Maywood Riverfront Park

Located along the west bank of the Los Angeles River in southeast Los Angeles County, the city of Maywood houses numerous abandoned factory sites but only two small public parks. Maywood is the most densely populated city west of the Mississippi, home to more than 30,000 residents in only 1.13 square miles.

The Trust for Public Land worked with city leaders to double the acreage available for parks in Maywood. With funding from California Propositions 12 and 13, and support from individuals and foundations, TPL acquired six adjoining industrial parcels along the Los Angeles River, and conveyed them to the city.

While the park was completed in 2006, ultimately, the city's park complex will include a state-of-the-art playground for young children, basketball courts, and a riverfront bicycle path. Maywood city leaders also have pledged to create a $1 million park stewardship fund to finance long-term park maintenance.