The Griffith Park Connectivity Study documented documented both coyote and the more urban sensitive bobcat crossing the bridge. Activity was also pretty consistent, suggesting it's important role as a corridor. For example, between June 13, 2014 and December 11, 2014 our cameras documented over 200 crossings by coyotes. Although coyotes are relatively more adaptable to urban settings than other large mammals, all of the crossings occurred outside of daylight hours when human activity was much lower, indicating a preference to avoid humans. This result is in line with previous studies documenting shifts in circadian activity by carnivores to avoid recreationists.
The nearby equestrian center was monitored during 2022 and we detected 5 species of bats including the Hoary bat, Canyon bat, Mexican free-tailed bat, Yuma myotis, and California myotis. The hoary bat is urban sensitive, migratory and only roosts in foliage. The Yuma myotis only occur in riparian habitat along waterways like the LA River. Similar to carnivores, bats have an important role in urban ecosystem through their role as voracious consumers of nocturnal insects. Many of the insects that they consume are pests like mosquitoes or moths that can carry disease or damage crops. Most bats are quite sensitive to light and noise pollution and will either become displaced or alter their activity, impacting their ability to survive and play out their important roles in our ecosystems.
Regardless of whether the Mariposa Bridge was constructed to act as a wildlife corridor, there is no denying that it functions as a corridor due to its geographic location and the habitat refugia it happens to support. Therefore we must respect the function it provides in such a fragmented urban matrix with limited habitat connectivity. Studies in Griffith Park and along the LA River are already documenting what species exist and use Griffith Park either as core habitat or as habitat linkages. Corridors lose their benefits once the habitat that bookends the corridors is altered. This is why corridor and habitat connectivity experts go to great lengths to not only thoughtfully design the actual corridor structure to minimize disturbance but also restore and preserve connecting habitat leading up to the bridge. The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing is a great example that sets a great precedent for urban corridors. The crossing structure will block light pollution and dampen noise pollution and seem like an extension of surrounding habitat to make the crossing more inviting. Importantly there is equal effort being put into not only protecting surrounding habitat from future development but restoring the habitat with native plant species. Although an equestrian holding facility is technically disturbed habitat, it is much more suitable and safer for urban sensitive species than a large residential or commercial development. In order to preserve and hopefully enhance the full functionality of the bridge as a corridor, it must not be impacted with light pollution or noise pollution via alterations to the structure or alterations to bordering habitat. The development of this complex does not only impact the neighborhood with its physical footprint but its far reaching impacts to surrounding areas via noise, lights, and increased human activity. Alterations to habitat suitability for existing wildlife is not only unethical but will adversely impact the quality of human life as wildlife are pushed out. The well documented benefits of urban nature to both physical and mental health will be diminished as well and human wildlife interactions will also be altered as wildlife seek Mayor Nick Schultz
Vice Mayor Nikki Perez
11/26/2024
out new corridors in densely populated neighborhoods. Although housing is an increasing need in the LA area there are designs and locations that are less impactful to wildlife, especially when complimented with policies that further minimize human disturbance such as habitat restoration and curfews that limit human activity during crepuscular and nocturnal periods, which is when wildlife is most active. Thank you for taking these recommendations into account and considering both the quality of life of surrounding human and wild neighbors.
Sincerely,
Miguel Ordeñana
Wildlife Biologist
MIGUEL ORDEÑANA
Los Angeles, CA
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION BIOLOGIST & COMMUNITY SCIENCE PROFESSIONAL I joined the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County as a wildlife biologist and educator in April 2013. 1 am currently a Senior Manager in the Community Science Program. Prior to working at the museum, I worked as a wildlife biologist for federal and state agencies throughout California. At NHM, my role as a biologist involves studying local urban wildlife species of Los Angeles and acting as a liaison between Research & Collection researchers and the general public. My role as a Senior Manager, community science involves promoting and creating community science projects, recruitment of community scientists, and community science training. In addition to my work at NHM, I use bat detectors to study urban bat species of Los Angeles and camera traps to study urban carnivores of Griffith Park, where I grew up.
I also co-lead a jaguar camera trap study in southwestern Nicaragua, where my family is from. Besides constantly exploring local nature of Los Angeles, I am very focused on improving as an educator so that I may inspire a more diverse next generation of scientists and environmental educators.
