Waterfront development is ‘critical issue’ for city’s success
By Greg Fuderer LONG BEACH, Calif. — Nearly 50 residents, group representatives and elected officials spoke at a public meeting on Oct. 21 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, to address a proposed waterfront redevelopment at the Port of Los Angeles. Most of the speakers favored the effort and encouraged the responsible agencies to expedite the work. “Time to move forward” and “Get going now” were themes at the meeting that sought public input to identify and address the potential environmental impacts of the proposed project and six alternatives that include combinations and modifications of project elements. The plan proposes to develop a waterfront promenade, three new harbors, commercial redevelopment and new development, and public open spaces that include plazas, parks and landscape areas.
The proposed promenade would be eight miles long and extend along the entire project from the Vincent Thomas Bridge to Inner Cabrillo Beach. Proposed harbor cuts would support tugboats and tall ships, youth program sailing vessels and public vessels.
The plan also includes open spaces and parks with walkways, a public plaza, various water features, a central park with amphitheater, along with emphasis on consumer access by foot or bicycle. The plan’s objectives include: An increase to public access at the waterfront; enhanced community- and visitor-serving commercial opportunities along the waterfront; meet growing cruise industry demands; improve transportation in and around the San Pedro Waterfront; and to grow in a sustainable manner. “Los Angeles deserves to be in the same company as those with promenades,” said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Janice Hahn, after naming several cities that have benefited from waterfront tourism and business districts. Tourism is a major economic asset in the area and the addition of waterfront attractions would add millions of dollars to the city’s general fund, according to Hahn. “Riverfront development is a critical issue for the city’s success,” she said. “Let’s build it so we have a win-win for everyone.” Los Angeles District Commander Col. Thomas H. Magness is a resident of neighboring San Pedro and his home on Fort MacArthur overlooks the port. He told attendees he understood their concerns and wants to create a community beneficial not only for his two daughters, but for their children as well. “We live in a great community,” he said, “and this is a great opportunity we have in front of us.” Following an opening presentation by the Port that described the proposed plan and several alternatives, attendees were given the opportunity to provide public comment. Those who supported the project spoke of “increased opportunity for employment,” not only during construction, but long term in the businesses that would result. They commented on the “social and economic benefits” the proposed activities would provide for adults and youth in a safe, healthy and accessible environment. Attendees also expressed concerns about possible negative effects of the proposed plan, including the environmental impacts increased cruise ship activity would have on air quality, traffic, water-related recreation and aesthetics. The environmental review will address the potential environmental impacts of the proposed project and alternatives on various resources and issues of concern, including air quality, geology, noise, transportation, water quality, biological resources, recreation and aesthetics. The public’s input will help the agencies develop approaches to avoid or mitigate those impacts, according to the Port’s summary document. The Port and the Corps will accept comments until Dec. 8 and then incorporate that input in preparing the environmental impact documents. For more information about the proposed project, readers can visit the Port of Los Angeles Web site at http://www.portoflosangeles.org/EIR/SPWaterfront/DEIR/deir_spwaterfront.asp. | 
