighttime activities. The quality of visual information is critical for both traffic safety and pedestrian safety and security. Lighting should be designed not only for vehicular traffic on the roadways, but also for pedestrians on sidewalks and pedestrian paths. Green Streets should include streetlights powered with LED bulbs and/or solar power. Traffic Flow Green Streets should encourage a safe vehicular speed and discourage cut-through in residential neighborhoods, with the goal of enhancing pedestrian safety and improving neighborhood livability. Traffic calming features may also contribute to the aesthetic quality of the streetscape. The installation of traffic calming features can help reduce noise pollution and lessen road repairs, which would save money on road maintenance. Streets which connect to major nodes are candidates for potential green streets making safe, comfortable, non-vehicular connections to local destinations, parks, schools and other community assets. When assessing whether or not to develop a Green Street, it is necessary to evaluate the balance between the right of way dedication to transit vehicles, automobiles, bikes and pedestrians – assuring essential traffic flow and favoring improved transit services while encouraging increased bicycling and pedestrian use. Traffic calming Features include: Chicanes {Fig. 34}: A series of alternating mid-block curb extensions or islands that narrow the roadway and require vehicles to follow a curving, S-shaped path, which discourages speeding. Chicanes can also create new areas for landscaping and public space along the roadway. Curb extensions {Fig. 37}: An extension of the sidewalk into the parking lane to narrow the roadway and provide additional pedestrian space at key locations (commonly used at corners and at mid-block). Curb extensions enhance pedestrian safety by increasing pedestrian visibility, shortening crossing distances, slowing turning vehicles, and visually narrowing the roadway.

Fig. 34 Chicanes

Curb Radius Changes: The shape of a corner curb radius (the radius defined by two sidewalks on perpendicular streets that come together at a corner) has a significant effect on the overall operation

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

Top: Fig. 35 Vegetated Median, Fig. 36 Raised Crosswalks Left: Fig. 37 Curb Extension

and safety of an intersection. Smaller turning radii increase pedestrian safety by shortening crossing distances, increasing pedestrian visibility, and decreasing vehicle turning speed. The shape and dimensions of curb radii vary based on street type and transportation context. Medians and Islands {Fig. 35}: Space provided pedestrian safety features and traffic control devices, amenities, landscaping and stormwater management. They can provide traffic calming and aesthetic benefit, but the addition of medians alone may also cause an increase in vehicle speeds by reducing friction between opposing directions of traffic. Where no median is present, raised islands can be used as traffic calming features to briefly narrow the traveled way, either in mid-block locations, or to create gateways at entrances to residential streets. Raised Crosswalks {Fig. 36}: When the level of the roadway is brought to that of the sidewalk, forcing vehicles to slow before passing over the crosswalk and providing a level pedestrian path of travel from curb to curb. Raised crosswalks can be located at intersections or mid-block. At intersection locations, the raised area can be extended to include the entire intersection. Speed Humps: A rounded device across the roadway that causes vehicles to reduce speed. They are sometimes broken up to allow a clear path for bicyclists, and contain signage and paint markings so that they are visible. They are typically used on residential streets where there is a desire to slow vehicle speeds.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Potential Green Streets Laurel Canyon Boulevard from Paxton Street to Branford Street [a] Laurel Canyon Boulevard is a major east-west running street. It connects several neighborhood facilities including San Fernando High School, Ritchie Valens Park, Pacoima Middle School, Burt Corona Charter School, Mary Immaculate Church/School, and Montague Charter School. It also contains other religious and cultural institutions such as the Khalsa Care Foundation Gurdwara and the San Fernando Valley Japanese Community Center. Other nodes include a shopping center containing a Target and Food 4 Less. Laurel Canyon is also a transit corridor that carries the 230 bus to Studio City. The street has high potential for water infiltration and is planned to have a priority bike lane under the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bike plan. The communities to the south of Laurel Canyon are some of the poorest in the project area with 28% of households being below the poverty rate. This corridor also passes through areas with high rates of households without cars and very high rates of youth who use this corridor to get to school and other services.

LEGEND Site Boundary Existing Parks Proposed Green Streets

Van Nuys Boulevard from Laurel Canyon Boulevard to Glenoaks Boulevard [B] Van Nuys Boulevard is the main artery of Pacoima and is home to the majority of the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial and cultural amenities, as well as government and non-profit services. As the main business corridor in the neighborhood, it is a pedestrian friendly business district from Laurel Canyon Boulevard to San Fernando Road, with stores and restaurants that give the street a local flavor. Van Nuys Boulevard is also lined with many murals that have become a cultural attraction with regular tours that draw people from across the region. Important facilities line Van Nuys, including the Pacoima Library, Pacoima Post Office, Pacoima City Hall, banks, MEND, Neighborhood Legal Services, Valley Economic Development Center, Chrysalis, Pacoima Beautiful, San Fernando Gardens, Pacoima Charter School, the Pacoima Community Center, and Pacoima Plaza of the Stars. The Boulevard is the second busiest transit corridor in the San Fernando Valley after the Orange Line with two bus lines including the 761 Rapid Bus and the 233 local bus, both of which run to Westwood. Currently, the north segment of the street-from San Fernando to Foothill-has a bike lane. The southern segment is planned for a priority bike lane under the mobility plan. The entire corridor through the project area is part of the Transit Enhanced Network in

