CELEBRATING HISTORICAL IMPROVEMENTS
Dedication Ceremony at MacArthur Park

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks celebrated the completion of the MacArthur Park Improvement Project on Saturday, September 12, 2009. Councilmember Ed P. Reyes and hundreds of local community members were on hand to cut the ceremonial ribbon and join in the festivities.

The MacArthur Park Improvement Project transformed a dusty and flat dirt field into a green meadow that features a 37,000-square-foot synthetic turf, play area, picnic tables and outdoor exercise equipment. New lighting, an irrigation system and landscaping were also part of the improvements.

The new synthetic multipurpose field will provide a much needed soccer space for local youth and adults. Over 10,000 youth participate in soccer leagues at the park yearly.

The $2.4 million project was built by Park West Landscape, Inc. Public Works' Bureau of Engineering designed and managed the project. Funding was provided by Propositions K (specified) and the Capital Improvement Expenditure Program.

Dedicated and opened in 1887, MacArthur Park is one of the oldest and most popular parks run by the Department. Located just west of the Downtown Los Angeles, MacArthur Park lies in one of the most densely-populated areas in the City. The 40-acre parkland provides recreational opportunities to hundreds of local residents and visitors daily.

MacArthur Park is located at 2230 West 6th Street 90057. For more information on this project of the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694