‘Environment’s’ Dirt

The art review, ironically titled “Good Environment” (May 3), neglected to mention that the outdoor public art project, “California Wash,” leads up to and overlooks one of the historically most polluted, debris-filled spots on the entire Los Angeles County coast. It is called the Pico-Kenter storm drain and empties onto the beach near the Shutter Beach Hotel at Pico Boulevard.

Your reviewer is correct in stating that “the site becomes an occasion to ponder not only Southern California’s prehistory, but also the practical and ethical demands of the modern urban environment.” Until such “storm waters” are fully and effectively treated before they reach the beach, our once-beautiful and healthful environment will not be properly restored.

“California Wash” is, however, also a handsomely landscaped interface between the beach and a previously unlovely urban streetscape. The pastel plant palette and the use of similarly subtle shades of concrete are a tremendous enhancement and an excellent example for the rest of our urbanized coast.

ELLEN STERN HARRIS

Executive Director

The Fund for the Environment

Beverly Hills