Proposed Green Streets A

Laurel Canyon Blvd

Van Nuys Blvd

Haddon Ave

Paxton St

Pierce St

Glenoaks Blvd

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

FO H OT I LL VD BL

PACOIMA

E TO

X PA

210

BR AD VE YA

B KS D LV

118

F D

La Milla

WHITEMAN AIRPORT

B YS

D LV

N SA RN

N VA

AN DO

HA DD

R ER

ON E AV

LA UR EL N CA N YO VD BL

GO LD TE TA

S EN Y

FW OS

A BR

Fig. 38 Potential Green Street Locations

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Fig. 39 Existing pedestrian tunnel at Haddon Ave.

the Mobility Plan. The segment of the street between Laurel Canyon and Bradley Avenue has been designated a Great Street by Mayor Eric Garcetti. During the community outreach process many residents identified Van Nuys Boulevard as needing amenities. This included targeted street trees, lighting, wider sidewalks, and street furniture. The northern section near Herrick Street, which is adjacent to several schools, was identified during outreach as being unsafe. The census tract containing San Fernando Gardens is also along this corridor and is one of the poorest in the project area. Haddon Avenue from the Pacoima Wash to Van Nuys Boulevard [C] Unlike most of the green street candidates, which are major arterials, Haddon Avenue is a small neighborhood collector street. However, this corridor is an important route to connect to San Fernando High School, Telfair Elementary School, Ritchie Valens Park, and the future Pacoima Wash Greenway. Haddon Avenue passes through two areas with above average youth populations. In addition, this project

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

area has two census tracts that have an above average poverty rate and an above average amount of households that do not own cars. Paxton Street from Laurel Canyon Boulevard to Glenoaks Boulevard [d] Paxton Street is a major thoroughfare paralleling the 118 Freeway. The street is mainly a mix of industrial and residential uses with some commercial use at major intersections. Several major community hubs are along the street including Ritchie Valens Park, Telfair Elementary, and Plaza Pacoima. Because of the access it provides to the freeway, Paxton Street is a heavily used truck corridor. Paxton Street, particularly the section between San Fernando Road and Laurel Canyon Boulevard, was identified during outreach as an area that needs added street amenities. Many residents want a better connection to Ritchie Valens Park and think the portion of the street around Telfair Elementary is unsafe for pedestrians. The entire corridor within the project area is planned for a bike lane under the Los Angeles Bike Plan, which is particularly valuable because this corridor passes through an area where many households do not own cars.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Fig. 40 Proposed pedestrian tunnel at Haddon Ave.

Pierce Street from Laurel Canyon Boulevard to Glenoaks Boulevard [E] Pierce Street is an important north south thoroughfare. It is primarily residential with pockets of industrial use. It has a high amount of multifamily housing along it, including the San Fernando Gardens Housing complex. Community hubs along the street include Maclay Middle School and David Gonzalez Park. The connectivity it provides and narrow width gives it a high potential as a pedestrian and cyclist corridor. However, the street currently has few amenities and does not have paved sidewalks or storm drains in certain sections. The entire street is planned to receive a bike lane and the northern segment from San Fernando Road to Foothill Boulevard is currently in development. The corridor is also designated as a Neighborhood Connector under the Mobility Plan. Pierce Street was one of the most cited streets during outreach as needing street amenities. Street lighting was a particular concern, especially between Telfair Street and San Fernando Road. Three of the five census tracts along this corridor have poverty rates of over 28%. All have above average numbers of youth with three tracts having a youth populations of over 30%.

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

Glenoaks Boulevard /Osborne Street from Paxton Street to â&#x20AC;&#x153;La Millaâ&#x20AC;? [F] Glenoaks Boulevard is a major thoroughfare that runs from Sylmar to Glendale. The street is primarily residential with commercial activity occurring at major cross streets. It connects many community hubs including Mercado del Valle, the Pacoima Community Center, Pacoima Plaza of the Stars, Maclay Middle Schools, and Hansen Dam Recreation Center. It is an important transit route carrying a segment of the 761 Rapid Bus as well as the 292 bus, which runs to Burbank. Glenoaks currently has a bike lane along the entire stretch and was cited during outreach as needing street trees. The Glenoaks corridor passes through an area with a high youth population and several schools. In all but one of the census tracts, over 16% of households do not own cars. There is also a very high rate of poverty in this area.

Top: Fig. 41 Existing sidewalk on Van Nuys Blvd. Right: Fig. 42 Proposed Green Street on Van Nuys Blvd.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

VISION PLAN: GREEN STREETS

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

GREEN INTERSECTIONS Large arterial streets form the main commercial areas and transport routes of the San Fernando Valley. The areas where these arterials intersect are often important community hubs having concentrations of large commercial facilities, transit stops, and informal activities. This is particularly true in Pacoima, where large intersections contain many key neighborhood destinations. Despite the importance of these places in the life of the community, they remain extremely car oriented. Enhanced “Green” intersections maximize pedestrian visibility and use traffic-calming measures that slow vehicles and promote pedestrian safety by minimizing crossing distance, time and exposure to potential conﬂicts. This infrastructure will make these intersections safer while also aiding in “place making” that better accommodates the types of activities that occur there.

