Center, Tori Kjer, LANLT's Executive Director, Supervisor Holly Mitchell, 2nd District, Norma Edith García-González and Cynthia Medina of the Del Amo Action Committee. (photo credit: Jerry Sun)

Wishing Tree Park: A Dream Realized in West Carson

By LANLT Staff

After decades of grassroots advocacy, the Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust along with partners from Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation and the Del Amo Action Committee celebrated the opening of Wishing Tree Park, an 8.5-acre green space transformed from a toxic Superfund site into a vibrant community park. On May 16, 2024, the ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant milestone for the residents of West Carson, symbolizing the fruition of their long-held dreams for a safe and healthy environment. This park now serves over 21,000 community members, offering them a much-needed green space and a place for recreation and relaxation.

Drone photograph of the 8.5-acre Wishing Tree Site. (by Keri Oberly)

A Journey from Toxicity to Tranquility

The story of Wishing Tree Park is rooted in the environmental struggles faced by the West Carson community. For much of the 20th century, the area was home to the Montrose Chemical Corp and a synthetic rubber plant, both of which left behind a legacy of contamination. The Montrose Chemical Corp, infamous for its production of DDT, dumped hazardous waste into ponds, trenches, and sewers. Similarly, the rubber plant disposed of benzene, propane, and butylene into unlined pits and evaporation ponds. These activities contaminated the soil and groundwater, causing severe health issues for the residents, including cancers, autoimmune diseases, and respiratory problems.

In the 1990s, the community, led by the Del Amo Action Committee (DAAC), began demanding action. Formed by local residents, the DAAC advocated for comprehensive testing and cleanup of the contaminated sites. Their efforts led to the site clean-up which resulted in the displacement and demolition of about 60 families and their homes in 2001 due to dangerously high levels of toxins. The community's persistence eventually resulted in the EPA mandating a cleanup, funded by Shell Oil and Dow Chemical to the tune of $55 million.

The Role of the Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust

The Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust (LANLT) played a pivotal role in transforming the contaminated land into Wishing Tree Park. Acquiring the property from Shell Oil in 2015 for a symbolic $1.00, LANLT collaborated with DAAC and other community partners to design and build the park. This partnership ensured that the park's features would reflect the community's needs and aspirations, resulting in a space that includes a futsal court, a basketball court, a baseball field, picnic areas, walking paths, and a memorial plaza.

LANLT's involvement was crucial due to our ability to own property and navigate the complexities of land ownership and liability. Our small size and community-based approach allowed us to act swiftly and effectively, bringing the community's vision to life.

Children enjoy new playground equipment at Wishing Tree Park during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, embracing the vibrant, safe play space created for the community.  (photo credit: Jerry Sun)

A Community's Wish Fulfilled

The name "Wishing Tree Park" holds deep significance for the local community. Over a decade ago, community members planted ficus trees along the alleyway, symbolizing their hopes for a future park. Among these, one tree became a focal point for local children, who would write their wishes on pieces of paper and place them in its branches, hoping for a better future. This tradition inspired the park's name and embodies the spirit of the community's long-standing dream.

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell emphasized the park's importance: "This moment is the culmination of over 30 years of advocacy by community members and dedication from our LA County Parks Department to bring much-needed green space to the unincorporated West Carson area. I cannot wait to see our residents enjoying this 8.5-acre contemporary park that will impact generations to come."

Youth spontaneously play a lively football game during the Wishing Tree Park ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating the opening of this much-anticipated community space.  (photo credit: Jerry Sun)

Features and Amenities

Wishing Tree Park offers a variety of amenities designed to promote health, recreation, and community engagement. These include:

Memorial Plaza: Honoring the community members and their families who were displaced from the property due to the toxins and who then tirelessly advocated for the park.

Futsal Soccer Courts and Basketball Court: Providing space for sports and physical activity.

Baseball Field: A venue for local teams and casual play.

Children's Play Area: Safe, modern equipment for kids to enjoy.
Walking Trails and Exercise Equipment: Encouraging outdoor fitness and well-being.

Pollinating Gardens: Supporting local biodiversity and environmental education.

Community Room: A space for events and gatherings.

A Testament to Community Resilience

The transformation of a Superfund site into Wishing Tree Park stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the West Carson community. The park not only provides much-needed green space but also serves as a symbol of the community's perseverance and ability to overcome environmental injustice.

Looking Forward

The opening of Wishing Tree Park is not just a local victory but a powerful example of environmental justice in action. It highlights the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes and demonstrates that with persistent advocacy and collaboration, even the most contaminated lands can be transformed into spaces of beauty, health, and joy.