Areas of Expertise
Wildlife Biology • Wildlife Management • Wildlife Conservation • Wildlife Survey Management & Protocol Training Camera Trap Deployment & Management • GIS Mapping • Acoustic Measurement • Conservation Issues Field Work • Data Collection • Budget Management • Team Building
EDUCATION
Master of Science, Ecology Bachelor of Arts, Environmental Studies University of California, Davis University of Southern California
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY | Los Angeles, CA April 2013 - Present Senior Manager, Community Science and Wildlife Biologist | Mar 2021 - Present • Manage execution of Wild L.A. Outdoor Equity Grant Internship and Community Engagement program Funded by California State Parks
• Supervise Community Science Coordinator
• Mentor Interns
• Facilitate field trip programs for community partners. • Steering Committee Member of Research and Mentoring for Baccalaureates in Biological Science Program Funded by the National Science Foundation
• Continue to perform Community Science Manager duties as listed below.
Community Science Manager and Wildlife Biologist | Apr 2018 - Mar 2021 • Manage community science programming that aims to make scientific literacy and urban nature more accessible.
• Assist museum curators to design community science projects that are accessible and engaging while preserving scientific integrity of projects.
• Recruit and retain community scientists in museum-led projects. • Participate as a member of a Community Engagement Council at NHMLA to make our internal culture and relations with the external community more inclusive and equitable. • Represent the museum as both an Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) Diversity and Leadership Fellow. Through these fellowships I learn strategies for making NHMLA more equitable with respect to disparity between the diversity we find in our society and the diversity we find in our NHMLA staff and audience.
• Represent the museum as an iPAGE fellow. Participate in workshops where | learn strategies for improving communication between staff and relations between NHMLA and surrounding communities. • Principal Investigator of the Backyard Bat Survey that is partnership between local community members and museum staff to learn more about bat distribution, ecology, and conservation threats in L.A. County. The project is supported by the Natural History Museum and the Disney Conservation Fund • Assisted with content curation of "P-22: L.A.'s Most Famous Feline" exhibit and "Extreme Mammals" temporary exhibition at NHMLA
• Recruit volunteers for community science projects through outreach and special events • Co-manage Southern California Squirrel Survey community science project on iNaturalist • Collaborate with school programs office to develop engaging and relevant curriculum focused on L.A. nature.
Community Science Coordinator and Wildlife Biologist | Jul 2014 - Apr 2018 • Participate as a member of a Community Engagement Council at NHMLA to make our internal culture and relations with the external community more inclusive and equitable • Represent the museum as both an Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) Diversity and Leadership Fellow. Through these fellowships | learn strategies for making NHMLA more equitable with respect to disparity between the diversity we find in our society and the diversity we find in our NHMLA staff and audience.
• Represent the museum as an iPAGE fellow. Participate in workshops where I learn strategies for improving communication between staff and relations between NHMLA and surrounding communities. • Assisted with curation of P-22: L.A.'s Most Famous Feline exhibit at NHMLA by designing theme and overseeing content development. The exhibit is focused on an inspirational story about a mountain lion who is beating the odds by surviving in the middle of L.A.
