Councilmember Tom LaBonge and LADWP Celebrate the Reopening of the Lake Hollywood Walking Trail

Destroyed by Landslide in 2005, the Full Trail Now Open for Public Use

“The story of Los Angeles is the story of water. Lake Hollywood Reservoir, which is nearly 90 years old, is a local landmark” Councilmember LaBonge said. “I am excited to reopen this amenity, which will encourage outdoor fitness and public health.”

Closed since 2005 after a record-breaking 35 inches of rain caused landslides that destroyed the perimeter trail and did extensive damage to both LADWP and private property, repair and restoration efforts were slow and deliberate. The process involved the installation of large caissons up to 5 feet in diameter more 40 feet below the ground surface and the removal of over 300,000 cubic yards of soil. In order to access the limited work area, agreements were signed with area homeowners so crews could work on the restoration efforts for the hillsides as well as the trail

Today’s gathering commemorated the return of the western half of the trail to public use; the eastern half was reopened in 2009.

The $9.5 million project received financial support from the National Resources Conservation Service and the Office of United States Senator Dianne Feinstein.

Since its construction in 1924, the Hollywood Reservoir and its perimeter trail have been a popular destination for Los Angeles residents and visitors. The Lake Hollywood Walking Trail is open every day for walkers, joggers and bicyclists. Dogs, alcohol and motorized vehicles are not permitted. The trails opens every day at 6:30 a.m. and close between 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., depending upon the season. Hours and rules are posted at the trail entrance.

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