October 1st, 2025

LOS ANGELES, CA – Yesterday, Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath announced a motion to establish Urban Natureways, a new parkland classification that will transform underutilized public infrastructure—such as flood control channels and utility corridors—into multifunctional greenways. This is the first initiative of its kind in Los Angeles County, formally recognizing Urban Natureways in the County’s General Plan and setting a coordinated path for implementation.

“Community-based organizations have long led the way, recognizing possibility in often-overlooked infrastructure like our flood control channels,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “Through Urban Natureways, LA County is turning that vision into action with a new park classification that opens the door to more green space and stronger community connection. These spaces will not only be built for communities — they’ll be built with them, alongside the organizations that have championed this work for years. Together, we are shaping a future where every neighborhood has access to nature, belonging, and connection.”

The motion emphasizes that for decades, CBOs and nonprofit leaders have reimagined rivers, creeks, and corridors as public greenways, often overcoming regulatory hurdles and fragmented planning. From Compton Creek to the Pacoima Wash, groups such as ActiveSGV, Pacoima Beautiful, Willowbrook Inclusion Network, Conservation Corps Long Beach, and Nature for All have built the foundation for this work. Supervisor Horvath’s initiative formally embeds that community vision into County policy for the first time.

Supervisor Horvath’s motion directs County departments to:

• Amend the General Plan to establish Urban Natureways as a new parkland classification focused on ecological restoration, climate resilience, biodiversity, and equitable access.
• Adopt Compton Creek, Emerald Necklace, Lower LA River, and Pacoima Wash into the County’s Regional Trail Network.
• Designate the Department of Parks and Recreation as the County lead to streamline planning, permitting, and maintenance.
• Develop a Countywide Urban Natureway Marketplace to support small businesses, workforce development, and long-term community stewardship.
• Establish an interagency working group with County departments, Metro, local jurisdictions, and community-based organizations to advance inclusive planning, connectivity, and governance.
• Pursue State, federal, and philanthropic funding, leveraging opportunities such as Proposition 4 to ensure project delivery and long-term operations.

Urban Natureways follow the model of nationally recognized projects like the Atlanta BeltLine, but with a uniquely Los Angeles County vision: reconnecting communities, creating new pathways to green jobs, and embedding biodiversity into the urban fabric.

Within 90 days, the Department of Parks and Recreation will convene key conservancy partners to explore funding opportunities, and the Board will receive a comprehensive progress report in 180 days on implementation, interagency coordination, and next steps to pilot the Urban Natureway Marketplace.

More Information
Read the full motion >
Photos >

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