• Assisted with curation of NHMLA additions to travelling Extreme Mammals in preparation of temporary exhibition at NHMLA
• Designed, fundraised, and integrated squirrel, carnivore, and bat research into the NHMLA SuperProject backyard biodiversity survey
• Co-designed NHMLA SuperProject backyard community science biodiversity survey • Recruit volunteers for community science projects through outreach and special events • Co-manage community science squirrel study through iNaturalist • Train NHMLA staff, NHMLA volunteers, outside institutions, and general public on how to participate in various community science projects
• Photograph and map urban nature to populate L.A. Nature Map and inspire people from different neighborhoods and backgrounds to participate in various community science projects • Conduct camera trap and bat acoustic monitoring research throughout various patches of habitat throughout L.A.'s urban core (e.g., Baldwin Hills, L.A. River, NHMLA, La Brea Tar Pits) Wildlife Biologist and Educator | Apr 2013 - Jul 2014
• Co-manage squirrel community science project with Jim Dines (Mammalogy Collections Manager) • Conduct acoustic bat monitoring in the Nature Garden exhibit with Jim Dines (Mammalogy Collections Manager) and throughout the Los Angeles urban core
• Conduct camera trap monitoring in the Nature Garden exhibit and throughout the Los Angeles urban core • Document wildlife throughout Los Angeles County to populate L.A. Nature Map, an interactive urban wildlife exhibit with Naturalist, camera traps, and bat detectors • Train gallery interpreters on how to lead tours in the Nature Garden and share urban ecology concepts with the general public
• Train gallery interpreters how to discuss urban wildlife projects with the public by introducing them to urban mammal ecology
• Liaise between Research & Collections Department and Education & Exhibits Department • Educate visitors about local urban wildlife research in an effort to break down barriers between non-scientists and scientists
PASO PACIFICO | Nicaragua 2011 - 2021
Wildlife Biologist/Consultant | Nov 2011 - Mar 2021
• Co-designed jaguar conservation project with Paso Pacifico scientists • Documented a jaguar population thought to be extirpated for 30 years • Conduct workshops to mitigate jaguar human conflict in western slope of Nicaragua • Deploy camera traps to identify jaguar corridors and local outreach • Train local Nicaraguan scientists to manage camera trap monitoring and outreach • Conduct workshops for Nicaraguan children about carnivore ecology and train them how to monitor and review camera trap photos via Junior Ranger Program
M. Ordeñana Page 2 of 5
• End goal to identify critical jaguar habitat and change local jaguar image from pest to valued member of ecosystem
• Fundraised via grants, social media, and presentations to local Los Angeles community 2011 - 2018
GREATER LOS ANGELES ZOO ASSOCIATION | Los Angeles, CA
Wildlife Biologist / Consultant | Dec 2011 - Mar 2018
Managed Bat monitoring study
• Installed bat acoustic detector to study bat activity in Griffith Park near the urban edge • Created an innovative bat acoustical monitoring for research and educational exhibit purposes 2011 - 2013
COOPER ECOOGICAL MONITORING | Los Angeles, CA
Wildlife Biologist (Subcontractor) |Jun 2013 - Oct 2013 • Designed camera trap and owl survey for Fern Dell Nature Center of Griffith Park • Trained and supervised a technician and volunteer to conduct camera trap and owl surveys • Managed and analyzed data
• Helped prepare scientific report
Wildlife Biologist (Subcontractor) Griffith Park Connectivity Study| May 2011 - Jun 2013 • Co-designed camera trap study to examine large mammal movement across surrounding freeways and major roads which separate Griffith Park from neighboring mountain range and open space. • Discovered P-22, puma who crossed two freeways to reach the park where he lived for 10 years and became an ambassador for urban wildlife, coexistence, and campaign to fund construction of the largest and most urban wildlife crossing
• Camera trap data collection and camera placement.
• Recruit and train community scientists to monitor camera traps. • Present PowerPoint lectures to local residents and land managers for outreach purposes. • Outreach to inner city youth
• Management of logistical duties (e.g., permit requests, purchasing, etc.). • Conduct data entry and analysis with Camerabase
• Expanded project to corridors on east side of Griffith Park • Installed camera traps on Los Angeles Zoo property (within Griffith Park) to connect zoo visitors with local urban wildlife and nature (e.g., bobcats, coyotes, mule deer, etc.).
Wildlife Biologist (Subcontractor) Mammalogy Survey| Aug 2012 - Dec 2012 • Occupancy survey for Western Grey Squirrels in Verdugo Mountains • Deployed camera traps in suitable Western Grey Squirrel habitat • Consulted community scientists with local knowledge of area • Discovered and documented Western Grey Squirrels in Verdugo with camera trap 2010 - 2012
U.S. Forest Service | Mojave, CA
Wildlife Biologist - Bat Acoustic Monitoring
BOARD APPOINTMENTS
National Wildlife Federation | Jun 2019 - Present
Director, Board at Large and DEIJ Committee Co-Chair
Friends of Griffith Park | Jan 2013 - Present
Board of Directors
M. Ordeñana Page 3 of 5
PUBLICATIONS
Citizen science needs a name change
Publication date: June 2023
Publication name: Trends in Ecology and Evolution
Publication URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0169534723000575 Lessons for conservation from beneath the pavement
Publication date: September 2022
Publication name: Conservation Biology
Publication URL: http://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.13983
An LA Story
Publication date: July 2016
Publication name: Earth Island Journal
Publication URL: https://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/magazine/entry/an la story/ Managing California Ground Squirrels on Levees Using Habitat Modification Publication date: 2014
Publication name: Proceedings 26th Vertebrate Pest Conference Influence of adjacent crop type on occurrence of California ground squirrels on levees in the Sacramento Valley, California.
