Explore the Green Places Tools below. Roll over each Tool to see its name and click to pull up details. You can also search by the categories above. Each Tool includes definitions and resources, such as links to case studies, standard plans, funding, and partnership opportunities. Also be sure to look at the detailed resources in Get Funding and Resource Library.
Rain gardens are bowl-shaped areas in a landscape designed to capture and soak in rainwater or slow the rate of runoff and filter pollutants. Special plants are chosen that can have “wet feet” for a few hours. These gardens filter pollutants and help protect against erosion and flooding by reducing the surge of water that rushes to streams during a storm. Lined rain gardens provide filtration and then discharge to the storm drain or other infiltration area while unlined rain gardens provide filtration and infiltration.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based on site conditions.
- Determine size and type of rain garden, planned landscaping, and irrigation needs.
- Create plans, if needed, and obtain permits, if needed.
- Select plants based on anticipated rainfall and drainage area feeding the rain garden planter, depending on topography of rain garden, some submersion of plants may occur, plant should be selected for tolerance to anticipated submersion
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install and plant.
GOOD TO KNOW
- No regular maintenance is required other than routine landscape maintenance.
- For lined rain gardens, water should drain in less than three days to prevent mosquitoes.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts, the Council for Watershed Health , The Bay Foundation, the California Urban Water Conservation Council, and the California Stormwater Quality Association.
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners that may provide funding for installation and proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
- TreePeople
- California Native Plant Society
- Theodore Payne Foundation
- Green Gardens Group
- North East Trees
- Los Angeles Beautification Team
- California Urban Water Conservation Council
RESOURCES
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development Standards Manual
- City of Los Angeles Stormwater Program, Rain Gardens
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Bioretention (Rain Gardens)
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Green Infrastructure (Rain Gardens)
- The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, Rain Garden
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development Standards Manual (Page 3-3)
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Management Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual (Pages 3 and 15)
- The Bay Foundation, Rainwater Harvesting and Rain Gardens
- Center for Urban Waters, Rain Garden
- Gray Water Action
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Graywater Reuse
- Sanitary Sewer Mining for Wastewater Reuse
- Storm Drain Mining for Stormwater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Capture & Use - Cistern
- Capture & Use - Rain Barrel
- Site Planning & Design
Light fixtures that only turn on when the movement of people is detected, thereby saving energy.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Motion-sensor lighting provides the right amount of light where and when needed.
- They can be utilized along pathways that do not require continuous illumination due to intermittent pedestrian use.
- Can be incorporated into solar-generated lighting fixtures and should be used with LED lighting.
- Costs are highly variable based on design and scale.
PARTNERSHIPS
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Underpass Activation
Using recycled and reclaimed materials in the construction of physical improvements, and finding ways to reuse existing on-site materials.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Recycling steel saves 75% of the energy that would be used to create steel from raw materials.
- As an alternative to conventional materials, rubberized asphalt concrete, which is made from a blend of recycled tires with asphaltand mixed with aggregate materials, is cost effective, long-lasting, and crack-resistant. California produces more than 40 million waste tires annually, of which approximately 75% are diverted from landfills [CalRecycle.gov].
- There is emerging technology that uses captured greenhouse gases in the manufacture of plastic. See Newlight Technologies for more information.
PARTNERSHIPS
FUNDING SOURCES
RESOURCES
- Metro’s Construction/Demolition Debris Recycling and Reuse Policy
- SITES v2 Rating System for Sustainable Land Design and Development
- EPA Resources for Industrial Materials Recycling
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Green Wall
- Cool Pavement
- Shade
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Live Music / Performance
- Public Art
- Pop-Up Library / Free Little Library
- Pop-Up Retail
- Street Furniture
- Underpass Activation
Canopies, trellises, other shade structures, and landscaping that reduce heat absorption, lower ambient temperatures, and create a more comfortable environment.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Solar radiation can dramatically affect how someone standing, sitting or walking in the sun perceives the outside air temperature. For example, on a summer day with a 90 degree air temperature in the shade, the “real feel” temperature in the sun could be over 110 degrees.
- On a hot day, a section of dark asphalt could reach temperatures of 150 degrees in the direct sun, while the same pavement in shade could be over 50 degrees cooler.
- The utilization of innovative materials and designs should be encouraged. Shade-providing structures can also serve as public art.
- Shade can certainly be provided through trees and landscape. Shade structures are constructed of various materials including canvas, fabric, steel, wood, and glass.
FUNDING SOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Cool Roof
- Recycled Materials
- Solar Amenities
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Blood Drive / Health Screening
- Job Fair
- Farmers Market
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Holiday Event
- Live Music/ Performance
- Charging Station
- Public Art
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
Photovoltaic modules or panels that absorb the sun’s rays as a source of energy. Solar installation systems generate energy that can be used on-site and/or feed into the power grid.
GOOD TO KNOW
- With abundant space open to the sky, park and ride lots provide rich opportunities for solar panel installation.
- Solar panels installed on canopies at surface parking lots provide shade which lowers surface and air temperatures.
- Small-scale uses include solar-powered lighting for functional uses or for artistic purposes. Solar powered lights are an inexpensive solution for illuminating pedestrian pathways.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Repower LA
- LA Department of Water and Power
- Southern California Edison
- Pacific Gas and Electric
- Go Solar California
FUNDING SOURCES
RESOURCES
- Energy Upgrade California
- Solar Technologies Overview
- A Field Guide to Renewable Energy Technologies
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Shade
- Wind Generator
- Charging Station
- Public Art
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Signage/Wayfinding
An electric generator that converts energy from the wind into electrical power.
ACTIONS
- Asses the desired site(s) for suitability. To determine average wind speeds for a location, a monitoring tower with a wind speed monitor, called an anemometer, can be used to measure wind speeds and directions.
- Determine the function of the generator and the goals of the installation. How is the generated power used: is it purely functional (for example, lighting), or can it power a form of kinetic art?
- Research options for type and size of installation.
- Consider an educational component to teach passers-by about alternative energy.
CASE STUDIES
- A French company installed tree-shaped wind turbines on the streets of Paris in March, 2015. Each 36-foot-high “Wind Tree” includes 72 leaf-shaped turbines that generate power in a breeze as faint as 4.4 mph.
- A Low-Impact Transit Station in Austin, Texas incorporates a near-silent wind turbine on top of a 60-foot-tall tower. The station also incorporates solar generation and rainwater capture
PARTNERSHIPS
FUNDING SOURCES
- United States Energy Department
- LA Department of Water and Power rebate program
- Southern California Edison rebate program
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Solar Amenities
- Charging Station
- Public Art
- Signage/Wayfinding
Energy-harvesting paving tiles that, when stepped on, generate electricity that can be used for applications such as lighting or light art. When illuminated with a quick flash of light when stepped on, kinetic pavers provide an enhanced opportunity to encourage public interaction and to showcase emerging technologies.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Kinetic Paving should be placed in areas of high pedestrian traffic, ideally in highly-visible locations that support educational and recreational utilization.
- Maintenance and longevity can be a challenge because the tiles must be very durable, weather resistant and should have high fatigue resistance as well.
- If lighting is incorporated into the paving installation, ensure that there is not a lot of "up-lighting" which can cause light pollution.
- Installations should be accompanied by educational signage that clearly describes the potential of kinetic energy to serve as an alternative energy source.
CASE STUDIES
- 14 tiles installed at a train station plaza in Saint Omer, France power LED bench lighting and USB ports within seating areas, and the amount of generated power is displayed to raise awareness to sustainability issues.
- 176 kinetic paving tiles were laid on a 25-meter stretch of the 2013 Paris Marathon, generating 4.7 kilowatt-hours of energy.
FUNDING SOURCES
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Cool Pavement
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Infiltration - Permeable Pavement
Image Source
A piece of land gardened collectively by a group of participants, producing fruit, vegetables, herbs and/or ornamental plantings for gardeners and their community.
ACTIONS
- Form a volunteer organizing committee or “garden club”.
- Find a suitable site
- Plan your garden using the many resources available (see below).
- Construct garden infrastructure (irrigation, bed walls, fencing, etc.).
- Develop policies and procedures for participation and membership dues.
- Grow your garden!
GOOD TO KNOW
- Setup costs include: irrigation system, soil testing and preparation, plot bed construction, pathway materials, perimeter fencing, benches, toolshed
- Maintenance costs include: water, liability insurance, infrastructure upkeep
PARTNERSHIPS
- Los Angeles Community Garden Council
- Master Gardeners Training Program (University of California Cooperative Extension)
- LA County Department of Public Works School Garden Program
FUNDING SOURCES
- List of grants for community gardens (The Grant Helpers)
- Grow Your Park grant program (National Recreation and Park Association)
- LA County Department of Public Works School Garden Program
RESOURCES
- Building a Community Garden in Your Park
- Community Garden Startup Guide
- Los Angeles Department of Public Health Community Food Production
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Drought-Tolerant Planting
- Green Alley
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Graywater Reuse
- Water-Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Water-Efficient Irrigation
- Within a walking distance from users.
