City Of Monrovia: Aftermath Of Rainstorm In Monrovia | City Manager's Update

Press release from the City of Monrovia:

12/15/2021 10:58 AM

Hello Monrovians, 

When I awoke this morning, I could not believe how clear and blue the sky is today. From a distance, I could even see snow on the San Gabriel Mountains above Monrovia. 

Yesterday's rainstorm was anticipated to be significant and it caused significant damage within Monrovia Canyon Park. Fortunately, there is no reported damage yet in the Ridgeside or Oakglade Drive neighborhood and I appreciate the preparation of those residents in advance of the storm. Throughout the rain event, Monrovia City employees from the departments of Public Works, Community Services, Police and Fire, along with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, kept a close watch on Monrovia Canyon Park and monitored the debris flow. Below are additional details on the rain event and how the City will move forward with mitigation efforts. 

Sincerely, 
Dylan

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (626) 932-5585

Monrovia Canyon Park was Significantly Damaged 

Throughout the storm, there was significant movement of mud and debris, along with rocks and boulders, in Monrovia Canyon Park, which has caused damage to facilities, roads, parking areas, utility systems and trails. 

As of this morning, staff will begin assessing the damage, and Monrovia Public Works will  begin clearing the roadway to gain access into the park. During this process, we will share photos and videos with you like we did after the Bobcat Fire. The park will remain closed throughout the winter season and likely into next year until we can rebuild and restore the park. 

Additionally, staff has identified a broken water main in the park caused by the debris flow. The water system within the park, including the running water in restrooms and drinking fountains, is likely contaminated by mud and debris. “Do Not Drink the Water” signs will be placed within the park until the water main can be repaired. For the next six to eight weeks, staff will frequently test the water within Canyon Park to determine when it is safe for use, even though the park is closed to the public. 

Neighborhood of Ridgeside Drive and Oakglade Drive

The neighborhoods of Ridgeside Drive and Oakglade Drive did not experience significant debris or mudflow onto the streets. Throughout the rain event, the Oakglade Debris Basin, a drainage structure, captured the debris and mudflow. The Evacuation Warning has now been lifted.  

The Evacuation Warning has now been lifted.   Proclamation of Existence of Local Emergency 

On December 14, the City of Monrovia issued a Proclamation of Existence of Local Emergency in response to the rainstorm on December 13 and December 14, 2021, and activated a virtual Emergency Operation Center.

A Proclamation of Existence of Local Emergency recognizes the existence of a local emergency and assists the City to mobilize resources and provide emergency response. The local state of emergency enables the City to seek reimbursement for expenditures made when responding to the emergency. 

Monrovia Parks, Wilderness, and Recreation Foundation

Many residents are asking for ways to donate or help support Canyon Park after the Bobcat Fire and now after the storm event. Monrovia Parks, Wilderness, and Recreation Foundation, also known as MPWR, has been raising funds to improve Canyon Park. Here is a link to their website should you wish to make a donation to rebuilding efforts.

This press release was produced by the City of Monrovia. The views expressed here are the author’s own.