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Global infrastructure firm AECOM has released its LA River Gateway revitalization proposal, an integrated framework that, if fully implemented, can create benefits for communities along the river’s banks while helping generate new economic prospects.

The project's proposal involves a four-mile stretch between the Elysian Hills, located near Dodger Stadium, south of the 10 Freeway, below 7^th Street, and reaching to the Arts District. The area presents a great opportunity to create open spaces and parks. 

The project defines an approach that helps deliver catalytic projects that align with existing plans and goals, while focusing on responsible and practical strategies for achieving future benefits. 

Kelli Bernard, chief executive of AECOM’s LA Metro region, said:

“The revitalization of the LA River is one of the most transformational opportunities for Los Angeles in generations and we are deeply committed to designing and building our hometown’s infrastructure to better serve our communities. To create the LA River Gateway framework, our team of urban designers, planners, economists, civil engineers, and water and transportation infrastructure experts collaborated over the last year, analyzing and developing an integrated approach for the revitalization of the LA River in order to enhance the quality of life for communities along its banks while increasing economic opportunities.”

There were two other plans to revitalize the L.A riverfront: the Los Angeles River Revitalization Master Plan and the Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration Project, prepared toguether with the US Army Corps of Engineers. Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration Project was valued at certain US$1.4 billion.

Stephen Engblom, senior vice president and global director of AECOM’s Global Cities Initiative, said:

“Rivers are no longer the industrial corridors of yesterday, they are being re-evaluated as the new hearts of cities, as places where neighborhoods come together across the socio-economic spectrum; where ecologies are restored; where modern and clean transportation replaces the dirty, the inefficient and the out of date. Rivers are where businesses are re-investing in new jobs and new housing. The LA River has the potential for visitors and residents to come together and celebrate life in new ways.”

The potential benefits of the project include greater public access to the LA River and open space, improved ecological sustainability, increases in mobility and neighborhood livability, new affordable housing options and job centers. These focus areas were adopted and taken directly from the City of LA’s Sustainability pLAn, in conjunction with land use and community plans, keeping the LA Gateway framework aligned with existing and approved plans.