- Sunny for at least 6-8 hours each day.
- Relatively flat.
- Served by existing water services.
- Preferably unpaved with good quality soils.
- Form necessary agreements with the relevant agency.
Reflective pavement – typically composed of modified asphalt, light-colored concrete, or a light-colored coating -- that reduces the amount of heat absorbed into the pavement, lowering surface and ambient air temperatures.
GOOD TO KNOW
- White cement concrete can have a solar reflectance of up to 15x that of asphalt.
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Typical treatments include:
- asphalt or concrete with light-colored aggregate.
- white-cement concrete.
- reflective coatings, slurries, or overlays on top of asphalt.
- Reflective pavements are typically about 3 times the cost of regular asphalt.
- Maintenance costs include strategies to clean and renew pavements, which depends on usage and environmental conditions.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Relevant Street Maintenance Department (such as LA Bureau of Street Services )
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Recycled Materials
- Kinetic Paving
Landscapes that have low water requirements, which may incorporate native plants and trees. Planting for increased biodiversity and native habitat restoration should be a primary goal.
ACTIONS
- Planting is often best in the fall months, to allow plants to establish themselves before the first major dry period and the onset of summer heat.
- Form a group to serve as responsible party for initial planting and long-term maintenance. Pursue partnerships with local organizations, municipal departments, and businesses that can provide implementation and funding assistance.
- Find a suitable site by performing a site analysis to show existing conditions such as slope, drainage, soil quality, and solar exposure. Preferably, the site should be served by existing water services.
- Choose plants and plan the site using the many resources available.
- Check adherence to municipal planting regulations. Avoid invasive species.
- Form necessary agreements with relevant agencies, which will designate a specific party responsible for long-term upkeep and maintenance, including associated costs.
- Construct garden infrastructure (e.g., seating, design elements such as rock walls or trellises, irrigation)
- Plant!
- Practice proper maintenance over time: Most drought tolerant plants are low maintenance. It is best to water drought tolerant plants thoroughly and infrequently. Frequent watering can harm many drought tolerant plants. Irrigate with drip or low flow precision rotator heads so that water soaks in slowly and doesn’t spray onto surrounding hardscape Use water efficient weather-based irrigation controllers whenever possible.
PARTNERSHIPS
- California Native Plant Society
- TreePeople
- Calflora
- Theodore Payne Foundation
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners in funding projects and ensuring proper maintenance. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
FUNDING SOURCES
RESOURCES
Design Guidance
- Drought Tolerant Plants Guide
- Native Plant List
- Drought Tolerant Landscaping Resources
- California Friendly Landscaping in Los Angeles
- Great California Native Plants
- A California-Friendly Guide to Native and Drought Tolerant Gardens
- The 13 best Calif. native drought-tolerant plants for your garden
- Drought tolerant native plants for the Los Angeles Basin
- PlantBook Resource Guide for Selecting Sustainable Landscape Plants in Southern California
Policies and Guidelines
- County of Los Angeles, Drought-Tolerant Landscape Ordinance (No. 2008-0064)
- City of Los Angeles Protected Native Tree Ordinance
- City of Los Angeles, Residential Parkway Landscaping Guidelines
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Green Wall
- Green Alley
- Community Garden
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Site Planning & Design
Image Source
An alley comfortable for pedestrians and people on bikes, as well as for vehicles. A green alley is built with materials and features that capture stormwater, reduce heat, and provide a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment.
CASE STUDIES
- The Avalon Green Alley Network Demonstration Project
- Green Alleys in South Park: Visioning Report
- Green Alley Project (Detroit, Michigan)
GOOD TO KNOW
- Costs are highly variable, depending on types of greening and sustainability features, infrastructure (e.g., paving, planting, lighting and furnishings), permitting requirements, and long-term maintenance needs.
PARTNERSHIPS
- TreePeople
- Trust for Public Land
- City of Los Angeles Department of Planning
- City of Los Angeles Department of Transportation
- City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works
- City of Los Angeles Stormwater Program
- Business Improvement Districts (BIDs)
- Non-profit community organizations
FUNDING SOURCES
- Agreements with private developers, such as community benefit agreements
- Transfer of Floor Area Ratio (TFAR) Program
RESOURCES
- Description of Green Alleys
- The Avalon Green Alley Network Demonstration Project
- Chicago Green Alleys Handbook
- NACTO Description of Green Alleys
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Garden
- Drought Tolerant Planting
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Green Wall
- Street Furniture
- Recycled Materials
- Shade
- Kinetic Paving
- Motion Sensor Lighting
- Pop-Up Music
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Farmers Market
- Cool Pavement
- Charging Station
- Public Art
- Pop-Up / Free Little Library
- Pop-Up Retail
- Water Refilling Station
- Signage/Wayfinding
- Wi-Fi (Free)
- Site Planning & Design
- Infiltration - Permeable Pavement
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Biofiltration - Flow-Through Planter Box
A vertical wall partially or completely covered with vegetation, typically consisting of a structure, growing media (soil), and integrated water delivery system.
ACTIONS
- Ensure the suitability of the site, including adequate light, conducive wall material, and proper drainage.
- Partner with appropriate agencies and designers for planting design and applicable regulations.
- Proper maintenance is critical. Regular maintenance includes occasional plant replacement, soil replenishment, and upkeep of the irrigation system. Many installation companies offer maintenance services.
GOOD TO KNOW
- The Southern California climate presents several challenges to the effectiveness and health of green walls. Irrigation systems, while necessary, should be designed for efficient distribution of water, and plants should be selected based on low water needs. In general, direct sunlight should be avoided or minimized in order to decrease water requirements.
CASE STUDIES
- The PacMutual Building in downtown Los Angeles features the tallest green wall in Los Angeles. Overlooking Pershing Square, the 80’-high wall is planted with drought-tolerant plants along with an integrated irrigation system that maximizes water efficiency.
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Drought Tolerant Planting
- Green Alley
- Recycled Materials
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Water Efficient Irrigation
Planting new trees or transplanting existing established trees in order to provide shade and aesthetic benefits.
ACTIONS
- Determine the location of the trees you wish to plant and goals you are trying to achieve (for example, provide shade, grow fruit, add color, etc.).
- Partner with a local nonprofit or municipal agency for guidance throughout the process (see resources below).
-
Determine the suitability of the planting site, including:
- Good conditions for the roots to spread: (Is there a large permeable area that is far enough away from buildings and hardscapes, soil quality).
- Good conditions for tree branch development, including room for the tree to grow up and out (Are there utility lines overhead or buildings nearby?).
-
Select tree type, based on several factors, including:
- Characteristics of the site (soil type and drainage, irrigated or not, etc.).
- Type (deciduous, evergreen, flowering, fruit, etc.).
- Aesthetic/functional goals (shape, flowering, color, shade-providing, etc.).
- Tree size at maturity.
- Root characteristics (spread and depth).
- Adherence to relevant local landscaping regulations and inclusion on an approved tree list by the relevant municipal agency (if applicable).
- Potential to support local wildlife and to restore wildlife habitat
- Complete any necessary permitting and/or maintenance agreements with relevant agency.
- As funds permit, it is best to choose more-established trees with larger root balls rather than young saplings.
- Acquire, transport and plant!
- Ensure sufficient watering during its first 1-3 years (For the first year especially, trees need regular watering to establish their roots), and ensure proper long-term maintenance, such as pruning.
GOOD TO KNOW
- In urban settings, avoid planting trees with aggressive root systems known to damage the surrounding pavement, sidewalks, and substructures. Problematic trees include species of Ficus, Sycamore, and Ash.
- Costs for planting a tree vary widely based on site preparation costs, tree type, and the maturity of the tree planted. Trees that are more mature when planted , while costlier, are a more-reliable choice for having a healthy tree.
PARTNERSHIPS
- TreePeople
- LADWP City Plants Program
- North East Trees
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners in funding tree planting and ensuring proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
RESOURCES
- TreePeople’s How-to guidance
- SelecTree: Tree Characteristics Glossary
- Talking Trees: An Urban Forestry Toolkit for Local Governments
- City of LA Tree Planting Standard Plan
- City of LA Street Tree Selection Guide
- City of LA Permission to Plant and/or Care for a Street Tree agreement
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Garden
- Drought Tolerant Planting
- Green Alley
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Graywater Reuse
- Storm Drain Mining for Stornwater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation
A roof surface designed to reflect radiation from the sun and absorb less heat, thereby reducing heat transfer into the building/structure.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Cool roofs come in a variety of materials and applications including shingles, metal, clay tiles, concrete tiles, paint, and sheet coverings. Although white provides the most solar reflectance, highly-reflective roofs can come in many colors.
- Highly-reflective roofs are typically 3 to 5 times more reflective than conventional roofs.
