LA Breaks Ground on First Ever Self-sustaining Park in Tarzana

On August 1, 2024, Los Angeles officials and community leaders gathered to mark the beginning of the Caballero Creek Park project, an initiative aimed at advancing sustainable urban development. This 1.5-acre site in Tarzana, previously underutilized, is set to become the city’s first self-sustaining park, representing a new standard for urban green spaces.

Location and Environmental Focus

The park is strategically located at the intersection of the Los Angeles River and Caballero Creek, on Lindley Avenue, just south of Victory Boulevard. The development will feature a wetlands area designed to support crucial habitat and watershed protection. Innovative environmental technologies will be a key focus, making the park a model for future urban green spaces.

Innovative Water and Energy Solutions

One of the park’s standout features is its ability to capture and treat stormwater onsite, powered entirely by solar energy. This treated water will irrigate the park, contributing to its goal of net-zero carbon emissions. The project reflects Los Angeles' broader commitment to sustainability and resilience in the face of climate change.

Community and Educational Impact

The park is designed to offer more than just ecological benefits. It will serve as an educational resource, particularly for students from nearby Reseda High School. An outdoor classroom will be established to teach about water reclamation and conservation, important topics in light of ongoing environmental challenges. Local leaders like Tarzana Neighborhood Council President Leonard Shaffer emphasize the park’s role in educating the community about sustainable practices.

Additional Features and Connectivity

In addition to its environmental and educational components, the park will include an outdoor fitness center. It will also be connected to the L.A. River Bike Path, providing links to other recreational areas such as Reseda Park and the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area.

Funding and Partnerships

The project is estimated to cost $5.45 million, with funding sourced from a combination of state, city, and county resources. The state will contribute nearly $4.4 million, the city $750,000, and the county $300,000. Key partners in this initiative include the Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy. Joseph T. Edmiston, the Conservancy’s executive director, has praised the park as a benchmark for future urban parks.