PROJECT TITLE: Bethune Park Improvements Project

PROJECT LOCATION:

Mary M. Bethune Park (Florence-Firestone)
1244 E. 61st St.
Los Angeles, CA 90001

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The proposed improvements to Mary M. Bethune Park include the following:

  • Conversion of the 12,050-square-foot existing asphalt parking lot into permeable asphalt, to allow water to drain through the soil to the aquifer and to prevent parking lot stormwater from leaving the site.
  • The planting of approximately 26 trees to increase shade cover around the ballfield and the children’s play areas.
  • Removal of approximately 19,110-square foot turf and irrigation around the back of the ballfield. The area will be replaced with mulch.
  • The addition of seven (7) security lights around the back of the ballfield in order to provide security lighting for the new walking loop.
  • Addition of 350 linear feet of 8 feet wide stabilized decomposed granite walking path to complete a walking loop around the ballfield.
  • Addition of a 3,950-square foot demonstration garden with stabilized decomposed granite walking paths, benches, and interpretive signage.
  • Replacement of the existing controllers with a smart irrigation controller to help to conserve water.
  • Removal of approximately 13,230-square foot turf to be replaced with drought-tolerant plant materials.

PROJECT APPLICANT: County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Jui Ing Chien
Park Planner
626-588-5317
jchien@parks.lacounty.gov

EXEMPT STATUS: Categorical Exemption

TYPE, SECTION OR CODE:

Categorical Sections 15302 (c), 15303 (e) and 15304 (a)(b)
County CEQA Guidelines Categorical Exemption Classes 2(e), 3 (b) and 4(a)(c)

REASONS FOR EXEMPTION:

The proposed project is categorically exempt under CEQA according to sections 15302 (c), 15303 (e) and 15304 (a)(b) of the State CEQA Guidelines and Classes 2(e), 3 (b), and 4(a)(c) of the County’s Environmental Document Reporting Procedures and Guidelines, Appendix G.  The project provides for replacement of existing facilities involving negligible or no expansion of capacity, installation of small new facilities and minor alterations to land.

In addition, based on the proposed project records, it will comply with all applicable regulations, and it is not in a sensitive environment, and there are no cumulative impacts, unusual circumstances, damage to scenic highways, listing on hazardous waste site lists compiled pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5, or indications that it may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource that would make the exemption inapplicable.

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