Park Sites

Re “Parks Offer Is One Cities Can Refuse--So Far,” Jan. 13: L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks did, in fact, take over Pan Pacific Park (mid-Wilshire area) from L.A. County Parks and Recreation.

As a result of creativity and cooperation among the neighbors, Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, L.A. Council President John Ferraro, and led by the L.A. Mayor Richard Riordan, our fine department will soon make major physical improvements and add recreation and seniors programs in this great urban setting.

Our commission has never been approached about Jesse Owens Park, but we are anxious to have a look and, with similar creativity and cooperation, figure out a way.

I would encourage the other host municipalities to do the same, as there is too much social downside in closing any of the rare parks that, when efficiently utilized and respected, give us so much in return.

STEVEN SOBOROFF

President

Recreation and Parks Commission

Los Angeles