Bowtie Park
Los Angeles, California
The Bowtie is an 18-acre post-industrial site along the Los Angeles River. It was acquired by California State Parks in 2003 for public use, yet has remained a landscape of concrete, contaminated soil, and invasive vegetation.
SALT developed a community-driven plan that reclaims this contaminated ground as a living riverfront for habitat, recreation, and gathering.
A Riverfront Refuge for Northeast LA
Even in its undeveloped state, the Bowtie site offers the surrounding community a refuge from city streets. Through community engagement, the team heard stories of cherished moments spent at the river’s edge—where peace, solitude, and connection to nature has provided solace to Angelenos for many years.
Working with RADAR and Clockshop, SALT held engagement pop-ups alongside other popular community events and festivals. Participants joined the design process by mapping their proposed uses and activities onto large-scale plans of the site. The design team then translated this feedback into the concept for the future park.
Site Analysis Report
Rooted in Analysis and Community Stories
SALT’s analysis considers the Bowtie’s role within a larger network of open spaces along the LA River. The report analyzes access and mobility, local demographics, existing ecological communities, and the hydrology of the river channel.
Beyond mere documentation and analysis, SALT wanted to capture the soul and legacy that this place represents for its neighbors. The report includes personal stories, historical anecdotes, and hand-drawn illustrations to bring the plan to life.
A Living Riverfront Commons
The Bowtie plan embodies the broader transformation of the LA River by reimagining outdated infrastructure to connect neighborhoods, people, water, and wildlife.
The proposed park is a network of paths, overlooks, and boardwalks woven among restored native wetlands and woodlands. The concept maintains the Bowtie’s identity as a secret spot to stumble upon and enjoy, celebrating the sense of mystery and discovery that has drawn people to the river’s edge for decades.
Community Engagement
"Places like that are really important and special, they don't feel like a park, more like your spot where you go when you want to just think or hang out with friends".
– Lily, Bowtie Youth Council
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