Last May, we told you about the North Atwater Crossing Project, a new, multi-modal 21st century bridge being planned connecting Griffith Park to Atwater Village.

Now, the city is moving forward with the almost twenty-year project by calling for public comment on the proposed project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act. The initial study outlines the possible environmental effects of building a steel, cable-stayed bridge 325 feet long and 35 feet wide across the Los Angeles River.

The bridge would have two lanes, one for equestrian use and another for pedestrians and cyclists. No motorized vehicles will be allowed over the bridge. The pathways would be separated by a continuous structural beam that spans from one end of the bank to the other. Attached to the beam is a 140-foot tall pylon used to support the bridge deck with cables.

As outlined in the document, construction may have short-term impacts on the river environment due to removal of riparian vegetation. However, the city plans to restore the disturbed areas by re-planting native grasses and plants. It would also give the city a chance to mitigate the effects of invasive plant species currently found in that part of the river. In the long-run, constructing the bridge may also benefit the river due to decreased foot (and horse) traffic that would trample the native vegetation in order to cross the river. It also means increased safety for equestrians who often have to negotiate the slippery path to and from Griffith Park.

Comments must be received in writing by December 28, 2012. Read the report and submission details on the City of Los Angeles Bureau of engineering website.