Repair work on the Whittier Narrows Dam could eliminate the Pico Rivera Sports Arena and other community facilities, city officials announced Tuesday.
The Army Corps of Engineers says repairs to the dam are needed to prevent significant flooding. These works will impact Pico Rivera's only golf course, the iconic sports stadium and Streamland Park.
Pico Rivera authorities estimate that these closures will involve loss of income and jobs, impacting the economy of the city and its surrounding area.
Pico Rivera Sports Arena opened in 1979. Since its opening, it has hosted concerts, rodeos, including the Mexican Charulida, and other cultural events for Los Angeles County's Hispanic community.
In addition to the sports complex, the closure of Streamland Park will also eliminate the 68-year-old youth baseball program known as the Pico Boys Baseball League.
“As we face the potential loss of a valuable regional asset due to the Whittier Narrows Dam safety improvement project, we are proud to support Pico Rivera’s resilience,” said Pico Rivera Mayor Andrew Lara. “It reminds me of strength,” he said.
To compensate for these potential losses, the city has launched a $125 million revitalization program that includes the creation of new parks, open space, and sports facilities.
“Through our regeneration program and continued efforts to secure funding, we aim to mitigate these losses and take advantage of new opportunities for growth and development,” Lara said.
