Officials to Discuss Oxford Basin Project Wednesday Night

A public meeting Wednesday night at the Burton Chase Park Community Room will provide updates on Marina Del Rey's Oxford Basin Enhancement Project and provide residents an opportunity to ask questions about the project's plans.

Started as a flood control and water runoff reduction project, the Oxford Basin Enhancement Project now includes the addition of recreational areas and wildlife-friendly modifications including the removal of non-native flora.

Officials also said plans for the project will significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of the basin while providing a new walking path and observations areas for the public.

"The community came back to us and said, 'Hey, we really want some of these additional features,' " project manager Josh Svensson of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works told Patch. "We’d like to have more recreational opportunities, so we found it’s a perfect opportunity to provide this true multi-benefit."

Located between Admirality Way and Washington Boulevard, the 10.7-acre basin captures urban runoff, high groundwater and tidal inflows and is filled year-round with water, according to project documents.

Wednesday night's meeting will be held from 7-9 p.m. at the Burton Chase Park Community Room. In addition to presenting the plans for the basin, the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Initial Study will be presented.

Construction on the new project is expected to begin in 2014.