Publication date: November 2013
Publication name: Wildlife Society Bulletin
Publication URL: https://wildlife.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/wsb.370 Habitat associations of California ground squirrels and Botta's pocket gophers on levees in California.
Publication date: November 2012
Publication name: Journal of Wildlife Management
Publication URL: https://wildlife.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/iwmg.402 Factors influencing burrow length and depth of ground-dwelling squirrels.
Publication date: October 2012
Publication name: Journal of Mammalogy
Publication URL: https://academic.oup.com/imammal/article/93/5/1240/857780 Carnivores living on the edge.
Publication date: October 2011
Publication name: Conservation Biology
Publication URL: https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2011.01735.x Effects of urbanization on carnivore species distribution and richness.
Publication date: 2010
Publication name: Journal of Mammalogy
Publication URL: https://academic.oup.com/jmammal/article/91/6/1322/887903
HONORS / AWARDS
AAM Nancy Hanks Rising Star Award - American Alliance of Museums | Mar 2024 The Nancy Hanks Memorial Award for Rising Stars recognizes museum professionals with ten years or less of experience whose body of work has benefited the honoree's home institution, community, or the broader museum field. Honorees' work may be in any area of museum operations (administration, collections management, community engagement, curation, development, education, equity and culture, exhibitions, human resources, leadership and management, marketing and communications, public relations, research and evaluation, registration, security, technology, etc.) or any area impacting the museum field.
NWF Environmental Justice 21st Century Outstanding Board Member Award - National Wildlife Federation | Jun 2022 Awarded to board members who have demonstrated a commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities and/or people with marginalized identities. The individual has contributed to unraveling systems of oppression within and/or outside of the M. Ordeñana Page 4 of 5
National Wildlife Federation. Lastly the awardee has enacted thought-leadership to institutionalize values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice to transform the National Wildlife Federation into a 21st century organization City of STEM Icon Award - City of STEM | Apr 2022
The City of STEM Icon Award is given to a current Los Angeles resident who inspires young people and exhibits excellence in promoting and advancing STEM through teaching, funding, or facilitating programs in Los Angeles County.
Disney Conservation Fund Award - The Walt Disney Company | Sep 2018 and Sep 2020 The NHM Backyard Bat Survey was awarded a $50,000 grant from the Disney Conservation Fund.
In this project, museum scientists partner residents in under-studied L.A. neighborhoods to track and record bat activities for the first large-scale study of bat habitat usage in urban and suburban habitats. The project also involves a community science based bat mapping project with the support of the USGS, USFS, SoCal Bat Working Group, and community members. Miguel is the Principle Investigator on this project.
iPAGE Inclusivity Fellow - Science Museum of Minnesota | Sep 2017 Awarded with the opportunity to participate in an NSF funded 4 part inclusivity and equity training workshop at the Science Museum of Minnesota.
Certificate of Appreciation - City of Los Angeles | Oct 2017 Miguel was presented with a certificate of appreciation by the City of Los Angeles for his contributions to urban wildlife research and education. The city specifically referenced the discovery of P-22, the Griffith Park mountain lion and his work in community science.
ASTC Diversity and Leadership Fellowship - Association of Science and Technology Centers | Jun 2017 The ASTC Diversity and Leadership Development Fellows Program is designed to support the professional growth and retention of professionals of color currently working in the field.
Bob Berry 2017 Scholarship Award - Bob Berry Scholarship Fund | Apr 2017 The award supports the NHMLA Backyard Bat Survey by providing Sonobat 4.0 bat echolocation analysis software and a bat detector to be used for both research and outreach programming.
Scientific Product Grant - Wildlife Acoustics, Inc. | Jun 2016 Wildlife Acoustics, Inc. awarded Miguel and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County bat acoustic monitoring equipment and bat acoustic analysis software. The equipment was awarded to support a backyard bat community science survey in the Greater Los Angeles area.
