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San Fernando Valley : PARK REBIRTH

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Closed since 1992 because of overcrowding, sporadic violence and gang-related activity, Orcas Park in Lake View Terrace is set to receive an $820,000 overhaul that by late next year will transform the shady, eight-acre commons into the newest city-owned equestrian facility.

The park was shut down after residents and police cited severe crowding, traffic and parking problems on weekends when impromptu concerts drew crowds of a thousand or more.

Residents, parks officials and City Councilman Richard Alarcon have worked to reopen the park as a safe, accessible recreation outlet. Officials said that about $820,000 in voter-approved Proposition A park funds have been allocated for building a 150-foot-by-300-foot equestrian arena, additional picnic facilities, extra parking for 38 horse trailers, and for moving a trail to accommodate a widened entrance road.

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Final approval is expected within the next few months, with completion scheduled for late 1996, officials said.

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