- Conventional roofs can reach temperatures of 150 degrees or more during the summer, while a cool roof under the same conditions could stay more than 50 degrees cooler. (CaliforniaFIRST.org)
- A cool roof can save up to 15% annually on air conditioning for a single-story building. (CaliforniaFIRST.org)
- Cool roofs can be easily integrated into new construction projects or when part or all of an existing roof needs to be replaced.
- In many cases, costs for cool roofs are competitive with traditional roofing options. Cool roofs can quickly pay for themselves in energy savings.
- Maintenance costs are similar to standard roofs.
FUNDING SOURCES
- LA Department of Water and Power
- Pacific Gas and Electric
- Southern California Edison
- For additional funding sources, see “Get Funding ”
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Shade
- Pop-Up Retail
A party for the residents of a block or neighborhood, typically held on a closed-off city street. Could also occur in a vacant or underutilized parcel.
ACTIONS
-
Choose a desired site, addressing several factors including:
- What kind of event is it?
- How much space does it need?
- What kinds of events are planned?
- Will there be vendors? Food? Alcohol?
- Does the site support the essential needs for electricity, water, shelter and safety?
- Are there public facilities available?
- Is the site easily accessible using various travel modes?
- If taking place on Metro property, partner with Metro to review your proposed event or series of events, and to ensure adherence to relevant Metro policies and procedures.
- Most cities will require a Special Event Permit for events held in the public right of way. Acquire necessary permits and pay fees depending on municipality (see resources library for some examples). Permits needed might include special event, food and alcohol, building safety, and fire department. Proof of insurance is also a usual requirement.
- Ensure that procedures for proper cleanup are in place. Sometimes the group hosting the event is solely responsible, while other times cleanup will be sponsored by the relevant street maintenance department.
GOOD TO KNOW
- As an example, the City of Los Angeles provides the following procedures for securing permits for block parties and other neighborhood events causing street closures:
-
- Find a sponsor who is a person or organization that owns or leases property on the block of the proposed event.
- Obtain petition signatures from over 50% of the people/businesses on the block or blocks.
- Submit to the Bureau of Street Services: a complete application with fees, evidence of insurance for the event, and other necessary forms/agreements.
- Pay permitting fees for all related departments (including the fire, police, and transportation departments).
RESOURCES
- Block Party in a Box (Creative Exchange)
- City of Los Angeles Municipal Codes
- LA County Health Code Requirements for Community Events
- Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, daily license
- Potential funding source: Neighborhood Councils (Click here for City of LA Neighborhood Councils)
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Pop-Up Music
- Outdoor Sports / Fitness
- Blood Drive / Health Screening
- Community Class / Workshop
- Community Festival
- Farmers Market
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Flash Mob
- Holiday Event
- Pop-Up Library / Free Little Library
An event where community members come to donate blood or to receive general health screenings.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Think creatively – you can make your event more successful by tying it in with a theme or event, such as inviting a local radio station, having a holiday theme, or hosting an outdoor movie event.
- Contact a local health organization such as the UCLA Mobile Clinic Project, Bienvenidos Mobile Health Unit, or City Help Mobile Medical Clinic.
- For blood drives, contact the American Red Cross, who can guide you through the pre-event planning and recruitment process. The Red Cross will take care of all staffing and materials needs for the actual event.
FUNDING SOURCES
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Shade
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Community Festival
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
A group of people who gather to participate in an organized activity or group workshop led by an instructor.
ACTIONS
-
Choose a suitable site, addressing several factors including:
- Is an outdoor public space suitable for the desired class?
- Will the space accommodate associated activities and the number of potential participants?
- Does the site support the essential needs for electricity, water, shelter and safety?
- Are there public facilities available?
- Is the site easily accessible using various travel modes?
- If taking place on Metro property, partner with Metro to review your proposed event or series of events, and to ensure adherence to relevant Metro policies and procedures.
- For classes taking place on municipal property or in the public right of way, acquire applicable permits, if necessary, from the relevant agency. (See the Resource Library for links)
PARTNERSHIPS
- City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA)
- Local schools and universities
- Nonprofit organizations
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Pop-Up Music
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Outdoor Sports / Fitness
- Community Festival
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Wi-Fi (Free)
A community-led event centering on and celebrating a unique aspect of that community and its traditions.
ACTIONS
- Form an event committee, a workplan, a budget, and a timeline.
- Consider forming a partnership with a local community event organizer or a nonprofit with experience organizing events.
-
Choose a site, addressing several factors including:
- What kind of event is it?
- Who is the audience?
- How much space does it need?
- What kinds of events are planned?
- Will there be vendors? Food? Alcohol?
- Does the site support the essential needs for electricity, water, shelter and safety?
- Is there adequate space for audience seating and performance needs?
- Are there public facilities available?
- Is the site easily accessible using various travel modes?
- Most cities will require a Special Event Permit for events held in the public right of way. Acquire necessary permits and pay fees depending on municipality (see the Resource Library for some examples). Permits needed might include special event, food and alcohol, building safety, and fire department. Proof of insurance is also a usual requirement.
- Ensure that procedures for proper cleanup are in place. Sometimes the group hosting the event is solely responsible, while other times cleanup will be sponsored by the relevant street maintenance department.
FUNDING SOURCES
- DCA Cultural Grant Program for Outdoor Festivals
- Community Fundraising Ideas for Special Events
- Community Arts LA
RESOURCES
- City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA)
- Community Arts Resources
- Neighborhood groups
- Non-profit community organizations
- Festival Producers Handbook
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Pop-Up Music
- Block Party
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Open Street Event
- Blood Drive / Health Screening
- Farmers Market
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Flash Mob
- Holiday Event
- Live Music / Performance
- Public Art
- Pop-Up Retail
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
The use of space for recreation or physical fitness purposes, either organized or impromptu. Fitness uses can also include permanent installations of fitness equipment.
ACTIONS
-
For an organized fitness class, find a suitable site based on several factors, including:
- How much space does it need?
- Is the site easily accessible by local community members? Is it within walking or bicycling distance?
- How much parking is nearby, and is it easy to access?
- What kind of bathroom facilities are available?
- Are there lights for night or early-morning fitness classes?
- Classes taking place on municipal property or in the public right of way may require permits. Contact the relevant agency or department to ensure adherence to any local policies, ordinances, and requirements. (See the Resource Library for links). For fitness classes, policies may vary based on whether it is a non-profit or for-profit event.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation
- City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks
RESOURCES
- IDEA Health and Fitness Association
- Guide to Starting a Fitness Bootcamp
- Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Community Class / Workshop
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Water Bottle Refiling Station
A brief public gathering at which people perform a seemingly random act that is typically organized formally beforehand through social media and/or email, in order to improve social networks, engage with public spaces, call attention to an issue, etc.
ACTIONS
- Have a clear-cut goal.
- Create a compelling, often humorous and fun, act that supports your goal. The success of a flash mob event depends on the originality, liveliness, and allure of the event.
- Decide on a date and location in a busy place.
- Figure out performance logistics, including any supplies or props needed
- Recruit. Start with people you know. On social media sites, be cognizant of how public/private your invite needs to be.
- Contact established, relevant groups and give them a firm grasp of your concept.
- Follow other rules and check regulations of the applicable local government agency.
(Adapted from Spriral16)
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Pop-Up Music
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Community Festival
- Holiday Event
- Live Music / Performance
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
A temporary event such as a pumpkin patch, hayride, craft fair, or Christmas Tree lot.
ACTIONS
- Form an event committee, a workplan, a budget, and a timeline.
- Consider forming a partnership with a local community event organizer or a nonprofit with experience organizing events.
-
Choose a site, addressing several factors including:
- What kind of event is it?
- Who is the audience?
- How much space does it need?
- What kinds of events are planned?
- Will there be vendors? Food? Alcohol?
- Does the site support the essential needs for electricity, water, shelter and safety?
- Is there adequate space for audience seating and performance needs?
- Are there public facilities available?
- Is the site easily accessible using various travel modes?
- Most cities will require a Special Event Permit for events held in the public right of way. Acquire necessary permits and pay fees depending on municipality (see the Resource Library for some examples). Permits needed might include special event, food and alcohol, building safety, and fire department. Proof of insurance is also a usual requirement.
- Ensure that procedures for proper cleanup are in place. Sometimes the group hosting the event is solely responsible, while other times cleanup will be sponsored by the relevant street maintenance department.
PARTNERSHIPS
- City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA)
- Neighborhood groups
- Non-profit community organizations
FUNDING SOURCES
- City of LA Department of Cultural Affairs Cultural Grant Program for Outdoor Festivals
- Community Fundraising Ideas for Special Events
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Shade
- Pop-Up Music
- Block Party
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Open Street Event
- Community Festival
- Farmers Market
- Flash Mob
- Live Music / Performance
- Public Art
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
A gathering of employers with available jobs and related training, who interface with interested job-seekers.
ACTIONS
- Set a date and time for your job fair far enough in the future to ensure the availability of the highest number of employers.
