The designation repurposes public infrastructure, such as Compton Creek, Emerald Necklace, and Lower LA River, into regional linear parks
Los Angeles County has introduced a new parkland classification called Urban Natureways, aimed at converting underutilized flood control channels and utility corridors into multifunctional greenways, following a motion passed by the Board of Supervisors.
The initiative in the county seeks to enhance ecological restoration, climate resilience, and equitable access to green spaces by integrating community-driven visions into the county’s General Plan.
The Urban Natureways designation will repurpose public infrastructure, such as Compton Creek, Emerald Necklace, Lower LA River, and Pacoima Wash, into regional linear parks. These spaces are intended to provide recreation, active transportation, and habitat restoration while fostering biodiversity and social equity. The county’s Department of Parks and Recreation will lead the effort, streamlining planning, permitting, and maintenance, with a focus on collaboration with community-based organizations like ActiveSGV, Pacoima Beautiful, Willowbrook Inclusion Network, Conservation Corps Long Beach, and Nature for All.
The initiative draws inspiration from projects like the Atlanta BeltLine, a 22-mile repurposed rail corridor that connects 45 neighborhoods with trails, parks, and ecological features. In Los Angeles, Urban Natureways aim to link communities, reduce traffic-related injuries through protected walking and cycling paths, and create green job opportunities through partnerships with local organizations. A proposed Countywide Urban Natureway Marketplace will support small businesses and workforce development, emphasizing long-term community stewardship.
The motion directs county departments to amend the General Plan to formalize the Urban Natureways classification, adopt the named corridors into the Regional Trail Network, and establish an interagency working group with Metro, local jurisdictions, and community partners to ensure inclusive planning. The county will also pursue state, federal, and philanthropic funding, including opportunities from Proposition 4, approved by California voters in 2024, to support project implementation and operations.
Within 90 days, the Department of Parks and Recreation will convene conservancy partners, including the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy, to explore funding.
A progress report, covering General Plan amendments, interagency coordination, and plans for the Urban Natureway Marketplace, is due to the Board of Supervisors within 180 days.
