[Mike Gatto] Sunnynook Park Highlights Cooperation in Tough Economic Times

Recently, I participated in an event that exemplified the great things we can accomplish through federal, state, local and community cooperation. This project—the groundbreaking for a new park—demonstrated when government and communities work together, we can preserve our environment and make our neighborhoods better.

On July 25th, I joined with Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District Commander Col. Mark Toy; Los Angeles City Council members Tom LaBonge, Eric Garcetti and Ed Reyes; representatives of the Bureau of Engineering; the Dept. of Recreation and Parks, and numerous community organizations to break ground on Sunnynook Park.  Senior citizens from the Griffith Park Community Center and cyclists on the Los Angeles River Bicycle Path will find the park particularly well situated as each will have a new place to rest and relax along the riverfront.

Sunnynook Park will be a 3.4 acre park located along the bike path on the narrow stretch of land between the Los Angeles River and Interstate 5. The park is located on land owned by the Los Angeles Dept. of Water and Power and CalTrans, using funds from the Santa Monica Mountain Conservancy and the State Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation (EEM) Grant Program.  Plans have taken a cooperative effort by many government agencies as well as community organizations such as Friends of the Los Angeles River (FoLAR).As part of the Los Angeles River Master Plan, Sunnynook will not only create more green space within our community but will also improve accessibility to the river, expand adjacent native habitat by removing invasive—exotic species and planting additional native plants—and provide river-related environmental education.

Sunnynook Park demonstrates that even in tough economic times, cooperation facilitates progress.  I invite you to share with me additional ideas of how State government can work with you to serve and improve our communities.

Read this article and more at the Los Feliz Ledger by clicking HERE

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Mike Gatto is the Chairman of the Appropriations Committee of the California State Assembly.  He represents the cities of Burbank, Glendale, and the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Los Feliz and Silver Lake.  E-mail Mike at: assemblymember.gatto@assembly.ca.gov, or call (818) 558-3043.

Website of Assemblyman Mike Gatto: www.asm.ca.gov/gatto