Plans for New Arroyo Vision Initiated

Pasadena city staff has released an informational agenda report for the January 30th City Council meeting that outlines their approach to explore the new Arroyo Vision that Mayor Terry Tornek has called for in several recent statements, including his State of the City Address on January 18. The report discloses that a national consulting firm, HR&A, has been engaged to assist Pasadena staff for a six month process to investigate ways to better manage the Arroyo and develop financial support for improvements. City Manager Steve Mermell and Rose Bowl General Manager Darrell Dunn have also appointed an advisory group of sixteen local residents to assist them.

ASF is cautiously optimistic about Mayor Tornek's call for a new Arroyo Vision, but the staff report leaves us concerned about the structure and policy direction of the effort. With only a few exceptions, the advisory group does not include the many community activists and organizations who have been dedicated to preserving the Arroyo over the years. These are the people who know the sad history of empty promises and unfulfilled plans. The report fails to acknowledge the critical role and contribution of organizations like the Arroyo Seco Foundation, which has developed more than $23 million in funding for Arroyo projects over the last 25 years. While the staff report mentions that the Arroyo is "the City's most precious and distinctive natural resource," it doesn't place any emphasis on managing the Arroyo as the environmental treasure that it is.

How You Can Get Involved - ASF wants to ensure that the shaping of the new Arroyo vision will be guided by history and community involvement. If you would like to participate in making sure this happens, please send us an email at arroyovision@arroyoseco.org.

Pasadena Staff Report: Arroyo Vision