Proposition O My God...Echo Park Lake Closed for Two Years

Don't panic. It's for a good cause. Not convinced? Angelenos voted for Proposition O back in 2004.  A lot has happened since then in our neighborhoods, our families, and of course the famous "Economy". Today we are shocked to discover that the $500 million bond measure approved for water quality improvement is actually being implemented. In 2006, Echo Park Lake was identified as an "impaired water body" and selected as one of several projects earmarked for rehabilitation dollars by the City of Los Angeles.

Today, with the project's momentum at full pace and community resources stretched thin, it is hard to know whether to react with delight or distress. Despite claims and concerted efforts by the City of Los Angeles that they have notified, mailed, posted, held meetings and extended outreach, I have a sneaking suspicion that the majority of Echo Park residents will be surprised when our beloved park is completely closed off for a two-year rehabilitation project.



The real improvements to the lake will be below surface to make water drainage and storage safer and cleaner. In that respect, it will be hard to visually see $65 million worth of the improvements. The Draft EIR (Environmental Impact Report) can be reviewed on line.

I am guilty of taking the lake and the views for granted. Our diverse neighbors stroll, picnic and run around the lake. I met one gentleman who had been fishing in Echo Park Lake since he was seven years old. The grass, the geese, the trees, the fountain, and the downtown views all make Echo Park an aesthetic community treasure. How many of us stop to think of the lake as a water source?

In 1860 Echo Park lake was first designed as a drinking water reservoir. Today it serves as a runoff water (flood control) detention basin. The water now contains unacceptable levels of "algae, ammonia, copper, eutrophic (low oxygen) conditions, lead, odor, PCBs, pH, and trash" according to the Prop O website. The lake will be drained and dredged in order to remove contaminates and to clean and replace the lake liner.

Keeping the lake level consistent during dryer months has been traditionally accomplished by replenishing the lake with potable water. One of the project's improvements will be the channeling of storm water back into the lake, saving water on two fronts.


My personal concern is for the upkeep of the lake once the project is completed. I do not want to think that after two years of patience and construction, the lake could potentially fall again into disrepair. According to Michelle Vargas of LA City Department of Public Works, maintenance of Echo Park Lake is not provided for with Prop O funds and will be the responsibility of the Parks and Recreation Department.

In addition to being a hub for human recreation, Echo Park provides habitat for waterfowl, fish, turtles, and other wildlife.  Concern for the safety of the animals has been addressed in the form of temporary ponds.  Four ponds will be maintained to allow some access for migratory birds during construction. Most existing trees will remain in place and additional trees and foliage will be strategically planted. Perhaps the most charming improvement will be the restoration of the lotus beds.

No one looks forward to Echo Park Lake being fenced off for two years, especially since the greatest benefit will be toward water quality, a factor easily overlooked when enjoying recreation. We will have to keep our eyes toward the future when the beauty of the park will also be supported by clean, efficient water use.