Sepulveda Basin Funds Kept in Bill; L.A. River Loses Out

A federal energy and water spending bill, which is expected to be signed into law this month, includes $2.5 million to expand recreational facilities in the Sepulveda Basin, but no funds for a proposed study on revitalizing the Los Angeles River.

A conference committee of House and Senate members has agreed to retain the $2.5 million in basin funding that had been set aside earlier by the House. But it deleted $700,000 that the House had endorsed to study recreational, transportation and water conservation uses for the Los Angeles River.

The measure, which must go back to both houses for final approval, is expected to be sent to President Bush for his signature later this month. The measure includes significant spending cuts as part of a broader deficit-reduction effort for the fiscal year that began Oct. 1.

Rep. Anthony C. Beilenson (D-Los Angeles), who originally sought $1 million for the river study at the behest of Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, will request the money again next year, said aide Melissa Kuckro.

Bradley hopes to transform the waterway--used primarily for flood control--into a greenbelt featuring bike paths and riding trails.

Beilenson, whose 23rd District includes the West Valley, had initially requested $5 million for the Sepulveda Basin, located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. The $2.5 million in the bill is earmarked for additional landscaping, trails and open space. The city of Los Angeles is expected to put up matching funds.

Much of the 2,150-acre basin is leased by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to the city for recreational purposes.