Fig. 43 Existing intersection at Van Nuys Blvd and Glenoaks Blvd

VISION PLAN: GREEN INTERSECTIONS

Enhanced intersections offer safe crossing that is aesthetically pleasing and allows access at key locations for vehicular and pedestrian circulation. These intersections will occur at arterial intersections and will be constructed of premium materials such as colored asphalts and concrete with paint patterns. Wayfinding signage, including maps, should be installed to help pedestrians navigate their way to local businesses and destinations, such as Hansen Dam and The Pacoima Wash Greenway Systems. Public art and environmental graphics may be installed to create new landmarks and public spaces. Accommodations will also be made via bulb outs and other infrastructure to better accommodate the large amount of transit riders at these intersections.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

GREEN INTERSECTIONS GUIDELINES: 01

Include traffic-calming measures such as lighting, bicycle signals, improved signage.

Provide median for a pedestrian refuge on wide streets where those on foot cannot cross the entire street in one phases.

Incorporate public art.

All spaces and circulation should be ADA-compliant to standards for grading and surfacing materials.

Where to apply:

VISION PLAN: GREEN INTERSECTIONS

Incorporate visible crosswalks and graphic surfaces at intersections.

Include streetscape amenities such as site furniture, lighting, vegetation, signage and paving.

07 Incorporate parking restrictions at corners to increase pedestrian visibility.

• • • •

At busy intersections, along heavily used streets At freeway on-ramps and off-ramps At intersections connecting to major destinations and community assets On proposed Green Streets

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Potential GreeN Intersections Van Nuys Boulevard and Laurel Canyon Boulevard [A] The intersection of Van Nuys Boulevard and Laurel Canyon is an area with a high poverty rate and large youth population. In an adjacent census tract, over 8% of households do not own cars. The Van Nuys-Laurel Canyon intersection is also a major transit transfer point and the beginning of the Van Nuys Business district. Because of this, there are a high number of pedestrians in this area. Van Nuys Boulevard and San Fernando Road [B] Van Nuys Boulevard and San Fernando Road is at the center of the project area and is a major transport and commercial hub. There is an at-grade railroad crossing with Metrolink and freight trains passing every half hour during the day. Metrolink is currently planning to install a second track in this area and increase the number of trains passing through . The San Fernando Road corridor is also currently being studied for the California High Speed Rail as well as the East Valley Transit Line being planned by Metro. Stops for five different bus lines are located at this intersection, and the corners of each block are often crowded with residents waiting or disembarking from buses. San Fernando Road also marks the northern end of the Van Nuys business district and many stores and restaurants are located within close proximity of the intersection. A new mall called the Zocalito recently opened in the southwest corner of the intersection. The San Fernando Road bikeway, which was completed in the summer of 2014, also passes through this intersection. The area around this intersection has some of the lowest incomes in the project area a relatively low rate of car ownership. There is also a very high youth population in this area. Van Nuys Boulevard and Glenoaks Boulevard [C] Glenoaks Boulevard and Van Nuys Boulevard is the intersection of two important corridors and adjacent to many important facilities. This includes stops for five bus lines and the Pacoima Plaza of the Stars shopping complex containing a pharmacy, grocery store, bank, discount store and restaurants. The Pacoima Community Center and Alicia Broadous-Duncan Multi-Purpose Senior Center is one block west of the intersection. The intersection is also an informal meeting place for many neighborhood residents. Small vendors often set up at the entrances of Pacoima Plaza of the Starts with coolers of tamales and fresh fruit. Three of the four census tracts adjacent to this intersection have youth populations above 30% and poverty rates above 28%. There is higher than average number of homes that do not own a car.

LEGEND Site Boundary Existing Parks Proposed Green Intersection

Proposed Green Intersections A

Van Nuys Blvd + Laurel Canyon Blvd

B Van Nuys Blvd + San Fernando Rd C

Van Nuys Blvd + Glenoaks Blvd

D Osborne St + Laurel Canyon Blvd E

Paxton St + Laurel Canyon Blvd

Osborne St + â&#x20AC;&#x153;La Millaâ&#x20AC;?

