Riding on the River: A Video Capsule From the Bike Path
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.
As part of the April 27th River Bike + Walk Spectacular, the NELA RC organized a group bike ride that started at Marsh Park in Elysian Valley, traveled along the L.A. River bike path, and crossed the Sunnynook pedestrian bridge into Atwater Village, passing by local businesses on Glendale Blvd. and then returning to Marsh Park for a community fair and outdoor movie screening. GoPro Hero cameras were worn by two bicyclists to show the world the 180 degree views of the path and the result is a visceral video experience that makes you feel as if you were on the bikes yourself.
The NELA RC partnered with Multicultural Communities for Mobility who served as marshals for the entire ride. This included the group giving a bike safety workshop before the ride and the ushering of the group safely on the path and local streets.
Additionally, after crossing the Sunnynook pedestrian bridge, the group parked their bikes and came down to the river banks to hear about local river history and recent revitalization from former L.A. River ad-hoc committee policy director, Lupe Vela.
Participants were also recruited to submit live stories and pictures that they could map via texts on their mobile phones. For a look, you can take a peek at the mylariver group on the mobile mapping vojo platform the group used.
The NELA RC plans to organize more policy-oriented and fun events along the river and the surrounding northeast neighborhoods. The events are all part of an effort to explore the idea of a potential Northeast Los Angeles Riverfront District. Stay tuned for updates at the NELA RC website mylariver.org.
Video Credits:
Camera
George Villanueva
Henry T. Cram
Editor
Alvaro Parra
Music
Anitek-"Welcome"