Rory M. Shaw Wetlands Park Project

The Rory M. Shaw Wetlands Park Project (In dedication to City of Los Angeles engineer, Rory M. Shaw) is a collaborative initiative by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District (District), the City of Los Angeles, and the Sun Valley Watershed Stakeholders Group. This project aims to address flood risk, reduce stormwater pollution, and increase water conservation, recreational opportunities, and wildlife habitat. This will be achieved by converting a 46-acre engineered, inert landfill into a multi-purpose wetlands park.

The park will feature a 21-acre detention pond with the capacity to hold runoff collected from the upstream tributary area. The captured stormwater in the detention pond will then enter a 10-acre wetland that will act as a natural water treatment system by removing pollutants from the stormwater runoff. In addition, the wetlands will form a sustainable habitat for various plant and animal species. Finally, the treated stormwater will be pumped to the existing Sun Valley Park infiltration basins for groundwater recharge.

Sun Valley community currently lacks recreational opportunities. The Rory M. Shaw Wetlands Park Project meets this need by creating approximately 15 acres of open space and community amenities.

A new 4.75 mile long storm drain system will be constructed as part of a separate project (Sun Valley Upper Storm Drain Project) to capture and convey runoff from the upper portion of the watershed and deliver it to the detention pond. The storm drain system is proposed along Glenoaks Blvd, San Fernando Road, Tuxford Street, and Tujunga Avenue.

The next phase of the Rory M. Shaw Wetlands Park Project involves overexcavation and grading of the site, which is expected to take four years to compete. Due to the complexity of the Project and significant construction cost based on current estimates, the construction of the Project has been delayed. While these factors have prolonged its completion, the District is committed to moving the Project forward. In the meantime, the District continues to implement interim measures to enhance site security, maintenance, and aesthetics. These efforts aim to ensure that the site remains safe and visually pleasing as the District continues to work towards securing the necessary funding to complete this transformative project. The District appreciates the community’s patience and support as it strives to bring these vital improvements to Sun Valley.