VISION PLAN: GREEN INTERSECTIONS

FO H OT I LL VD BL

PACOIMA GL B KS OA EN D LV

210

BR AD VE YA

118

X PA

La Milla

NN VA

SB UY

D LV

WHITEMAN AIRPORT

N SA

R ER

FE RN AN DO RD

GO LD TE TA

S EN NE

D HA

R BO

ON E AV

LA EL N CA N YO VD BL A BR

Fig. 44 Potential Green Intersection Locations

Top: Fig. 45 Existing intersection at Van Nuys Blvd and Glendoaks Blvd. Right: Fig. 46 Proposed Green Intersection at Van Nuys Blvd and Glendoaks Blvd.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

VISION PLAN: GREEN INTERSECTIONS

Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Osborne Street [D] This area is not only the intersection of two important corridors, but also adjacent to many other community hubs. These include a shopping center containing a Target, Ross, a Chase Bank and a Food 4 Less, as well as several schools nearby including Pacoima Middle School, Montague Charter Academy and Burt Corona Charter School. Other institutions in this area include the San Fernando Valley JapaneseAmerican Community Center. This area has a higher than average youth population and the census tract to the south has a poverty rate above 28%. Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Paxton Street [E] This intersection is adjacent to Ritchie Valens Park and Paxton Park which constitute one of the largest recreational facilities in Pacoima. These parks have many amenities including basketball courts, a skateboard park, baseball fields, a pool, a recreation center, and an inclusive playground designed by Shane’s Inspiration to accommodate users of different abilities. The park is also adjacent to the Paxton Street and Laurel Canyon Boulevard intersection. These two streets connect to several schools including Telfair Elementary and San Fernando High School. Paxton Park is also the southern terminus for the Pacoima Wash Greenway, and any linkage to the southern stretch of the Wash will need to go through the park. This area has a higher than average youth population and the census tract to the south has a poverty rate above 28%. Osborne Street and “La Milla” (the Mile) [f] Hansen Dam is an important recreation area for the surrounding community. The top of Hansen Dam is a popular jogging and walking path known as “La Milla.” Osborne Street is an important access point to La Milla and the surrounding park space for Pacoima residents. A small parking lot adjacent to this intersection is frequently occupied by vendors selling food and drinks. Almost no pedestrian amenities exist for Pacoima residents to access La Milla. Osborne Street is a four lane major arterial where cars travel at high speeds. The sidewalk along the street is only on the west side and is in a state of disrepair with cracked pavement. No crosswalk exists for pedestrians to go from the sidewalk on the west side to La Milla on the east side, creating an incredibly dangerous situation for any residents brave enough to access the park on foot.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

POCKET PARKS Parks are particularly needed in Pacoima because of the high rate of children, high population density, overcrowded housing and high rates of obesity. Making parks more accessible and appealing are a way to encourage healthier lifestyles through physical activities. Because the neighborhood is built out, very few large parcels exist where parks can be built. However, there are many vacant and underutilized lots in the neighborhood, which are often in disrepair and attract illegal dumping. These parcels provide an opportunity to incrementally increase the amount of total open space in Pacoima and transform these blighted spaces into an amenity.

Fig. 47 Existing conditions at Potential Pocket Park location at Judd St. and Lehigh Ave.

VISION PLAN: POCKET PARKS

Currently, several vacant lots and parking lots already serve as defacto public spaces. Vacant or underutilized parcels can also be considered for infill urban gardens, creating a productive communal open space that helps educate residents on how food is grown while fostering a sense of ownership for ongoing individual garden upkeep and maintenance. Since pocket parks are generally smaller by nature, safety remains a concern. This Vision Plan proposes that pocket parks be located near schools and community centers, where organized social functions and neighborhood events help create safe environments. Pocket parks should also be placed near community hubs, adjacent to community service centers, providing a linkage between the residential and commercial domain. Because of this, although many vacant lots exist in the project area not all are appropriate for pocket parks. Some lots may also be better suited to meet other community needs. The sites that are proposed in this document were identified as being best suited for a pocket park.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

POCKET PARKS GUIDELINES: 01

In addition to aesthetic features, provide a variety of open space functions including active and social activities.

Differentiate the park space from the adjacent space by using different paving or landscaped features.

All spaces should be ADA-Compliant to standard for grading and surface materials.

Allow for visibility into and throughout the space, promoting a sense of openness and safety.

Where to apply:

VISION PLAN: POCKET PARKS

Use landscape features such as headges, fences, bollards or low walls to create and maintain a safety buffer from vehicular traffic. To optimize visibility, it is not recommended that the buffer be over 30in in height.

Include stormwater infiltration and drainage into design.

• • • •

Oversized sidewalks Medians Excess Right-of-Ways Vacant lots

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Potential Pocket Park Locations El Dorado Avenue and Judd Street [a] This 35,000 square foot, flat rectangular lot is ideal for a pocket park. It is in a residential neighborhood between El Dorado Street and San Fernando Road and has two entrances, one from El Dorado and one from Ilex Avenue, This lot is in one of the most overcrowded census tracts in the project area and is adjacent to several census tracts with extremely high youth populations and a very low income census tract. A high amount of residents do not own cars. Judd Street and Lehigh Avenue [b] This 5,000 square foot lot occupies the corner of the intersection of Judd and Lehigh Street. This location gives it very good sight lines in and out of the park. It is located in the middle of a residential neighborhood and is adjacent to a very low income census tract. The surrounding neighborhood has a high rate of homes with no cars and a high rate of youth.

LEGEND Site Boundary Existing Parks Proposed Parks

Borden Avenue and Gain Street [c] This parcel is composed of three lots that are currently owned by the Catholic Church. The parcels are zoned for open space and have a total of over 283,199 square feet, making it a major opportunity to introduce new open space to the area. Its location also provides a connection between Pacoima and Hansen Dam. An adjacent census tract to these lots has an above average poverty rate for the county. It also has an above average amount of overcrowding and a high youth population.