-
Form a community or group of individuals to divide up duties which may include:
- Organizing event logistics, including securing a location and other administrative duties.
- Organizing volunteer staff.
- Inviting companies to participate.
- Promoting the event through community outreach including social media.
- Organizing booths and, perhaps, an “interview room” for on-the-spot interviews
PARTNERSHIPS
RESOURCES
- Job Fair Toolkit: A Practical Guide and Best Practices for Organizing, Conduction, and Attending Job Fairs
- How to Organize a Successful Job Fair
- Organizing a Successful Career Fair
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Shade
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
Music, dancing, films, or other forms of arts and entertainment in the public realm.
ACTIONS
- Consider seeking assistance from a public events firm or music / performance professional particularly one specializing in arts and culture.
- Form an event committee, a workplan, a budget, and a timeline.
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Choose a desired site, addressing several factors including:
- What kind of event is it?
- Who is the audience?
- How much space does it need?
- What kinds of events are planned?
- Will there be vendors? Food? Alcohol?
- Does the site support the essential needs for electricity, water, shelter and safety?
- Is there adequate space for audience seating and performance needs?
- Are there public facilities available?
- Is the site easily accessible using various travel modes?
- Most cities will require a Special Event Permit for events held in the public right of way. Acquire necessary permits and pay fees depending on municipality (see the Resource Library for some examples). Permits needed might include special event, food and alcohol, building safety, and fire department. Proof of insurance is also a usual requirement.
- If applicable, obtain a daily/temporary license for serving alcohol from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
- Ensure that procedures for proper cleanup are in place. Sometimes the group hosting the event is solely responsible, while other times cleanup will be sponsored by the relevant street maintenance department.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Music LA, Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA)
- Other cultural organizations
FUNDING SOURCES
EXAMPLES
- The Watts Towers Art Center hosts the Simon Rodia Watts Towers Jazz Festival and Drum Festival each year in the fall. The former includes performances by renown jazz musicians and the latter encourages community members to participate in music creation. The Watts Towers Art Center is just adjacent to the Metro Watts Towers/103rd Street Station.
- The Levitt Pavilions produce concert series throughout the summer at their MacArthur Park and Memorial Park outdoor amphitheaters. Both locations are within .5 miles of a Metro Rail Station, the Red and the Gold Lines respectively, and draw crowds throughout the week to a diverse line-up of Levitt Pavilion performances.
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Recycled Materials
- Shade
- Pop-Up Music
- Community Festival
- Farmers Market
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Flash Mob
- Holiday Event
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
A community event during which people gather to clean the urban realm.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Non-profit community organizations
- Local municipal department of street services
- Business Improvement Districts (BIDs)
- Schools
- Residents
RESOURCES
- Neighborhood Action Kit (California Water Boards)
- The City of Los Angeles Mayor’s Office - Mayor’s Volunteer Corps
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
A temporary exhibit for objects of historical, scientific, artistic or cultural interest. It often takes the form of a one-time event during which participants share based on a theme.
GOOD TO KNOW
- A successful Pop-Up Exhibit will benefit from strong partnerships with museums, galleries, local artists, or schools.
- Get inspired by other events all around the world by checking out Examples .
RESOURCES
EXAMPLES
- In the fall of 2014, the downtown Los Angeles Grand Central Market invited artist collective, the Yarn Bombing LA, to curate and create knit artworks ultimately installed to the Market’s interior columns. Local organizations including Gather DTLA, Angelus Plaza Senior Center, Downtown Women's Center, Braille Institute, Pasadena Crochet Meetup, and the Central Public Library Knitting Group came together to knit the yarn panels. Grand Central Market is adjacent to Pershing Square Station.
- New York Grand Central Terminal has been host to Pop-Up style exhibits. Marking Grand Central Terminal’s centennial year, MTA Arts for Transit and Urban Design presented the exhibition " On Time/ Grand Central at 100" featuring the work of more than a dozen contemporary artists. According to the NYC MTA Art for Transit, "this is an exhibition about Time – and about the people who move and live through it, who are connected to the past and future through their experience in this iconic, romantic place".
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Recycled Materials
- Shade
- Pop-Up Music
- Block Party
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Open Street Event
- Community Festival
- Holiday Event
- Live Music / Performance
- Public Art
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Wi-Fi (Free)
Concerts and other musical activities to enliven spaces for transit riders.
EXAMPLES
- In 2012, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra sponsored a community-wide event titled “Play Me, I’m Yours” which encouraged public engagement and the activation of public space. 30 pianos, each decorated by a local artist or community organization, were placed in 30 public locations spread throughout neighborhoods of LA County. For three weeks, members of the public were free to play their own music or listen to others, and they could upload and view photos and videos through an online website.
PARTNERSHIPS
- City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, Music LA
- LA County Arts Commission, Metro Arts Program
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Community Class / Workshop
- Community Festival
- Flash Mob
- Live Music / Performance
- Public Art
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Underpass Activation
A kiosk or small structure that offers charging for cell phones, computers, or other electronic devices.
GOOD TO KNOW
- To best support first/last mile connectivity, charging stations should be located near a Metro station area where people often wait or gather.
- Charging stations are typically fixed, permanent, and hooked up to existing power sources. However, there are increasing opportunities to install innovative charging stations that utilize power generated from solar, wind, or human kinetic energy.
- Metro, LADOT and the City of Los Angeles have collaborated on a pilot program to equip existing bus shelters with USB charging stations and Wi-Fi hotspots.
CASE STUDIES
- A charging station at Webster University in St Louis, Missouri utilizes solar energy as well as energy from footsteps on nearby kinetic tiles.
- Several train stations in France feature exercise bikes that can charge a phone, tablet or computer.
FUNDING SOURCES
- If the installation utilizes solar or wind power, there are a variety of funding sources for energy-efficiency projects including city, regional, state, and private grant programs. See the Get Funding section for more information.
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Shade
- Solar Amenities
- Wind Generator
- Public Art
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Wi-Fi (Free)
A mini-park within the street right-of-way which extends the sidewalk, usually created by eliminating one or two parking spaces. Parklets may include a variety of uses including seating, tables, planting, and play elements.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Different municipalities have their own procedures for parklet development. The information below comes from the LA Department of Transportation’s People St program, which coordinates the city’s parklet program.
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There are many criteria for site location. Some include:
- Supporting surrounding land uses including food, retail, transit facilities and cultural institutions
- Areas with high pedestrian activity
- Curbside lane at least 8’ wide
- Speed limit of 25 mph or less, or on streets with speed limits up to 35 mph with additional design considerations
- Parklets are sponsored, designed, installed, maintained and operated by a designated Community Partner. The Community Partner is typically a business or community organization, a business owner, or a nonprofit or community-based organization.
- The Community Partner signs an agreement with the City of Los Angeles outlining several financial responsibilities including design and installation; materials and installation costs; liability insurance; and full responsibility for operations and maintenance.
- A “Kit of Parts” developed by People St contains preapproved elements and configurations that can expedite approval and implementation.
PARTNERSHIPS
- People St (City of Los Angeles)
- Business Improvement Districts (BIDs)
- Community Benefit Districts (CBDs)
- Chamber of Commerce
- Non-profit community organizations
- Local businesses fronting parklet
FUNDING SOURCES
- Local businesses and Business Improvement Districts
- Pro-bono assistance from design professionals
- Materials sponsorships/donations
RESOURCES
- Parklet "Kit of Parts" (People St)
- Parklet Application Manual (People St)
- National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)
- San Francisco Parklet Photos
- PARK(ing) Day “pop-up” parklets
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Outdoor Dining
- Shade
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Drought Tolerant Planting
- Recycled Materials
- Public Art
- Wayfinding/Signage
- Device Charging Stations
- Free WiFi
Temporary public open space created by closing a portion of the street to vehicular traffic and introducing street furniture and programming.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Different municipalities have their own procedures for plaza development. The information below comes from the LA Department of Transportation’s People St program, which coordinates the city’s pedestrian plaza program.
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There are many criteria for site location. Some include:
- Supporting surrounding land uses including food, retail, transit facilities and cultural institutions
- Areas with high pedestrian activity
- Local operations and maintenance partners
- Community support
- Pedestrian Plazas are sponsored, designed, installed, maintained and operated by a designated Community Partner. The Community Partner is typically a business or community organization, a business owner, or a nonprofit or community-based organization.
- The Community Partner signs an agreement with the City of Los Angeles outlining several financial responsibilities including design and installation; materials and installation costs; liability insurance; and full responsibility for operations and maintenance.
