Crews recently started the installation of a steel fence and two gates around the perimeter of Barnsdall Art Park in Hollywood to better secure the property.

(photo courtesy of the 13th Council District Office)

The project is a collaboration between Los Angeles City Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, 13th District, the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and the Barnsdall Art Park Foundation. It follows meetings with members of the community, city staff and representatives of the Barnsdall Art Park Foundation.

Concerns surfaced at the meetings about an increase in graffiti and vandalism, inadequate security and a need for general beautification efforts at Barnsdall Arts Park. The improvements will prevent people from entering unnoticed and will allow park security officers to keep the area secure at night.

“My staff and I have worked on a plan since taking office to keep the park secure after hours and improve the overall visitor experience, “O’Farrell said. “The latest project is just one of the ways we are working to enhance, preserve and protect one of our great city parks. I am focused on bringing Barnsdall back to its intended grandeur.”

In addition to the new fencing, the work will including rolling gates at the street level parking lot on Hollywood Boulevard to allow for better traffic flow. In partnership with the Barnsdall Art Park Foundation, O’Farrell is looking into funding more security measures and revitalizing the currently inaccessible Schindler’s Terrace.

Barnsdall Art Park is a city-owned facility near Vermont Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard. It includes an art gallery and the famed Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Hollyhock House, which recently underwent a $4 million renovation. The house’s former garage is being converted into a bookstore, and the motor court will be restored in the coming months. For information, visit www.cd13.com.