Proposed Parks A

El Dorado Ave at Judd St

Judd St at Lehigh Ave

Borden Ave at Gain St

VISION PLAN: POCKET PARKS

FO OT HI LL VD BL

PACOIMA EN GL B KS OA D LV

210

BR AD VE YA

A 118

X PA

La Milla

WHITEMAN AIRPORT

N VA

B YS

D LV

N SA

R ER

FE AN DO RD

GO LD EN E AT ST

Y FW

ON E AV

LA EL N CA N YO VD BL A BR

Fig. 48 Potential Pocket Park Locations

Top: Fig. 49 Existing conditions at Judd St. and Lehigh Ave. Right: Fig. 50 Proposed Pocket Park at Judd St. and Lehigh Ave.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

VISION PLAN: POCKET PARKS

Top: Fig. 51 Existing conditions at Judd St. and Lehigh Ave. Right: Fig. 52 Section of Proposed Pocket Park at Judd St. and Lehigh Ave.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

PROPOSED PLANTING

SIDEWALK

PROPOSED PLANTING

OVERFLOW

RAINWATER

RESIDENTIAL ZONE

FLOW-THROUGH PLANTING

VISION PLAN: POCKET PARKS

PROPOSED TREES

PLAY SURFACE

GREEN WALL

PLAYGROUND/ WATER DETENTION AREA

DECK

LAWN

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

PLAZAS While new open space and parks provide a respite from the city as well as environmental enhancement, plazas provide a more socially oriented public space. Plazas are places for the community to come together, whether through casual use or for more formal events, such as farmers markets. Plazas strengthen community connections by providing a place to host events and services. Plazas have also increasingly been utilized to humanize formerly auto-oriented urban spaces and have been linked to broader revitalizations, particularly in commercial areas.

Fig. 53 Bradley Ave. Plaza. Bradley Plaza is an example of how redundant infrastructure can be repurposed as community space.

VISION PLAN: PLAZAS

A strategy for creating plazas is to close a portion of a street or a parking lot to vehicular traffic. These types of spaces have been embraced by the Department of Transportation (DOT), who has inaugurated a program called People St. to develop plazas around the city. A fundamental part of this program are surface treatments, which are applied to the street surface, while large planters and other amenities can be incorporated to define the perimeter. If a plaza proves to be successful for over a year, installation of more permanent materials is allowed to occur. A plaza requires a commitment from a community partner to operate the plaza, provide movable furniture, coordinate public programs, and conduct ongoing neighborhood outreach. Pedestrian plazas must also remain publicly accessible at all times. Providing expanded public space can increase safety for people who walk, bike and take transit, encourage increased levels of walking and bicycling and support economic vitality. New local gathering spaces can promote a greater sense of community and social cohesion. Plazas can become venues for events and celebrations. All these activities have proven beneficial in supporting local businesses as more pedestrians come to spend time in neighborhoods. Parking lots constitute a major opportunity to create plazas in Pacoima. Much of the major retail in the area is in strip mall shopping centers. These are busy hubs of activity that many residents use. Converting a portion of these spaces into a plaza would be a way of making new public space in a highly trafficked area.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

PLAZAS GUIDELINES: 01

Include a community design element Remain publicly accessible at all that represents the community that times. surrounds the plaza.

Provide bicycle parking.

All spaces should be ADA-Compliant to standard for grading and surface materials.

Where to apply:

VISION PLAN: PLAZAS

Allow for public gatherings space, events, and community celebrations.

Plazas should allow for visibility into and throughout the space, promoting a sense of openness and safety.

07 Refer to City of Los Angeles: Department of Transportation People St. Program for design guidance and approval procedures.

• • •

Underused streets or redundant streets Oversized parking lots On commercial thoroughfares between commercial or retail buildings

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Potential Plaza Locations Plaza Pacoima [A, B] Plaza Pacoima is a large shopping center that houses a Costco, Best Buy, Lowes, as well as other smaller restaurants. It is adjacent to two important corridors, Paxton St. and San Fernando Rd. It is a typical â&#x20AC;&#x153;big boxâ&#x20AC;? development with a large amount of surface parking. Its stores make it an important destination both within Pacoima and throughout the San Fernando Valley. A Community Benefits Agreement was established when the development was being planned, which stipulates that a certain percentage of employees must be area residents, making it an important employment center within the community. Fig. 54 Plaza Pacoima. The area around the fountain in Plaza Pacoima can be reproposed from parking to a plaza, anchoring the center with a community gathering space.

