Pasadena Public Works Dept. to hold meeting on bird sanctuary renovation

Pasadena Public Works Department will host a community meeting Saturday, Jan. 17, at 10 a.m. regarding the proposed renovation of the only bird sanctuary in Lower Arroyo Seco Natural Park.

Set for spring, the renovation project will preserve the existing bird sanctuary and rest spot built in 1935 that overlooks Lower Arroyo Seco.

The bird sanctuary was constructed in honor of Emma Dickinson, a bird lover who donated a portion of her estate to the city.

The renovation project has two components: replacement of a broken storm drain on the slope; and completion of other park improvements including a restored central fountain, repair of the seating area, a new trellis, densely planting the terrace below to help reduce vandal problems, low-level lighting in planters, curb cuts to allow cyclists access for a rest stop and retention of existing trees.

Funding is provided by the 1992 Proposition A Los Angeles County Park Bond, a city storm drain replacement fund and an environmental enhancement mitigation grant.

The meeting will be at the bird sanctuary, just south of the Lower Arroyo Natural Park entrance (across the street from 436 S. Arroyo Blvd.). Parking is available in the lot below, at La Casita del Arroyo or on side streets off of South Arroyo Boulevard. In the event of rain, the meeting will be held at La Casita del Arroyo, 177 S. Arroyo Blvd.

For more information call (626) 744-3883. The staff report and preliminary drawings can be viewed at www.cityofpasadena.net/publicworks/PNR/ArroyoSeco/.