- A “Plaza Application Manual” developed by People St contains steps for applying, designing, developing these plazas
PARTNERSHIPS
- People St (City of Los Angeles)
- Business Improvement Districts (BIDs)
- Community Benefit Districts (CBDs)
- Chamber of Commerce
- Non-profit community organizations
- Local businesses fronting plaza
FUNDING SOURCES
- Local businesses, BIDs and CBD
- Pro-bono assistance from design professionals
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Wall
- Drought Tolerant Planting
- Cool Pavement
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Shade
- Solar Amenities
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Kinetic Paving
- Motion Sensor Lighting
- Public Art
- Pop-Up Music
- Outdoor Sports / Fitness
- Blood Drive / Health Screening
- Community Class / Workshop
- Job Fair
- Community Festival
- Farmers Market
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Flash Mob
- Holiday Event
- Neighborhood Cleanup
- Live Music / Performance
- Charging Station
- Pop-Up Library / Free Little Library
- Pop-Up Retail
- Street Furniture
- Water Refilling Stations
- Signage/Wayfinding
- Wi-Fi (Free)
- Groundwater Reuse
- Sanitary Sewer Mining For Wastewater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Infiltration - Permeable Pavement
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
Informal structures that allow community members to borrow and leave books and other forms of print media.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Costs are dependent on the type of construction (“from scratch” vs. adaption of existing street infrastructure); both typically low cost. You can purchase one from Little Free Library for between $150 - $250 (unfinished).
- Areas near or at schools are desirable locations for a pop-up library.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Local public libraries
- Los Angeles County Public Library
- Local bookstores and comic book stores
- Neighborhood book clubs
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Recycled Materials
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Underpass Activation
Short-term sales spaces for goods and services. Although these spaces are often small and temporary, they can build up high levels of consumer interest based on location and exposure to customers.
ACTIONS
General steps to follow include:
- Choose and confirm a location
- Advertise the space
- Pay rent and obtain insurance
- Build and design space
- Sell products or goods
- Deconstruct the space
GOOD TO KNOW
- The cost for a pop-up retail space varies dependent on size, location, duration, and insurance, but is generally of lower cost than a permanent, “brick and mortar” space.
PARTNERSHIPS
- There are several companies that assist businesses interested in a pop-up retail space with tasks such as obtaining insurance, marketing, and design. It is important that there is a partnership with Metro if the proposed space is on Metro property.
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
Chairs, tables and benches placed on sidewalks or other public rights-of-way. Placement can be temporary or permanent, fixed or movable, depending on location and use. Businesses with active storefronts, such as restaurants or cafés, can sometimes place seats and tables in the public realm outside of their businesses.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Any furniture should be strategically placed to enhance the public realm considering all users of the road.
- The placement of street furniture must ensure a clear path for pedestrians and comply with accessibility requirements. For outdoor dining areas, physical diverters (e.g., low fencing, low walls, or landscape planters) at either end of a dining area are required to guide the visually impaired toward a clear path of travel.
- Street furniture including tables, umbrellas, chairs, and enclosing elements can be either freestanding or fixed. Furniture should be fabricated of durable materials that are compatible with the surrounding visual character and that are resistant to sun and water damage. Furniture must be stable and have sufficient weight to avoid being tipped over by wind.
- Most municipalities require a permit for utilization of the sidewalk space for outdoor dining. Contact the relevant agency in your city to check specific regulations, requirements, and fees. For example, in the City of Los Angeles, a Revocable Permit (R-Permit) is required for furnishings placed in the public right-of-way.
- Street furniture can be playful and even pieces of public art, which can help to unify a neighborhood or district.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Local businesses
- Relevant municipal departments
- Street furniture companies
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Recycled Materials
- Shade
- Solar Amenities
- Motion Sensor Lighting
- Pop-Up Music
- Community Festival
- Charging Station
- Public Art
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Pop-Up Library / Free Little Library
- Underpass Activation
- Water Refilling Station
- Signage/Wayfinding
- Wi-Fi (Free)
Improve the walkability, visibility and safety of a highway underpass or overpass.
ACTIONS
General steps to follow include:
- Determine property ownership
- Coordinate with relevant city or county departments
- Pinpoint a location
- Engage the community
- Select an artist if applicable
- Obtain financing and funding
- Approve design with relevant departments
- Fabricate and/or install
- Plan for long-term maintenance
GOOD TO KNOW
- Costs to improve freeway underpasses can vary depending on the level of design intervention. Elements that can be added include lighting, public art, landscaping, signage, clean up, and maintenance.
- Materials that provide sound attenuation can be made an integral component of an underpass installation
CASE STUDIES
PARTNERSHIPS
- Relevant municipal departments
- Non-profit community organizations
- Local artists
- Neighborhood groups
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Public Art
- Kinetic Paving
- Motion-Sensor Lights
Public water fountains that allow for the refilling of reusable water bottles, often with filtered water, encouraging reduced consumption of plastic water bottles.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Costs are approximately $2,000 to $4,000 per station.
- Installation is especially desirable in areas where people gather, such as a busy transit stop, local park, or a recreational field.
PARTNERSHIPS
RESOURCES
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Outdoor Sports / Fitness
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Underpass Activation
Providing visual and other sensory cues to orient people to locations, landmarks and destinations.
ACTIONS
General steps to follow include:
- Identify areas of cultural or regional significance
- Study patterns of pedestrian travel, both formal and informal
- Pinpoint ideal locations of wayfinding infrastructure
- Partner with Metro and/or other relevant municipal departments
- Design clear and consistent wayfinding infrastructure
- Submit designs for review and permitting
- Fabricate wayfinding infrastructure upon completion of review
- Install wayfinding infrastructure
FUNDING SOURCES
- Metro Signage/Wayfinding Grant Pilot Program
- For funding sources, see "Get Funding"
RESOURCES
- Metro Signage/Wayfinding Grant Pilot Program
- Introduction to Wayfinding Guide
- Wayfinding for Pedestrians in Urban Areas
- Society for Environmental Graphic Design's 2012 assessment of the ADA’s Standards for Accessible Design
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Solar Amenities
- Wind Generator
- Kinetic Paving
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Public Art
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Underpass Activation
A free facility allowing computers, smartphones, tablets, etc. to connect to the internet in a public space.
ACTIONS
General steps to follow include:
- Identify public areas where high levels of pedestrian activity exist
- Coordinate with partners to allow for Wi-Fi
- Ensure safe computing
- Share location with public
CASE STUDIES
- The City of Culver City has partnered with Cisco to deploy Wi-Fi (Free) throughout its Town Plaza. A full coverage map can be found here
PARTNERSHIPS
- Various W-Fi providers
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners that may provide funding for installation and fees. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Community Class / Workshop
- Charging Station
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza`
Onsite treatment and use of wastewater from indoor water use, used as irrigation water and, in some cases, for use as toilet flushing water.
ACTIONS
- Determine sources and uses to be used for graywater. Do not use garbage disposal or dishwasher water without more advanced treatment.
- Determine type of graywater reuse system desired and level of treatment required.
- Create plans and obtain permits, if needed.
- Install and maintain.
GOOD TO KNOW
- California Plumbing Code defines graywater as untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet discharge, has not been affected by unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes. Graywater quality is highly variable because it is source-dependent given the variability in household water use. For example, water from clothes washers is high in phosphate content, whereas water from the shower has high turbidity and suspended solids. Residential graywater can be categorized as light graywater or heavy graywater.
- Routine maintenance depends on the components used. Health risk concerns include potential exposure to pathogenic bacteria and viruses, which may occur through direct contact with graywater as well as through exposure to graywater contaminated irrigated areas, crops, or groundwater. For this reason, it is important that human contact with untreated graywater or its areas of exposure are minimized.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts and groups such as The Bay Foundation , WaterLA, Greywater Action, and The Center for Urban Waters .
RESOURCES
- 2013 California Plumbing Code, Chapter 16A, Non-Potable Reuse Systems
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Green Infrastructure
- EPA Guidelines for Water Reuse
- WaterLA
- Greywater Action
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Garden
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
Sewer Mining is the extraction and treatment of wastewater, typically for irrigation use, before it reaches the wastewater treatment plant.
ACTIONS
- Determine location of accessible sewer mains and lift stations.
- Make determination that sewer mining is a suitable option for the site given its irrigation needs, proximity to major sewer flows and costs.
- Work with engineering firm and local water and wastewater district to assess feasibility.
- Make necessary long term agreements for access to sewer water.
- Create plans and obtain permits.
- Install, operate and maintain wastewater treatment system.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Sewer mining is typically small in scale and decentralized. Instead of collecting a whole city’s wastewater and sending it to a large centralized treatment plant and then piping the reclaimed water great distances for re-use, with sewer mining the acquisition, treatment and re-use of the sewage typically all happens in the same location.
- Operation and maintenance of sewer mining treatment systems is complex with most systems requiring operation by certified wastewater treatment operators. Maintenance requires technical expertise and is typically performed by companies and personnel with experience servicing the components that make up the treatment system.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts and groups such as Greywater Corps , the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association and the Council for Watershed Health.