The parking lot of Plaza Pacoima is an opportunity to retrofit a space exclusively for cars into a community space. This would adapt Plaza Pacoima to its surrounding neighborhood, rather than just being a regional draw for shoppers. A plaza would better accommodate pedestrians and would remove impermeable surface creating an opportunity for water infiltration. Pacoima Plaza of the Stars [C] Pacoima Plaza of the Stars is a major retail destination for the northern section of Pacoima. The plaza currently has a big box layout with a grocery store anchoring many other smaller retail outlets, including a bank and othe fast food restaurants. The parking lot is currently chaotic with many cars jockeying for parking spaces and pedestrians passing through in order to access the stores. The level of activity in the plaza is enough to attract vendors selling fruit, tamales and other goods. Similar to Plaza Pacoima, the parking lot of Pacoima Plaza of the Stars should be retrofitted to better accommodate pedestrians and to create a public space. Pacoima Plaza of the Starts was cited as a community hub during outreach with many residents suggesting that more public uses take place there such as a farmers market. This would also help the many patrons who access the shopping center on foot or by transit. Removing pavement in the parking lot would help with rainwater infiltration. Pacoima Plaza of the Stars is in a high poverty area with a high rate of overcrowding, there is a high population of youth, and 16% of households in this census tract and adjacent census tracts do not own cars. San Fernando Gardens [D] San Fernando Gardens is the largest public housing facility in the Valley. No centralized public spaces exist as part of the complex. In January of 2015 a new public plaza was created on Bradley Avenue adjacent to San Fernando Gardens. This plaza was one of the first projects approved by the Los Angeles Department of Transportation People St. program and was built by Pacoima Beautiful. The plaza is officially considered temporary and is designed to be easily vacated. However, it can eventually become a permanent and undergo more substantial construction. The census tract containing Bradley Plaza and San Fernando Gardens is one of the poorest in the project area. Over 30% of the population is under 18. Over 16% of households do not own a vehicle and has above average overcrowding.

VISION PLAN: PLAZAS

FO OT HI LL VD BL

PACOIMA

X PA

210

BR AD VE YA

5 EN

GL OA B KS D LV

118

La Milla

WHITEMAN AIRPORT

B YS

D LV N SA

N VA

FE AN DO

HA DD

R ER

ON E AV

UR LA EL

LEGEND

N CA N YO VD BL

EN E AT ST Y FW

Proposed Plaza

Existing Parks

Site Boundary

Proposed Plazas A

Pacoima Plaza(North)

Pacoima Plaza (South)

Pacoima Plaza of the Stars

Carl Place/San Fernando Gardens

A BR

Fig. 55 Potential Plaza Locations

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

GREEN ALLEYS Alleys exist in several residential pockets of Pacoima. These are narrow streets running behind houses which often give vehicular access to driveways or garages. Many of the alleys in Pacoima are in disrepair; frequently being targeted for illegal dumping which blocks the use of the alley by vehicles. They are also used for drug dealing and other illegal activities. Because of this, in some cases alleys in Pacoima have been blocked off by gates. Green alleys are a way to decrease the blight in these spaces and also create opportunities for Best Management Practices (BMP).

Fig. 56 Existing Alley at Bradley Ave. Plaza

VISION PLAN: GREEN ALLEYS

A Green Alley may be defined as a narrow, low-volume traffic street that is designed to focus on livability, instead of parking and traffic. Typically, this means creating a street primarily for pedestrians and bicyclists as well as space for social uses. Automobiles and utility vehicles are typically still allowed access, but with reduced speeds. Green alleys also serve as an opportunity to implement BMPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Special paving along alleys can allow for groundwater infiltration while also softening and beautifying the urban environment. Alleys are a potential open space resource in dense urban neighborhoods that can provide a safe, calm, and comfortable refuge for pedestrians and bicyclists. Green Alleys transform traditional alleys into shared spaces that prioritize pedestrians and produce open space, often by claiming street space to create enhanced and active places for landscaping and seating. Green Alleys should include special paving, traffic calming, lighting, seating, greening, and other elements to indicate that vehicles are visitors and pedestrians have primacy across the full width of the right-of-way. Green Alleys may be installed by community groups, private developers, or the City. Because of their complex nature, they are not typically installed by individual property owners, tenants, or businesses. Green Alleys are large and complex projects and typically require the support of multiple property owners and tenants to design, finance, and construct. Once completed, the maintenance and liability of the improvement is typically taken over by a non-City entity.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

GREEN ALLEYS GUIDELINES: 01 Incorporate fire vehicle access.

02 and

emergency

Must maintain vehicular driveway access.

All circulation and spaces should be ADA-Compliant regarding maximum grades and surface materials.

Above-ground utilities.

Where to apply:

and

sub-surface

VISION PLAN: GREEN ALLEYS

Incorporate traffic calming measures.

Include stormwater infiltration and drainage into design.

07 Provide site amenities such as seating, bike parking, art, and landscaping that promotes neighborhood identity.

• • •

Underused streets or redundant streets Underused alleys connecting residential neighborhoods to community assets such as schools On the commercial thoroughfare between commercial or retail buildings

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Potential Green Alley Locations Alley Network between Norris Street and Sutter Street Adjacent to Van Nuys [a] One of the largest concentrations of alleys exists along Van Nuys Boulevard between Norris and Sutter Street. This is primarily a single-family home area; however, adjacent to Van Nuys, the alleys interface with commercial business. Currently, the alleys in this area attract illegal dumping which in some cases can be so severe that it blocks access. Crime is also common in the alleys and the homeless frequently use them. The negative activity occurring in the alley was cited during outreach. The alleys have the potential to be retrofitted in order to achieve multiple benefits. These include stormwater remediation as well as aesthetic and mobility improvements. Where the alleys interface with commercial activity, economic activity could be expanded into the alley.

