SOUTH LOS ANGELES (CNS) — A vacant lot in South Los Angeles is being transformed into a 20,000-square-foot park, and city leaders Saturday are unveiling plans for the public space.

Los Angeles City Councilman Curren D. Price, Jr. and President of the Board of Water and Power Commissioners Cynthia McClain-Hill said they are announcing a partnership to build the new park that will be named after late California Sen. Bill Greene.

Greene served as Democratic member of the California State Assembly and the California State Senate, representing South Los Angeles for more than 25 years.

 

"Greene spent his life fighting for equality and social justice," according to a statement from Price's office. "He established himself as a true champion for the people and gave his best in serving the residents of South Los Angeles."

The site at 5800 South Figueroa St. near Slauson Avenue was formerly the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power's Figueroa Pump station, a part of LADWP's drinking water system. The station was taken out of service in 1959 and demolished.

Saturday's unveiling of the park plans will include renderings and opportunities for community input. There also will be complimentary water from LADWP and ice cream bars and refreshments from Council District 9, which Price represents.

"The now vacant lot provides new recreational opportunities for youth and families in a community that lacks green space," according to Price's office.