NORTH GAFFEY STREET, SAN PEDRO, UNDERGOES MAJOR MAKEOVER BY
THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES

Beautification Project Creates Scenic Parkway for Pedestrians and Cyclists

SAN PEDRO, Calif. — June 20, 2009 — City officials and community members today celebrated the Port of Los Angeles’ completion of the first phase of a $5.2 million beautification initiative that transforms the east side of North Gaffey Street into a scenic and recreational community asset. Initiated in March 2006 as the first phase of the North Gaffey Beautification Project, the enhancement covers approximately a half-mile long strip of roadside area along the east side of North Gaffey between Gatun Street and Westmont Drive.  The new parkway and greenbelt includes trees, shrubs, a meandering walkway, park benches, picnic tables, sun shelters, drinking fountains and evening lighting. 

“The project enhances the entire roadway,” said Port Executive Director Geraldine Knatz, Ph.D.  “By working closely with the Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council and Chevron, which owns part of the property, we’ve been able to create a lovely walkway that makes people want to go out and stroll or bike along North Gaffey.” 

This project shows what can be accomplished when the Port and Neighborhood Councils work together,” added Diana Nave a past president of the Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council and one of several local residents who supported the project from its inception.  “It’s a great community enhancement and it’s already being enjoyed by cyclists and walkers alike!” 

The North Gaffey Street Beautification Project was one of the first China Shipping mitigation proposals approved by the Board of Harbor Commissioners. The project was funded through the Port’s Aesthetic Mitigation Fund, which was created as part of the China Shipping Amended Stipulated Judgment settled in 2003.  When the project is completed, it will extend nearly a mile, from the intersection of Channel Street and Pacific Avenue on the south end, to North Gaffey Street and Westmont Drive on the north end.

The Port of Los Angeles, also known as “America’s Port,” has a strong commitment to developing innovative strategic and sustainable operations that benefit the economy and the quality of life for the region and the nation it serves. A recipient of numerous environmental awards, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2007 Clean Air Excellence Award, the Port of Los Angeles is committed to innovating cleaner, greener ways of doing business. As the leading seaport in North America in terms of shipping container volume and cargo value, the Port generates 919,000 regional jobs and $39.1 billion in annual wages and tax revenues. A proprietary department of the City of Los Angeles, the Port is self-supporting and does not receive taxpayer dollars. The Port of Los Angeles - A cleaner port. A brighter future.