One Arroyo Foundation Receives Lehman Award for Regional Park Support

One Arroyo Foundation has been awarded the Lehman Award for Regional Support by the National Association of Park Foundations for its efforts to preserve the Arroyo Seco in Pasadena. 

The award, presented on Thursday, Oct. 10, at the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Conference in Atlanta, recognizes park foundations that have made significant contributions to regional park initiatives through collaboration with various stakeholders, including cities, states, and corporations. 

Kenny James and Mel Alonzo from Pasadena’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services (PRCS) Department accepted the award on behalf of the foundation. 

The foundation’s Trail Critical Linkages Project played a crucial role in securing the recognition. This initiative addresses trail erosion and wear resulting from years of heavy use in the Arroyo Seco. 

The project aims to revitalize nearly 1,000 acres of urban forest and over 22 miles of potential trails, connecting three distinct areas to ensure the Arroyo Seco remains accessible for future generations. 

The project includes road crossings, footbridges, wayfinding, trail restoration, and planting native species to improve access and connectivity in the area.

“We are honored to receive the Lehman Award and grateful to the National Association of Park Foundations for this recognition,” Dan Rothenberg, One Arroyo Foundation’s President and CEO, said. “This award reflects the dedication of our partners, the City of Pasadena, and the many community members who have supported the project.” 

Last February, the foundation secured a $500,000 grant from California State Parks for the Trail Critical Linkages Project, part of a larger $6.7 million recommended by the state agency to the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreation Trails grant program. 

The grant will fund the restoration of approximately 3.5 miles of existing multi-use trails, including debris clearance, erosion control, and the creation of natural seating and learning areas. 

Garrett Crawford, Parks Superintendent for Pasadena, noted the competitive nature of the grant process, emphasizing the project’s selection as a testament to its potential impact on the community. 

The One Arroyo Foundation remains committed to advancing its mission of restoring the Arroyo Seco, with updates on the project available at www.onearroyo.org.