AZA Conservation Grants Fund - Association of Zoos and Aquariums | Aug 2014 Funding for jaguar conservation program in southwestern Nicaragua Conservation Grant - Los Angeles Zoo | 2014, 2013, 2012 Jaguar Conservation Grant - Woodland Park Zoo | 2014, 2013 M. Ordeñana Page 5 of 5
11/26/24, 5:35 PM Mail - Darcy Conkle - Outlook
Ltl Acorn LZOO 057 F 014°C 06.25.2013 05:08:51
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Ltl Acorn LZOO 059F 015°C 06.15.2013 21:38:41
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MOUNTAINS RECREATION & CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
King Gillette Ranch
KECKEATION
November 26, 2024
VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
Acting Mayor Nikki Perez
Councilmember Konstantine Anthony
Councilmember Tamala Takahashi
Councilmember Zizette Mullins
City of Burbank
275 East Olive Avenue
Burbank, California 91502
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
City Council Consideration of Development Project at 910 S. Mariposa Street Honorable Mayor and Council Members:
The Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA), partially exercising the powers of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (SMMC or Conservancy), a state agency, offers the following comments on the proposed development project at 910 S.
Mariposa Street (Project). We understand that the City of Burbank (City) is evaluating whether to approve the Project as a streamlined development pursuant to SB 35 (Government Code Section 65913.4).
The Conservancy was created as part of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Act, which established the Santa Monica Mountains Zone ("Zone"). The project site proposed to be developed is immediately adjacent to and touches portions of Griffith Park (APN 5581-001-906), which is within the Zone. The City of Los Angeles has determined that this area provides "high" Mountain Lion Potential as shown in its the Zone Information and Map Access System ("ZIMAS") see excerpt directly below. * Environmental
Santa Monica Mountains Zone Yes
Biological Resource Potential High
Mountain Lion Potential High
Monarch Butterfly Potential No
As the MRCA's longtime senior ecologist, I concur with the City of Los Angeles' conclusion that the area, including the project site in question at 910 S. Mariposa Street, provides habitat for the local population of State-listed mountain lion. This particular area A local public agency exercising joint powers of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, the Conejo Recreation & Park District, and the Rancho Simi Recreation & Park District pursuant to Section 6500 et seg. of the Government Code. 11/26/24, 3:39 PM Mail - Darcy Conkle - Outlook
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11/26/24, 3:37 PM Mail - Darcy Conkle - Outlook
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New Study Confirms Building Collisions Kill
Over One Billion Birds Annually in U.S.
Research Shows Bird Deaths from Collisions Far Surpass Previous Estimates, Highlighting Urgent Need for Bird-safe Glass Retrofits and Artificial Light Reduction Measures
August 7, 2024 • American Bird Conservancy
A Black-throated Green Warbler (https://abcbirds.org/bird/black-throated-green-warbler/) found in a stunned state after colliding with a window. Photo by Kaitlyn Parkins.
A groundbreaking research study published in PLOS ONE
(https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0306362)today has uncovered alarming new evidence that building collisions (https://abcbirds.org/glass- collisions/) are killing significantly more birds than previously estimated—well over one billion annually in the United States alone.
The research, conducted by scientists at American Bird Conservancy (ABC), Fordham University (https://www.fordham.edu/), NYC Bird Alliance (https://nycbirdalliance.org/), and Stony Brook University (https://www.stonybrook.edu/) examined outcomes for over https://abcbirds.ora/news/bird-buildina-collisions-studv-2024/ 1/6 11/26/24, 12:58 PM New Study Confirms Building Collisions Kill Over One Billion Birds Annually in U.S. - American Bird Conservancy 3,000 birds injured in building collisions and brought to rehabilitators across multiple states. Their findings uncovered that only 40 percent of birds with injuries from collisions survive, even with the highest standards of wildlife rehabilitator care, suggesting that current mortality estimates based solely on birds found dead at collision sites vastly undercount the true toll.