LEGEND

The neighborhood around the alley network is a high poverty area. Over 16% of households do not own cars and there is a high youth population.

Site Boundary Existing Parks Proposed Green Alley

Proposed Green Alleys A

Between Norris Ave + Sutter Ave, Adjacent to Van Nuys BlvD

VISION PLAN: GREEN ALLEYS

FO OT HI LL VD BL

PACOIMA EN GL B KS OA D LV

210

BR AD VE YA

A 118

X PA

La Milla

WHITEMAN AIRPORT

N VA

B YS

D LV

N SA

R ER

FE AN DO RD

GO LD EN E AT ST

Y FW

ON E AV

LA EL N CA N YO VD BL A BR

Fig. 57 Potential Green Alley Locations

Top: Fig. 58 Existing Alley at Bradley Ave. Plaza Right: Fig. 59 Proposed Green Alley at Bradley Ave. Plaza

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

VISION PLAN: GREEN ALLEYS

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Top: Fig. 60 Existing Alley at Bradley Ave. Plaza

PROPOSED GREEN WALL

Right: Fig. 61 Green Alley section at Bradley Ave. Plaza

TIE INTO CITY STORMWATER SYSTEM SIDEWALK

RESIDENTIAL ZONE

BICYCLE LANE

PERMEABLE PAVING FOR INFILTRATION

PROPOSED GREEN ALLEY

ASPHALT

VISION PLAN: GREEN ALLEYS

PROPOSED STREET FURNITURE, TYP.

BRADLEY AVE PLACITA FEATURES: TREES, FITNESS EQUIPMENT, BIKES RACKS

OVERFLOW

UNDERGROUND CISTERN 12,000 GAL MIN. WITH FILTER, PUMP AND DRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEM FOR ADJACENT LANDSCAPING

EXISTING PEOPLE STREET

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

PARKLETS A Parklet is an expansion of the sidewalk into one or more street parking spaces. Parklets are intended to be an aesthetic enhancement to the streetscape, providing an low cost to the need for increased public space. They can provide amenities such as seating, greening, bike parking, and art. While parklets are funded and maintained by neighboring businesses, residents, and community organizations, they are accessible to all.

Fig. 62 Potential Parklet spaces on Van Nuys Blvd.

VISION PLAN: PARKLETS

The goal of Parklets is to convert small areas of street space into people space. Parklets can introduce new elements such as creative seating options, vegetation, and bicycle parking into the streetscape. Providing these human-scaled spaces can increase safety for people who walk and take transit, encourage increased levels of walking and bicycling, and support economic vitality. New local gathering spaces can foster a greater sense of community and social cohesion. Parklets can also become a centerpiece of neighborhoods, providing a venue for friendly interactions and enjoyment of the life of the street. The activities mentioned above have shown to support local businesses as more pedestrians come to and spend time in the neighborhoods. Parklets are administered by the Los Angeles Department of Transportation People St. Program. Currently, their guidelines preclude parklets from being constructed on busy and heavily trafficked streets. Since the main commercial corridors in Pacoima (and most of Los Angeles) that are best suited for parklets are all heavily trafficked streets, it is very difficult to build one of these facilities in the area. For this reason, parklets should be altered to go on these types of streets or the program rules should be changed so that they can be built in Pacoima. Parklets would enhance Pacoima and other communities by adding beauty and whimsy to the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s streets. They reflect the diversity and creativity of the people and organizations that sponsor and design them and reflect the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to encourage walking and biking, creating great streets and improving our communities.

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

PARKLETS GUIDELINES: 01

The space should be designed to encourage pedestrian activity.

Promote public communication throughout the process of design, funding and use and maintenance of the site.

Refer to Los Angeles County Master Plan: Landscaping Guidelines and Plan Palettes for specific guidance.

All circulation and spaces should be ADA-Compliant regarding maximum grades and surface materials.

Where to apply:

VISION PLAN: PARKLETS

Design should attract attention to the business and provide additional seating that can be used by adjacent commercial, and retail and restaurants customers and passersby’s.

Provide site amenities such as seating, bike parking, art, and landscaping that promote neighborhood identity.

07 Refer to City of Los Angeles: Department of Transportation People St. Program for design guidance and approval procedures.

• • •

Areas that would serve to connect existing completed segments of bike path Connections to major destinations, other bike paths, and public connections Portions of the right of way that have been encroached on by other uses

PACOIMA URBAN GREENING VISION PLAN

Potential Parklet Locations Paxton Street [a, b, c] Parklets along Paxton are most appropriate at the intersections of major streets such as Laurel Canyon, San Fernando Road, and Glenoaks Boulevard. These areas are where most commercial businesses and pedestrian activity are located. Parklets are a way to pedestrianize what is primarily and auto-oriented street. Laurel Canyon Boulevard [D, E, F] Similarly, parklets on Laurel Canyon are most appropriate at major intersections such as Paxton, Van Nuys, Terra Bella, and Osborne. This is where most of the commercial activity is centered. Laurel Canyon is home to many cultural, religious, and educational institutions. Many of these facilities are currently inward facing and parklets would be a way to open these places up to the street and could even accommodate events or cultural celebrations. Van Nuys Boulevard [d, g, h, i,j] Parklets on Van Nuys Boulevard would be most appropriate between Glenoaks and Laurel Canyon Boulevards. This is where most commercial businesses and services are located along the Streets. Parklets are a strategy for pedestrianizing the street and could stimulate economic activity at businesses.

