Baldwin Lake project gets a christening in Arcadia to restore ‘ecological heart’

Los Angeles County broke ground Wednesday, Sept. 2, on a $63.7 million restoration of Baldwin Lake, what leaders say is “the ecological and cultural heart of the L.A. County Arboretum & Botanic Garden. “

County officials said the project—a team-up between Los Angeles County Public Works, the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, and the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation—will restore the lake to its historic depth, improving water quality and habitat for resident and migratory wildlife.

Wednesday’s event, which included local and county leaders, marked the culmination of more than a decade of community advocacy and public investment, officials said.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said the project was an investment that “will protect a place that is part of the identity of the San Gabriel Valley and ensure it thrives for generations to come.

“We are investing in cleaner water, greater flood resilience, environmental restoration, and the long-term future of the Arboretum. After years of careful planning and partnership, today we are turning that commitment into action.”

The goal is to restore the lake to its historic depth, ultimately improving water quality, enhancing wildlife habitat, and preserving the ecosystem.

That ecosystem includes migratory bird species, and a robust diversity footprint.

Officials said construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Funding sources included $8 million from the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, $8.5 million from the Safe Clean Water Regional Program, $46.2 million from the Safe Clean Water District Program, and $1 million from the Regional Park and Open Space District’s Proposition A Program.