"Even under the best care conditions provided by wildlife rehabilitators, 60 percent of collision victims ultimately died from their injuries," said lead author Ar Kornreich of Fordham University. "This indicates that birds who appear stunned or fly away after a collision are far more likely to die than previously thought." Previous research estimated between 365 million and 988 million birds die annually from building collisions in the U.S. However, today's research findings suggest that even this upper estimate falls short of the true impact. By factoring in the high mortality rate of birds that initially survive collision but later die from their injuries, this new study pushes the estimated death toll well beyond the one billion mark. "Bird populations across the globe are in steep decline (https://abcbirds.org/3-billion- birds/), in part due to collisions with buildings," added co-author Dustin Partridge, PhD, of NYC Bird Alliance, formerly NYC Audubon. "Unfortunately, our work shows population-level declines are not something we can fix with rehabilitation. If we don't address artificial light and glass, we'll continue to lose over a billion birds in the US annually — a toll our ecosystems can't sustain."
This study not only sheds light on the magnitude of the problem https://abcbirds.org/news/chicago-collisions-event-2023/) but also points to potential solutions. By implementing bird-friendly design (https://abcbirds.org/glass- collisions/architecture-planning/) in new construction and retrofitting existing buildings, building owners can significantly reduce bird collisions. Additionally, reducing artificial light at night (https://www.nycbirdalliance.org/our-work/conservation/project-safe- flight/artificial-light) can help mitigate the disorienting effect on night-migrating birds (https://abcbirds.org/news/dark-skies-help-birds/), further preventing collisions and concentrations of birds in human dominated landscapes.
"Birds generally cannot see (https://abcbirds.org/glass-collisions/why-birds-hit-glass// or recognize glass. When they see vegetation or the sky reflected in windows, they perceive it as habitat and do not know there's a barrier in the way that they cannot fly through," added senior author Kaitlyn Parkins of ABC. "The good news is, people can help. For https://abcbirds.ora/news/bird-buildina-collisions-studv-2024/ 2/6
11/26/24, 12:58 PM New Study Confirms Building Collisions Kill Over One Billion Birds Annually in U.S. - American Bird Conservancy existing buildings and homes, the easiest fix is to add inexpensive, commercially available bird-safe window treatments (https://abcbirds.org/solutions/prevent-home-collisions/) such as those tested by ABC."
The study's findings paint a grim picture of the challenges faced (https://abcbirds.org/news/global-bird-rescue-week-2023/) by birds and the need for solutions to be adopted by building owners, especially during the peak of fall and spring migration (https://abcbirds.org/blog/north-american-bird-flyways/). Most birds brought to rehabilitation centers due to window collisions that later died were found to be otherwise healthy, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of this threat. Birds that are stunned by window collisions (https://abcbirds.org/blog/frequent-colliders/) often are in treatment for at least a day before dying, demonstrating the gradual lethality of window collisions.
Unseen injuries such as bruising, eye ulcers, and fractures prevent them from continuing their annual migratory journeys (https://abcbirds.org/bird-migration-facts/). "We've all witnessed birds collide with buildings, shake it off, and fly away," said co- author Mason Youngblood, PhD, of Stony Brook University. "It's natural to assume that these birds survive, but our research reveals a stark reality — most of these birds die shortly after. This sobering finding demonstrates the importance of using statistical analyses to shape urban conservation policy."
"As a licensed wildlife rehabber myself, I know the critical role rehabilitation centers play in improving the lives of individual birds and communicating the needs of wildlife," added Kornreich. "But to reverse alarming declines in bird populations and protect biodiversity, we need collaboration with researchers, policymakers, and the public to address this critical conservation issue."
Reference:
Ar Kornreich, Dustin Partridge, Mason Youngblood, and Kaitlyn Parkins: "Rehabilitation outcomes of bird-building collision victims in the Northeastern United States." PLOS ONE (https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0306362).2024. ###
American Bird Conservancy (http://abcbirds.org/) (ABC) takes bold action to conserve wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. Inspired by the wonder of birds, we achieve lasting results for the bird species most in need while also benefiting human https://abcbirds.ora/news/bird-buildina-collisions-studv-2024/ 3/6 11/26/24, 12:58 PM New Study Confirms Building Collisions Kill Over One Billion Birds Annually in U.S. - American Bird Conservancy communities, biodiversity, and the planet's fragile climate. Our every action is underpinned by science, strengthened by partnerships, and rooted in the belief that diverse perspectives yield stronger results. Founded as a nonprofit organization in 1994, ABC remains committed to safeguarding birds for generations to come. Join us! (https://abcbirds.org/) Together, we can do more to ensure birds thrive.