LEGEND Site Boundary Existing Parks Proposed Parklet

Proposed Parklets A

Paxton St + Laurel Canyon Blvd

Paxton St + San Fernando Rd

Paxton St + Glenoaks Blvd

Laurel Canyon Blvd + Van Nuys Blvd

Laurel Canyon Blvd + Terra Bella St

Laurel Canyon Blvd + Osborne St

Rincon Ave Nuys Blvd

Van Nuys Blvd + Haddon Ave

Pinney St + Kewen Ave

Van Nuys Blvd + Norris Ave

VISION PLAN: PARKLETS

FO OT HI LL VD BL

PACOIMA

C TO

X PA

210

BR AD VE YA

J 5 EN

GL OA B KS D LV

118

A I

WHITEMAN AIRPORT

D LV N SA

N VA

B YS NU

La Milla

FE AN DO

E AB

ON E AV

UR LA EL N CA N YO VD BL

LD EN E AT ST Y FW

N OR

A BR

Fig. 63 Potential Parklet Locations

NEXT STEPS

The projects listed in this document represent a major step in improving the physical and natural environment of Pacoima. Some of these projects may have a higher priority than others, while some may be better suited to current funding that is available. The documentation of community feedback and sentiment may inspire additional projects not contained within the Urban Greening Plan. It is anticipated that these projects will be built individually and over a long period of time. The content of the Urban Greening Plan is meant as a list of potential projects with useful background information. This information on community outreach, urban design principals, and water infiltration are an excellent way to vet the projects for potential funding opportunities. However, in order to construct these projects, further information may have to be gathered and additional community outreach may also be necessary to further refine each project. Collaboration should also be undertaken with the relevant City departments such as the Bureau of Sanitation, Department of Transportation, and the City Council Offices. Although carrying out these projects may seem daunting, precedents exist around Los Angeles and the United States. Organizations that have conducted similar projects should be seen as resources to share best practices. Each of these projects demonstrates remarkable potential to greatly improve quality of life for residents and the natural environment. Once implemented, these projects will be a step towards filling the deficit of open space and pedestrian and cycling connections in Pacoima. Regardless of how the information provided in this plan is used, Pacoima Beautiful will treat the Urban Greening Plan as a living document that will actively chart the future of the organization and Pacoima as a whole.

RESOURCES

Colvin, R. (1991, July 15). A concrete plan for nature's way: Pacoima wash: A $6-million project to begin next month will transform the last unimproved section of the stream bed to an efficient, if lifeless, flood control channel. Los Angeles Times. Retrieved September 9, 2014, from http://articles.latimes. com/1991-07-15/local/me-1767_1_flood-control/2 Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. (2007). L.A. HealthDataNow! Retrieved on June 16, 2014 from https://dqs.publichealth.lacounty.gov/ U.S. Census Bureau. (2008-2012). ZCTA5 91331, DP03 Selected Economic Characteristics [Data]. 2008-2012 American community survey 5-year estimates. Retrieved from http://factfinder2.census.gov U.S. Census Bureau. (2008-2012). Los Angeles County, California, DP03 Selected Economic Characteristics [Data]. 2008-2012 American community survey 5-year estimates. Retrieved from http://factfinder2.census.gov U.S. Census Bureau. (2008-2012). California, DP04 Selected Housing Characteristics [Data]. 2008-2012 American community survey 5-year estimates. Retrieved from http://factfinder2. census.gov U.S. Census Bureau. (2008-2012). Los Angeles County, California, DP04 Selected Housing Characteristics [Data]. 20082012 American community survey 5-year estimates. Retrieved from http://factfinder2.census.gov U.S. Census Bureau. (2008-2012). ZCTA5 91331, DP04 Selected Housing Characteristics [Data]. 2008-2012 American community survey 5-year estimates. Retrieved from http:// factfinder2.census.gov U.S. Census Bureau. (2008-2012). ZCTA5 91331, DP05 Demographic and Housing [Data]. 2008-2012 American community survey 5-year estimates. Retrieved from http:// factfinder2.census.gov U.S. Census Bureau. (2008-2012). ZCTA5 91331, S1701 Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months [Data]. 2008-2012 American community survey 5-year estimates. Retrieved from http:// factfinder2.census.gov Williams, T. (1994, April 10). Poverty, pride--and power : In line for federal help, Pacoima hides problems below neat surface. Los Angeles Times. Retrieved from http://articles.latimes. com/1994-04-10/local/me-44400_1_pacoima-elementary

APPENDICES

Contents Pacoima Beautiful Hydrology and water quality studY Focus Group Feedback Maps