August 6, 2024

Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a plan for up to $4.1 million in interim improvements to the future home of a 46-acre wetlands park in the San Fernando Valley community of Sun Valley, Board Chair Lindsey P. Horvath announced this week.

While the County and City of Los Angeles continue to seek more than $212 million to complete the transformative Rory M. Shaw Wetlands Park Project, the County will upgrade landscaping and irrigation along the site’s perimeter and install new 8-foot-tall tubular steel fencing. These and other enhancements stemming from community feedback are designed to increase the property’s aesthetic appeal for neighboring property owners while increasing site security and deterring behaviors like illegal dumping.

“Los Angeles County and our City partners are committed to transforming the site of the Rory Shaw Wetlands Park into a vibrant and beautiful asset for the Sun Valley community,” said Chair Horvath. “As we secure the funding for this important project, LA County is committed to being a good neighbor to the surrounding community. These upgrades are a necessary enhancement to beautify the site perimeter and increase security as we advance plans for the long-term future of Rory Shaw.”

Interim Improvements include:

• New Fencing: Upgrade existing site perimeter fence to install 4,400 LF of robust 8-foot-tall decorative tubular steel fence, designed for enhanced security and aesthetic appeal.
• Native Plants: Creation of a buffer along the site perimeter using California-native shrubs and trees, fostering a natural and inviting environment.
• 24” Mature Box Trees: Planting up to 90 trees to improve the landscape and provide shade.
• Berm Planting: Landscaping the berm along Fair Ave with native shrubs for added aesthetic value.
• Drip Irrigation System: Efficient watering system to maintain the health of the plants.
• Landscaping Management: Regular watering and maintenance to ensure the health and vibrancy of the new greenery.

Work to control erosion and dust will start immediately to bring relief to residents until the new fencing and landscaping is installed. Weekly checks will ensure the plan is properly followed. Landscaping and fencing installation is anticipated to start in March 2025 and take three to four months to complete.

The future Rory M. Shaw Wetlands Park Project will convert a 46-acre former construction debris landfill into a world-class public park. This collaborative effort between the County of Los Angeles, City of Los Angeles, and Sun Valley Watershed Stakeholders Group is designed to mitigate flood risk and reduce stormwater pollution while increasing water conservation, recreational opportunities, and wildlife habitat.

For more information and project updates, please visit lacounty.pw/RoryShaw.

Fact sheet>

###