Media Contact
Jordan Rutter
Director of Communications
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
More News From ABC
(https://abcbirds.org/news/abc-30th- (https://abcbirds.org/news/dark-skies- anniversary/) help-birds/)
American Bird Conservancy Celebrates Darkening the Night Skies Can Help 30 Years of Results for Birds Across the Birds (https://abcbirds.org/news/dark- Americas skies-help-birds/)
(https://abcbirds.org/news/abc-30th-
anniversary/)
https://abcbirds.ora/news/bird-buildina-collisions-studv-2024/ 4/6 11/26/24, 1:01 PM Threats to Birds: Collisions (Buildings & Glass) | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Image Details
Threats to Birds: Collisions
(Buildings & Glass)
Threats to Birds: Collisions (Buildings
& Glass)
Hi very year more than one billion birds collide with glass in the U.S. alone! While most fatal • collisions happen at homes and buildings shorter than four stories tall, smaller structures like glass walkways and bus stop shelters also pose a threat.
Why do birds collide with glass?
To birds, glass is an invisible, deceiving threat. Since they cannot see glass the way we do, they do not treat it as a barrier to avoid. Instead, they can be attracted closer to the reflections in glass that show what could appear to be elements of their natural habitat, such as plants and open sky. Birds can also collide with windows when they are attracted to landscaping outside the window or lights shining out from the interior. Sadly, while many birds that collide with windows may seem fine at first, most later die from traumatic injuries.
The good news is, these collisions are preventable, and there are many ways we can make our homes and buildings safer for birds! Even better, many of the solutions come with added benefits, such as new aesthetic designs and reduction in energy use and costs! https://www.fws.aov/storv/threats-birds-collisions-buildinas-alass 1/10 11/26/24, 1:01 PM Threats to Birds: Collisions (Buildings & Glass) | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service So, How Can You Help?
BIRD STRIKE IMPRESSION
Dress Up Your Windows
Patterns can be applied to the outside of
windows to help birds see that glass is there.
These patterns should be ¼-inch in diameter
(or larger) and be placed no more than 2 inches
apart from each other. Spacing patterns in a 2"
× 2" grid is especially important for protecting UPCLOSE small birds like hummingbirds. Dark colored
patterns can be difficult for birds to see when
the window reflects dark colors, so it can be Image Details best to use medium to light colors for visibility.
Parachute cord curtains cost approximately 11 BEfORE AFTER cents per square foot. This elegant, inexpensive
option uses 1/8-inch paracord pieces spaced
less than 4 inches apart, hanging outside from
the top of the window. The paracord creates a
visual barrier for birds. These curtains can
be purchased pre-made L or constructed of
SUNSE
readily available and inexpensive materials.
Tempera paint costs 13 cents per square foot.
Using the 2" × 2" spacing mentioned above,
non-toxic tempura paint patterns or artwork Image Details applied to exterior glass can reduce bird
collisions for many years. Tempura paint is easily removed using vinegar and water. This can be a fun activity to do with family, friends or even in a class with students! Screens and netting cost about $1.83 per square foot. External insect screens reduce bird collisions by reducing window reflections and alerting birds that windows are barriers. Netting prevents injuries to birds if the bird can safely bounce off the screen instead of hit the hard glass. Net openings should be 1/2-inch or smaller, so birds don't become caught. Screens can be attached with suction cups or eyehooks.
Tape, decals, and external films cost $2.50 (tape), $8-12 (dot patterns), and $4-6 (film), all per square foot. Products are available in many colors, tints, and patterns. https://www.fws.aov/storv/threats-birds-collisions-buildinas-alass 2/10 11/26/24,1:01 PM Threats to Birds: Collisions (Buildings & Glass) | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Choose Bird Friendly Glass
Acid-etched, Fritted or Frosted Glass
Most effective when on the glass exterior, "fritted" glass includes adhered ceramic lines, dots or other patterns. Etching, fritting, and frosting not only reduce the risk of bird collisions but also reduce energy costs by reducing solar heat gain (27 SHGC) and reducing cooling loads. You can save energy and birds while still naturally lighting your buildings. Existing glass can be frosted using sandblasting. The American Bird Conservancy provides the latest recommendations in glass products and techniques.