RESOURCES
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Decentralized Wastewater Treatment: A Sensible Solution
- Recycled Water Uses Allowed in California
- Los Angeles County, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Water Action Plan
- Gray Water Action
- WaterLA
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Garden
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
Storm drain mining is the extraction and treatment of stormwater from drainage channels servicing large areas, typically for irrigation use, before it reaches the ocean. Instead of collecting the rainwater from a single property (rainwater harvesting), stormwater, including dry-weather runoff, can be collected from drainage channels with more consistent flows.
ACTIONS
- Determine location of accessible storm drain mains and channels.
- Make determination that storm drain mining is a suitable option for the site given its irrigation needs, proximity to major stormwater flows and costs.
- Work with engineering firm and local water and wastewater district to assess feasibility.
- Make necessary long term agreements for access to storm water.
- Create plans and obtain permits.
- Install, operate and maintain wastewater treatment system.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Sewer mining is typically small in scale and decentralized. Instead of collecting a whole city’s wastewater and sending it to a large centralized treatment plant and then piping the reclaimed water great distances for re-use, with sewer mining the acquisition, treatment and re-use of the sewage typically all happens in the same location.
- Operation and maintenance of storm drain mining treatment systems is somewhat complex. Operation and maintenance requires technical expertise and is typically performed by companies and personnel with experience servicing the components that make up the treatment system.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts and groups such as the Council for Watershed Health , Water Environment Foundation, Stormwater Institute .
RESOURCES
- Natural Resource Defense Council, Pacific Institute, Stormwater Capture Potential in Urban and Suburban California
- Garcetti Signs Agreement to Fund Stormwater Treatment Project
- Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Stormwater Capture Master Plan
- Santa Monica Urban Runoff Recycling Facility
- California Department of Public Health, Regulations Related to Recycled Water
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
Innovative techniques and products that utilize real-time onsite weather data, locally broadcast weather data, and/or soil moisture data to automatically adjust the irrigation schedules based upon climate and soil moisture adjusted water demands of the landscape. Irrigation control technologies can significantly reduce overwatering by applying water only when plants need it.
ACTIONS
- Determine irrigation needs.
- Determine best irrigation schedule.
- Select appropriate water efficient irrigation controller.
- Confirm controller will work with irrigation system.
- Obtain and install water efficient irrigation controller.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Water efficient irrigation controllers have about the same operation and maintenance requirements as those of traditional irrigation controllers but can be slightly more difficult to set up due to initial programming requirements.
- Metro is utilizing water-efficient irrigation controls at several locations including the Orange Line Extension corridor and El Monte Station.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts and groups such as the Alliance for Water Efficiency , the California Urban Water Conservation Council , and WaterLA.
.
RESOURCES
- Smart Irrigation Controllers: What Makes an Irrigation Controller
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Water Sense
- City of Los Angeles Irrigation Guidelines
- Evaluation of California Weather-Based “SMART” Irrigation Controller Programs
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Garden
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
Innovative techniques and products that increase irrigation efficiency and minimize water use. Examples include drip irrigation, micro-spray irrigation and deep watering of trees.
ACTIONS
- Determine irrigation needs.
- Determine best irrigation method.
- Select appropriate water efficient irrigation equipment.
- Make irrigation equipment plan and obtain permits, if needed.
- Obtain and install water efficient irrigation equipment.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Regular inspections and maintenance of drip and micro-spray irrigation systems are necessary to achieve optimal performance. Common problems include clogged emitters/nozzles, emitter/nozzle spacing, missing emitters/nozzles and damaged or pinched tubing.
- Multiple rotators are a water efficient option along with drip and micro-sprays.
- Multiple rotators are an easy retrofit to an existing spray irrigation system and are 2.5 times more efficient than sprays.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts and groups such as the Alliance for Water Efficiency , the California Urban Water Conservation Council , and WaterLA.
RESOURCES
- An Introduction to Drip and Micro-Spray Irrigation
- The Center for Irrigation Technology, Fresno State University
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Water Sense
- City of Los Angeles Irrigation Guidelines
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Garden
- Drought Tolerant Planting
- Green Wall
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Underpass Activation
- Graywater Reuse
- Sanitary Sewer Mining for Wastewater Reuse
- Storm Drain Mining for Stormwater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
A shaft or cylinder constructed in the ground to dissipate stormwater runoff into the ground.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based on soil permeability, planned and existing structures (required distances, generally 20 to 30 feet, from structures vary by jurisdiction) and landscape features, such as trees.
- Determine type of infiltration dry well.
- Create construction plans and obtain permits, if needed.
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Dry wells are gravity-fed excavated pits lined with perforated casing and backfilled with gravel or stone. Dry wells penetrate layers of clay soils with poor infiltration rates to reach more permeable layers of soil, allowing for more rapid infiltration of stormwater.
- They can be used in conjunction with low impact development (LID) practices to reduce the harmful effects that traditional stormwater management practices have had on the aquatic ecosystem. Their use on hillsides is often limited.
- Dry wells not only aid in stormwater runoff reduction, but they can also increase groundwater recharge, are economical, and have minimal space requirements.
- No regular maintenance is required.
- Dry wells should be installed 25 feet from building foundations, 3 feet from sidewalks, 10 feet from property lines and an overflow drain pipe to the street is required. In Los Angeles, the setbacks can be reduced if a geotechnical report is submitted and approved by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents , the California Stormwater Quality Association , and WaterLA.
RESOURCES
- Dry well diagram for residential uses
- Dry wells – Uses, Regulations, and Guidelines
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development, Standards Manual
- California State Water Resources Control Board – Dry wells
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Site Planning & Design
An infiltration basin is a shallow earthen basin constructed in naturally-permeable soil designed for retaining and infiltrating stormwater runoff into the underlying native soils and the groundwater table. The bottoms of the basins are typically vegetated with dry-land grasses or irrigated turf grass.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based on planned and existing structures (required distances, generally 20 to 30 feet, from structures vary by jurisdiction) and landscape features, such as trees.
- Determine size and type of infiltration basin, including where to direct overflow.
- Create construction plans and obtain permits, if needed.
- Select plants based on anticipated rainfall and drainage area feeding the rain garden planter, depending on topography of rain garden, some submersion of plants may occur, plant should be selected for tolerance to anticipated submersion
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Regular maintenance is required to maintain the initial infiltration rate. Since the basin is designed to soak water into the ground, anything that can clog the base, such as sediment, debris and/or excessive vegetation, will reduce performance and be a concern. Infiltration basins can be challenging to apply on many sites because of the soils requirements needed for adequate infiltration. In addition, some studies have shown relatively high failure rates compared with other management practices (EPA).
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, the California Stormwater Quality Association , and the Council for Watershed Health.
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners that may provide funding for installation and proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
- TreePeople
- California Native Plant Society
- Theodore Payne Foundation
- Green Gardens Group
- North East Trees
- Los Angeles Beautification Team
- California Urban Water Conservation Council
RESOURCES
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Infiltration Basin
- California Department of Transportation, Infiltration Basins and Trenches
- California Stormwater Quality Association, Infiltration Basin
- California Stormwater Quality Association, Infiltration Trench
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development, Standards Manual
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
Site Planning & Design
A small- to large-scale system that collects and stores rainwater from a roof, impermeable, and/or permeable area that would otherwise be lost to runoff. The stormwater is used for non-potable water purposes such as irrigation, vehicle washing, and toilet flushing.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based on water source and irrigation needs.
- Determine size and type of cistern, piping needs, and whether a pump will be needed.
- Create construction plans and obtain permits, if needed.
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Inspect all components (e.g.., roof connection, gutter, downspout, rain barrel/cistern, insect screens, overflow pipe) at least twice per year, and repair or replacement as needed. Clean insect and debris screens as needed.
- It is important to eliminate standing water to prevent vector breeding (mosquitoes).
- Indoor use of rainwater is usually subject to additional regulations per DPW
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, Treepeople, California Stormwater Quality Association, Greywater Action, and the National Resource Defense Council.
RESOURCES
- City of Los Angeles, Stormwater Program, Rain Barrels and Cisterns
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development, Standards Manual
- County of Los Angeles, Department of Public Health, Requirements for the Installation and Pipeline Construction for Safe Reuse of Rainfall/Run-Off, Non-Potable Cistern Water and Urban Run-Off Water
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Municipal Handbook, Rainwater Harvesting Policies
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Infiltration - Permeable Pavement
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
A small-scale system for collecting and storing rainwater from a roof. The stormwater is used for irrigation. Water cannot be collected from a drain system or channel. The collected water cannot have been previously been put to use.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based on water source and irrigation needs.
- Determine size, type and number of barrels needed, piping needs, and whether a pump will be needed.
- Create or obtain plans.
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Inspect all components (e.g., roof connection, gutter, downspout, rain barrel/cistern, mosquito screen, overflow pipe) at least twice per year, and repair or replace as needed. Clean insect and debris screens as needed. Eliminate standing water to prevent vector breeding (mosquitos).
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PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents and TreePeople, Keep Los Angeles Beautiful, Surfrider Foundation, Greywater Action , the California Urban Water Conservation Council and the California Stormwater Quality Association.
- Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, Rain Barrel Rebate Program
- Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Rain Barrel Rebate Program
- WaterLA
RESOURCES
- City of Los Angeles, Stormwater Program, Rain Barrels and Cisterns
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development, Standards Manual
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Municipal Handbook, Rainwater Harvesting Policies
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Infiltration - Permeable Pavement
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
Image: Abraham Sheppard
In order to maximize on-site use and capture of water; conserve natural areas, soils, vegetation; minimize disturbances to natural drainage patterns; minimize and disconnect impervious surfaces; minimize soil compaction; and direct runoff from impervious areas to pervious areas.
ACTIONS
- Determine project location, purpose and planned critical infrastructure
- Architectural and engineering firms plan the development
- Planning must include adherence to local Low Impact Development (LID) requirements and the determination of best management practices (BMP’s) for the site based on the planned development. Review permeability of soils and soil quality/contamination.
- Seek approvals from local regulatory authorities
- Comply with State laws and regulations, including CEQA
- Incorporate public comments, requirements by local regulators and other mitigation measures required by State and local authorities
- Complete final plan for site
GOOD TO KNOW
- Operation and maintenance varies greatly depending on the implemented best management practices.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents and not for profit interest groups, such as TreePeople, Los Angeles Sustainability Collaborative, Los Angeles Water Keeper, Heal the Bay, Council for Watershed Health, Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission, California Urban Water Conservation Council, Santa Monica Baykeeper, Surfrider Foundation, Theodore Payne Foundation, Center for Urban Waters and California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA).
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners to assist in installation costs and costs for proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
CASE STUDIES
- The Broadway Neighborhood Greenway project is a pilot project in South Los Angeles aiming to green and enhance the area. Homeowners can beautify the neighborhood by making their homes more environmentally friendly and also improve local water quality. Business owners can benefit from public space improvements that will help to reduce urban runoff near their businesses.
RESOURCES
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Low Impact Development
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development, Standards Manual
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual
- City of Los Angeles, How to Build Mother Nature Into Your Project, Standard Urban Stormwater Mitigation Plans, Site-Specific Mitigation Plans
- Los Angeles County, Metropolitan Transit Authority, Moving Towards Sustainability
- California Stormwater Quality Association, Resources
- Technical Guidance Document Best Management Practices (BMP) Fact Sheets
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Drought Tolerant Planting
- Green Alley
- Tree Planting / Reuse
- Bioinfiltration - Unlined Rain-Garden
- Infiltration - Permeable Pavement
- Infiltration - Dry Well
- Infiltration - Infiltration Basin
- Biofiltration - Flow Through Planter Box
- Biofiltration - Lined Rain Garden
- Bioinfiltration - Bioswale / Vegetated Swale
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Infiltration Planter Box
- Bioinfiltration - Vegetated Stormwater Curb Extension
Flow through planters are structures placed above-ground with impervious bottoms that are filled with soil and vegetation, allowing stormwater to infiltrate through the soil before being discharged. The bottom of a planter contains a porous pipe and/or gravel layer that drains the stormwater after it has filtered through the soil and vegetation. Planters are typically installed next to buildings or common open areas to treat stormwater from rooftops.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based site conditions.
- Determine size and type of flow-through planter box, drainage plumbing, planned landscaping, and irrigation needs.
- Create plans, if needed, and obtain permits, if needed.
- Select plants based on anticipated rainfall and drainage area feeding the flow-through planter
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install and plant.
GOOD TO KNOW
- No regular maintenance is required other than routine landscape maintenance. Requires plants viable in well-drained soil.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts, the Council for Watershed Health , the California Stormwater Quality Association and Los Angeles Beautification Team.
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners that may provide funding for installation and proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
- TreePeople
- California Native Plant Society
- Theodore Payne Foundation
- Green Gardens Group
- North East Trees
- Los Angeles Beautification Team
- California Urban Water Conservation Council
RESOURCES
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Green Infrastructure (Planter Boxes)
- Caltrans Biofiltration Swale Design Guidance
- Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Stormwater Capture Master Plan
- Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, Flow-Through Planter
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development Standards Manual (Pages 3-3, 7-5, and E-77)
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Management Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual (Pages 15, 48, 49, and 52)
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Graywater Reuse
- Sanitary Sewer Mining for Wastewater Reuse
- Storm Drain Mining for Stormwater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Capture & Use - Cistern
- Capture & Use - Rain Barrel
- Site Planning & Design
Bioswales or vegetated swales are storm water runoff conveyance systems designed to infiltrate and remove silt and pollution from runoff water. The stormwater is used for irrigation and to recharge groundwater.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based site conditions.
- Determine size and type of bioswale, planned landscaping, and irrigation needs.
- Create plans, if needed, and obtain permits, if needed.
- Action to add: Select plants based on anticipated rainfall and drainage area feeding the swale
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install and plant.
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
- No regular maintenance is required other than routine landscape maintenance.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local water districts, the Council for Watershed Health , Lawn Reform Coalition, the Los Angeles Beautification Team and L.A. Creek Freak.
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners that may provide funding for installation and proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
- TreePeople
- California Native Plant Society
- Theodore Payne Foundation
- Green Gardens Group
- North East Trees
- Los Angeles Beautification Team
- California Urban Water Conservation Council
RESOURCES
- Case Study: Elmer Avenue Neighborhood Retrofit
- City of Los Angeles, Green Infrastructure for Los Angeles
- Caltrans Biofiltration Swale Design Guidance
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Green Infrastructure (Bioswales)
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development Standards Manual (Sections 4-5, 4-10, 7-3, 7-5, and E-99)
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Management Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual (Pages 28, 35, 41, 48, 50, 52 to 58 and 60)
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Graywater Reuse
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Sanitary Sewer Mining for Wastewater Reuse
- Storm Drain Mining for Stormwater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Capture & Use - Cistern
- Capture & Use - Rain Barrel
- Site Planning & Design
Image: Abraham Sheppard
Infiltration planters are structures or containers with open bottoms to allow stormwater to slowly infiltrate into the ground. They contain a layer of gravel, soil, and vegetation. Stormwater runoff temporarily pools on top of the soil, and then slowly infiltrates through the planter into the ground. Infiltration planters come in many sizes and shapes, and are made of stone, concrete, brick, plastic lumber, or wood.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based site conditions, including infiltration rates. Infiltration planters are not recommended for soils that don’t drain well.
- Determine size and type of infiltration planter, planned landscaping, and irrigation needs.
- Create plans, if needed, and obtain permits, if needed.
- Select plants based on anticipated rainfall and drainage area feeding the planter box, and estimated retention time of water during infiltration (i.e. plants will need be able to survive partially submerged for periods of time).
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install and plant.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Plants and structural components should be inspected periodically. Proper drainage will be maintained by removing built-up sediment and clearing debris from inlet pipes and curb cuts.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, TreePeople , the Council for Watershed Health , LA Beautification Team, and the California Stormwater Quality Association.
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners that may provide funding for installation and proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
- TreePeople
- California Native Plant Society
- Theodore Payne Foundation
- Green Gardens Group
- North East Trees
- Los Angeles Beautification Team
- California Urban Water Conservation Council
RESOURCES
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Green Infrastructure (Rain Gardens and Planter Boxes)
- City of Los Angeles Standard Plan
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development Standards Manual (Page 3-3, E-77)
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Management Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual (Pages 3 and 15)
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Graywater Reuse
- Sanitary Sewer Mining for Wastewater Reuse
- Storm Drain Mining for Stormwater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Capture & Use - Cistern
- Capture & Use - Rain Barrel
- Site Planning & Design
Vegetated curb extensions, also called stormwater curb extensions, are landscaped areas within the parking zone of a street that capture stormwater runoff in a depressed planting bed. The landscaped area can be designed similar to a rain garden or vegetated swale, utilizing infiltration and evapotranspiration for stormwater management. Vegetated curb extensions can be used at a roadway intersection, midblock, or along the length or block of the roadway, and can be combined with pedestrian crosswalks to increase safety along a roadway.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based on street, traffic and site conditions.
- Determine size and type of curb extension/bump out, planned landscaping, and irrigation needs.
- Create plans and obtain necessary permits.
- Select plants based on anticipated rainfall and drainage area feeding the planting area, and estimated retention time of water during infiltration (i.e. plants will need be able to survive partially submerged for periods of time).
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install.
GOOD TO KNOW
- No regular maintenance is required other than routine landscape maintenance.
- Curb extensions can be located midblock or at intersections as "bulb-outs". Curb extensions located at pedestrian crossings reduce crossing distances and increase safety.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, local department of public works, the Council for Watershed Health, Living Streets LA, Water LA, the California Urban Water Conservation Council, and the California Stormwater Quality Association.
- Local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) can be valuable partners that may provide funding for installation and proper long-term care. BIDs for the City of Los Angeles can be located here.
