$40 million stormwater improvement project coming to MacArthur Park

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- One of Los Angeles' most iconic parks is getting a major boost.

On Wednesday, the city unveiled a $40 million plan to transform MacArthur Park, focusing on cleaner water and a greener future.

Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez said the project will change how the park's lake operates, which will move away from drinking water and toward capturing and reusing stormwater.

"It's about transforming how we care for this space, capturing, treating, and reusing storm water to improve water quality, reduce pollution and create a cleaner healthier environment for the thousands of families who rely on this park every single day," she said.

That means less pollution flowing into Ballona Creek and Santa Monica Bay, and less reliance on drinking water. However, it's not just about what's underground.

"This project is not just about water quality, it's about what this community is owed," said Board of Public Works Commissioner John Grant. "A cascading water feature, a bridge, trees, educational signage in English and Español, a park that looks like it belongs to the people that live here."

City leaders said it builds on more than $27 million already spent to improve safety and community programs the park. Construction is expected to begin this fall.