TITLE
Recommendation to conduct a public hearing on the proposed amendment to the General Plan and re-zoning of 21 parcels located at 1401 Chestnut Avenue for the purpose of allowing the development of a new public park; and receive supporting documentation into the record, conclude the hearing, and adopt resolution amending the General Plan from Land Use District No.10 (High Density Residential) to Land Use District No. 11 (Open Space/Parks); and
DISCUSSION
The project calls for the construction of a new neighborhood park in an area of the city that currently lacks open space. The project includes the consolidation of 21 parcels totaling 1.92 acres, the vacation of an alley directly in the middle of the property, the demolition of three 3-unit apartment buildings, and the construction of a new neighborhood serving park. Park amenities will include a small playground, a soccer field, a large open turf area, picnic tables, shade canopies and a paved walking path. Fencing is proposed around the perimeter of the park at the request of the community to prevent loitering and vandalism, and the fencing will allow the park to be closed to the public after dark (Exhibit A - Plans).
With respect to parking, the plan proposes to utilize eight existing on-site parking spaces. In addition, a lease or agreement will be made with the County of Los Angeles for shared use parking of the adjacent health department lot. A total of 23 on-street parking spaces may also be available to visitors. Staff believes this arrangement is appropriate since the park is designed to serve nearby residents.
On March 20, 2008, the Planning Commission approved the general plan amendment, rezoning, site plan review, general plan conformity finding, standards variance, lot merger and certified Negative Declaration 08-03.
This letter was reviewed by Assistant City Attorney Michael Mais on April 18, 2008 and by Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on April 23, 2008.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
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