A PLETHORA OF IMPROVEMENTS

Norman O. Houston Park Improvement Project

Los Angeles - A neighborhood park with a breath-taking view, Norman O. Houston Park has always been a special place for residents to come together for play, recreation and relaxation. Now, after the dedication of a plethora of improvements, Houston Park will provide even more recreational opportunities for the L.A. community.

The Department of Recreation and Parks, along with Councilmember Bernard C. Parks (8th District) and the Houston Family celebrated the Norman O. Houston Park Improvement Project Dedication on Friday, March 4, 2011.

The improvement project included the installation of a half-mile natural surface jogging path, outdoor fitness equipment, benches, picnic tables, solar security lighting, playground equipment, smart irrigation system and new landscaping, including 25 large canopy trees.

RAP also unveiled and dedicated a new commemorative plaque, recognizing the amazing man the park is named after. Norman Olivier Houston, a pioneer of the Black Industry, was the co-founder of the largest black-owned insurance company west of the Mississippi, the first Black American elected to the California State Athletic Association, co-founder and chairman of the Board of Broadway Federal Savings and Loan Association (which in 1980 was the largest black-owned savings and loan in California) and he also served as President of the Los Angeles branch of the NAACP and was a member of Los Angeles' first Human Rights Commission. Mr. Houston was an incredible individual and RAP is honored to have a park in his memory that will provide residents with a positive place to come together and enjoy the numerous park amenities.

Norman O. Houston Park is located at 4800 South La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles 90008. The park is open everyday from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.

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