In a series of resolutions and endorsements, the Venice Neighborhood Council (VNC) approved the addition of thirty (30) automated car lifts at the Windward Circle while endorsing the appointment of a full-time superintendent to manage and operate Venice Beach, as well as calling for the County of Los Angeles to illuminate and widen the popular bike path along the ocean.
At the surface parking lot located at 29-47 Windward, the VNC approved the addition of 30 automated/hydraulic car lifts which will increase parking capacity from 38 to 68 spaces. There was widespread support to bring additional parking to the beach.
“The most important issue facing Venice is parking and, tonight, we helped alleviate the lack of parking right at the Windward Circle,” offered President Mike Newhouse. “This kind of nuts and bolts problem-solving is at the heart of why we have grass roots representation here in Los Angeles with neighborhood councils.”
The Board took the added step of endorsing Councilman Mike Bonin’s initiative to have a superintendent appointed in charge of the day-to-day operations of Venice Beach.
The VNC is asking Mayor Eric Garcetti to set aside specific line item funding in the 2015-16 Municipal Budget, to ensure that a highly qualified individual be hired to manage one of California’s premier tourist destinations.
“I support Councilman Bonin’s efforts to streamline the management and operation of Venice Beach. We need someone in charge, and that funding should be part of the 2015-16 budget discussion,” offered President Mike Newhouse.
The VNC also took the step of seeking illumination of the Venice Bike Path along with widening this popular access for bicyclists here in this urban beach enclave.
“To get people out of their cars, we need a renovated and reliable bike path for locals and tourists alike. This is the first step in such a process,” noted Board member Melissa Diner, who chairs the Oceanfront Walk Committee.
In other VNC business, the Board heard a presentation from the Mass, Scale and Character Committee, as well as an update on the upcoming Green Venice Expo Town Hall scheduled for February 28th from noon till 6pm. Sponsored by WHOLE FOODS of Venice located on Lincoln Boulevard, the event will be held at the Mark Twain Middle School at 2224 Walgrove Avenue, Venice. Green Activist and actor Ed Begley, Jr., will serve as the Expo’s keynote speaker.
The event is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend.
For more information about the Venice Neighborhood Council, visit us online at www.VeniceNC.org.
Courtesy of Nick Antonicello
