The Pico Rivera Sports Arena and other community venues in the area are at risk of shutting down due to repair work that needs to be done on the Whittier Narrows Dam. Amber Frias reports for the NBC4 News on April 30, 2024.
The Pico Rivera Sports Arena and other community venues could disappear due to repair work on the Whittier Narrows Dam, city officials announced Tuesday.
According to the Army Corps of Engineers, the dam needs repairs to prevent critical flooding. These works would impact the iconic sports stadium, the only golf course in Pico Rivera and Streamland Park.
Pico Rivera authorities estimate that these closures will affect the economy of the city and its surroundings, with losses of income and jobs.
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The Pico Rivera Sports Arena was opened in 1979. Since its opening, it has been the site of concerts, rodeos, including Mexican charreadas, and other cultural events for the Hispanic community of Los Angeles County.
In addition to this sports complex, the closure of Streamland Park would result in the elimination of the youth baseball program that has operated for 68 years, known as the Pico Boys Baseball League.
“As we face the potential loss of valuable community assets due to the Whittier Narrows Dam Safety Modification Project, we are reminded of the resilience and strength of Pico Rivera,” said Pico Rivera Mayor Andrew Lara.
To offset these potential losses, the city has launched a $125 million revitalization program that includes the creation of new parks, open spaces and sports facilities.
“Through our revitalization program and ongoing efforts to secure funding, we aim to mitigate these losses and take advantage of new opportunities for growth and development,” Lara said.
