Elysian Valley Community Comes Out for L.A. River Bike and Walk Event

The NELA River Collaborative project builds upon the growing momentum of efforts already underway to transform the Los Angeles River into a "riverfront district" and to create a focal point of community revitalization. For more information visit www.mylariver.orgKCET Departures is the media partner of the Northeast Los Angeles Riverfront Collaborative.Between the thundering roar of the 5 freeway and the serene Los Angeles River lies the neighborhood of Elysian Valley. Home to roughly 8,000 residents, this community has the distinction of having the L.A. River as its own backyard and playground. This section of the river is known as Glendale Narrows, one of the few natural, soft bottomed sections of the river, and home to many species of ducks, mallards, and herons. The L.A. River Greenway Trail, part of the National Recreation Trails program, runs along the winding eastern edge of the neighborhood, dotted with pocket parks.

Marsh Park, located near the north edge of the neighborhood, came alive last Saturday with an event that brought the community together. Hosted by the Northeast L.A. Riverfront Collaborative, the event attracted local residents, bikers, walkers, visitors, curious onlookers, and community organizations, with a bike ride and a walk, educational activities related to the L.A. River, a bike-powered music station, local food vendors, and more, culminating with a free outdoor screening of the cult-favorite "Beetlejuice," with the river serving as backdrop.

KCET Departures was there with the StoryShare video crew, capturing the memories and stories of the L.A. River, along with responses to questions on what the L.A. River could be. The videos will be available for viewing in the upcoming weeks.

For now, here are some photos to give you an idea of the great energy that flowed through the park. Stay tuned for more events like this along the L.A. River in Northeast Los Angeles.

Photos by Yosuke Kitazawa and Justin Cram