Dennis RomeroSee also: Grand Opening of the New L.A. River Recreation Zone.
For the first time ever — well, not really ever, but almost — the Los Angeles River will be open to kayakers and fishermen (and women). This new era of openness starts Monday, Memorial Day, and lasts through Labor Day.
This welcome mat applies to a 2.5 mile stretch of the river near downtown:
The stretch is near Marsh Park, 2960 Marsh Street, in the Elysian Valley.
This kind of open access hasn't been seen since the river was “channelized” in the 1930s, according to organizers.
You are now allowed to boat, kayak, walk and fish. Just don't spray paint. (But we know at least a few of you will).
See also: L.A. River Really Floats Their Boats.
The public access through the traditional end of summer will be managed by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority.
Organizers say you can only go there from sunrise to sunset, unless you're homeless and live there (we kid!).
Credit: Ted Soqui for LA Weekly
Politicians, including state Sen. Kevin de Leon, state Assemblymember Jimmy Gomez, and L.A. city Councilman Ed Reyes, will celebrate the opening with a “first run” Monday morning at 10 a.m.
Be there.
[@dennisjromero / djromero@laweekly.com / @LAWeeklyNews]
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