- TreePeople
- California Native Plant Society
- Theodore Payne Foundation
- Green Gardens Group
- North East Trees
- Los Angeles Beautification Team
- California Urban Water Conservation Council
RESOURCES
- City of Los Angeles Standard Plan
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Green Streets
- National Association of City Transportation Officials, Urban Street Design Guide
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Private Drives and Traffic Calming Design Guidelines Manual, Standards Manual (Page 3, E-11, E-186)
- City of Los Angeles, Department of City Planning, Complete Streets Manual Development Best Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual (Page 4-7)
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Graywater Reuse
- Sanitary Sewer Mining for Wastewater Reuse
- Storm Drain Mining for Stormwater Reuse
- Water Efficient Irrigation Controls
- Water Efficient Irrigation
- Capture & Use - Cistern
- Capture & Use - Rain Barrel
- Site Planning & Design
Art that is experienced in the public realm as a temporary or permanent installation or in an event-based format.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Many local jurisdictions have public art programs that have commissioned a wide range of artworks throughout Los Angeles County. Each has different processes, budgets and timelines.
PARTNERSHIPS
- Local municipalities
- Arts non-profits
- Business/neighborhood organizations
FUNDING SOURCES
- Funding Sources for Public Art (Project for Public Spaces)
- ArtPlace National Grants Program
- LA City Department of Cultural Affairs Grant Program
EXAMPLES
- "Urban Lab: Chantilly Clad", was a temporary public art project installed in a vacant lot in downtown Long Beach .5 miles from Downtown Long Beach Station. Designed and fabricated by artist collective, greenmeme, the project served as a public artwork, performance space and front porch for the community. See LB Post and Forecast Public Art and ArtsLB.
- With funding through the City of Pasadena Art and Cultural Affairs Division , artists Jill Newman and Bari Ziperstein installed a temporary sculpture, " This House Has a Bright Future ", in a once vacant lot occupied by Pasadena-based arts organization Side Street Projects. The site-specific artwork paid homage to the structures that inhabit(ed) the past, present and future of the lot. The art project was located 1 mile from the Memorial Park Station.
- In partnership with the Music Center and local artist-run organization, Machine Project, artist Elana Mann and facilitator Camilo Cruz led informal discussions with Los Angeles County and City employees over the course of one month in May 2014. The project was called “Grand Rounds.” Conversations centered on the different voices, ears, and roles both public officials and citizens use to listen to the public and invigorate communities. Mann designed a series of temporary artworks in response to the dialogue and installed them in Grand Park one block from the Civic Center Station.
- Artist collective Fallen Fruit’s groundbreaking global-scale public art project, "Endless Orchard ", was piloted in 2014 with the MacArthur Park Urban Fruit Trail just adjacent to the MacArthur Park Station. "Endless Orchard" will provide urban communities with public walking trails lined by fruit trees. The trees will be planted, sustained, nurtured and harvested by the public. Fallen Fruit’s art practice engages community, public space and issues of health and access through the lens of fruit.
RESOURCES
General:
Murals:
“Renewable Energy Art”:
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Recycled Materials
- Shade
- Solar Amenities
- Wind Generator
- Pop-Up Music
- Block Party
- Arts / Culture Tour
- Open Street Event
- Community Festival
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Holiday Event
- Charging Station
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
- Underpass Activation
Pavements with a base that allow the movement of stormwater through the surface to reduce runoff and and filter pollutants from the water.
ACTIONS
- Determine suitable location based on soil permeability, planned and existing structures and landscape features, such as trees.
- Determine type of permeable pavement.
- Create construction plans and obtain permits, if needed.
- Buy materials and supplies based on plans.
- Install.
GOOD TO KNOW
- Some preventative maintenance is required for continued infiltration, such as eliminating potential sources of sediment and cleaning sediment that does accumulate. Infiltration rates should be observed during rainfall events.
PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING SOURCES
- Possible partners include local residents, TreePeople, the Council for Watershed Health, California Stormwater Quality Association and the California Asphalt Pavement Association.
RESOURCES
- City of Los Angeles, Stormwater Program, Permeable Pavements
- California Department of Transportation, LID Permeable Pavement
- California Stormwater Quality Association, Pervious Pavements
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Porous Asphalt Pavement
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Pervious Concrete Pavement
- County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Low Impact Development, Standards Manual (Pages 7-4, 7-5, E-41, E-186)
- City of Los Angeles, Development Best Practices Handbook, Low Impact Development Manual (Pages 15, 33, and 34)
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Kinetic Paving
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Capture & Use - Cistern
- Capture & Use - Rain Barrel
- Site Planning & Design
Art, architecture, food, history, and other arts-related or cultural-related tours adjacent to transit that are educational and fun ways to experience and learn about a place's cultural asset.
EXAMPLES & RESOURCES
- Metro Art Tours
- LA Commons
- Machine Project
- Laundromat Project
- Los Angeles Conservancy
- deLaB (Design East of La Brea)
- LA Urban Rangers
- RideArc
- DoArt Foundation
- ArtMuse LA
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Garden
- Green Alley
- Open Street Event
- Community Festival
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Holiday Event
- Live Music / Performance
- Public Art
- Parklet
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Signage/Wayfinding
A temporary food market where local farmers and vendors sell directly to consumers, often including entertainment, food and drinks, and other activities.
GOOD TO KNOW
-
There are five basics to starting a Farmers Market in the Los Angeles region (adapted from Southland Farmers Market Association):
-
A market operator
- A certified farmers’ market operator must be a nonprofit organization, a local government agency, or a farmer. Market Operators are responsible for all aspects of running the market including compliance with State, County and Local regulatory requirements, legal and financial liability, staffing, etc.
-
Broad community support
- Recruit a hard-working core of volunteers to plan and operate long-term.
-
A suitable market site
-
When analyzing sites for your market, consider:
- What is the image of the location – is it a public space welcome customers, is it attractive and safe?
- Are there other farmers markets operating in the area that would compete with your market?
- Are there commercial markets that offer similar kinds of produce in the area? Are there good roadside stands, quality small markets, or mobile produce vendors?
- What day of the week and likely market hours would work best at this location?
-
When analyzing sites for your market, consider:
-
Adequate Start-up Funding
- Markets have been successfully started with as little as $2,000 and as much as $150,000
-
Recruiting growers
- You may recruit farmers in one of two ways. First, visit markets in your area and get to know the growers who are participating in these markets. You may discreetly recruit growers at these markets as long as your market is not in direct competition with the market. A better way of identifying growers to participate in your market is to work with an existing organization to help select the farmers that would work best in your market. Take the time to recruit growers carefully to be sure they support purposes of the market.
-
A market operator
PARTNERSHIPS
- Southland Farmers’ Market Association
- Farmers Market Coalition
- LA County Department of Public Health Environmental Health
FUNDING SOURCES
- List of funding opportunities for farmers markets
- USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP)
- USDA Community Food Projects Grant Program
- USDA Farmers Market SNAP Support Grants
RESOURCES
- Starting a New Farmers Market guidebook
- Farmers Market Coalition
- Santa Monica “Rules, Regulation and Policy Guide”
- LA County Department of Public Health
- California Retail Food Code
- County of Los Angeles “Community Event Temporary Food Facility Application”
- LA County Health Code Requirements for Community Events
- Go Metro to Farmers Markets
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Green Alley
- Shade
- Block Party
- Open Street Event
- Community Festival
- Live Music / Performance
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
Open Street events are temporary one-day events that close the streets to automotive traffic and open them to people to walk, bike and roll.
ACTIONS
-
Choose a desired site, addressing several factors including:
- What kind of event is it?
- How much space does it need?
- What kinds of events are planned?
- Will there be vendors? Food? Alcohol?
- Does the site support the essential needs for electricity, water, shelter and safety?
- Are there public facilities available?
- Is the site easily accessible using various travel modes?
- Most cities will require a Special Event Permit for events held in the public right of way. Acquire necessary permits and pay fees depending on municipality (see resources library for some examples). Permits needed might include special event, food and alcohol, building safety, and fire department. Proof of insurance is also a usual requirement.
- Ensure that procedures for proper cleanup are in place. Sometimes the group hosting the event is solely responsible, while other times cleanup will be sponsored by the relevant street maintenance department.
GOOD TO KNOW
- A UCLA study show 10% sales increases for businesses during open streets events
RESOURCES
- Beach Streets Presented by the City of Long Beach
- Open Streets Project
- CicLAvia
- San Francisco Sunday Streets
- New York City: Summer Streets
- San Diego: CicloSDias
COMPATIBLE TOOLS
- Community Festival
- Blood Drive / Health Screening
- Pop-Up Music
- Arts/Culture Tour
- Farmers Market
- Pop-Up Exhibit
- Flash Mob
- Holiday Event
- Live Music / Performance
- Public Art
- Pop-Up Retail
- Temporary Pedestrian Plaza
- Street Furniture
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