LOS ANGELES RIVER

The winding Los Angeles River offers a unique chance for the city to create a recreational field of dreams for our residents. In the last year, since I announced my intention of constructing bike paths, picnic areas and other recreational opportunities along the banks of the river, great progress has been made.

Unfortunately, a recent Los Angeles Times magazine column (“Greening the L.A. River,” by Harry Shearer, May 20) distorted the facts and attempted to ridicule our efforts. The column created particular confusion among readers by saying our plan would destroy the concrete at the bottom of the river that now serves as a flood-control channel. Make no mistake, I have never advocated the destruction of this concrete bed. In addition, I would oppose the use of the river in any way that would impede the vital flood protection that the channel currently provides. This does not preclude us, however, from pursuing a joint-use project, as has been done nationwide where flood-control systems are now developed as river walks, outdoor museums, bicycle paths and open space.

TOM BRADLEY

MAYOR

Los Angeles