Transforming the LA River: From Concrete Channel to Natural Waterway

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The chapter delves into the history of the Los Angeles River, from its concrete sealing in 1938 to becoming a potential protected waterway. It discusses grassroots activism, whistleblower actions, and a kayaking stunt that contributed to the river's restoration and renewed environmental protections. Despite progress, challenges persist in balancing environmental concerns and urban development for the river's future.

When you hear the word "river," you probably picture a majestic body of water flowing through a natural habitat. Well, the LA River looks nothing like that. Most people who see it probably mistake it for a giant storm drain. It's a deep trapezoidal channel with steep concrete walls, and a flat concrete bottom. Los Angeles was founded around this river. But decades ago it was confined in concrete so that, for better or worse, the city could become the sprawling metropolis that it is today. All these years later the county is still grappling with the consequences of those actions.

Reported by Gillian Jacobs, guest hosted by 99PI producer, Vivian Le.

A River Runs Through Los Angeles

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