Ultraviolet Patterned Glass
Ultraviolet (UV)-reflecting glass products are available with patterns generally invisible to humans but visible to many birds species. The American Bird Conservancy provides the latest recommendations in glass products.
Channel Glass
Patterns created by channel glass reduce bird collisions and is made of energy efficient, recycled materials. The American Bird Conservancy provides the latest recommendations in glass products.
Reduce Lights at Night
Lastly, one of the simplest actions we can take has less to do with the glass and more to do with our lights! Though birds collide with glass all throughout the year, it happens the most when they are on the move during spring and fall migration. Most birds migrate at night, making them more vulnerable to buildings and other structures lit with artificial lights they might be attracted to, often resulting in tragic collisions, entrapment, and exhaustion.
Minimizing artificial lights at night can make a big difference for birds, pollinators, and even us humans who like to see the starry night sky! Turning off unneeded lights by hand or using timers and motion sensors can not only lessen bird attraction to glass, but can also reduce energy costs and light pollution overall. Using blinds, shades, awnings and shutters in windows can also reduce the amount of light that escapes in or out and help birds see the glass as a barrier.
Visit our page on nighttime lighting to learn more about how you can implement bird-conscious lighting techniques at your location. These techniques can also be used on offshore vessels and structures, where birds that migrate or forage over seas are also affected and disoriented by nighttime lighting.
https://www.fws.aov/storv/threats-birds-collisions-buildinas-alass 3/10 11/26/24, 1:01 PM Threats to Birds: Collisions (Buildings & Glass) | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Problematic lighting Turn lights off with Downshield and Use "warmer" color automatic controls dim the lights temperature
(<3000 Kelvin)
Image Details
Bird Collision Reduction Toolkits
BIRD-FRIENDLY HOME TOOLKE
BIRD-FRIENDLY BUILDING TOOLKIT
BIRD-FRIENDLY UNIVERSITY TOOLKIT
BIRD-FRIENDLY COMMUNICATION TOWER TOOLKI
DEVELOPING A BIRD-GLASS COLLISION MONORIS VROGRAM
Podcast on Collisions by USFWS/NCTC on Collisions - Birds in Flight: Migration and Its Perils Z.
SPANISH RESOURCES
Story Tags
BIRDS COLLISIONS CONSERVATION HUMAN DIMENSIONS OF WILDLIFE
HUMAN IMPACTS MIGRATORY BIRDS
https://www.fws.aov/storv/threats-birds-collisions-buildinas-alass 4/10 Cornelllab y
All About Birds
Why Do Migratory Birds Crash
Into Buildings And How Can It
Be Prevented?
Even in the best of circumstances,
spring and fall are dangerous times for
migrating birds. Most birds migrate at
night, and major cities full of brightly
lit buildings can draw the birds
off course and increase the risk of
striking windows.
The reasons are not entirely
understood, but nocturnal migrants Migrating Whimbrels by John Mueller via Birdshare. often navigate by the stars. Illuminated
windows and other night lights may divert them from their original flight paths, especially in low-ceiling or foggy conditions. The birds mill about in the lighted area, where they collide with the lighted structure or with reflective windows the next day. In addition to buildings, communications towers and radio antennas pose similar threats. Hundreds or thousands of dead birds may litter city streets after a wave of migrants has passed through. In all, up to 1 billion birds die each year in North America from colliding with structures.
As people learn more about where, Free Illustrated Poster when and how these nighttime collisions
WOODPECKERS
happen, they are also learning how to
prevent them. Since 1993, the Fatal
Light Awareness Program (FLAP), a
Toronto-based conservation society, has
spearheaded "Lights Out" programs
across North America, calling for Illustration by Vera Ting | Bartels Science Illustrator buildings in major cities to turn out all
of their lights each night during peak migration times. One study conducted by the Field Museum in Chicago showed that in one building, turning the lights off reduced the number of bird kills by an average of 83%. Birdcast a joint project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Colorado State University, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst analyzes weather surveillance radar to estimate the numbers, flight directions, speeds, and altitudes of birds aloft across the contiguous United States.
See Birdcast migration dashboard for more information on birds passing over any counties in the Lower 48. BirdCast also offers resources on how to go Lights Out, and you can sign up for alerts when particularly heavy migration is expected in your area and turning out lights is most beneficial.
In addition to turning out lights, it's important to make windows safer for birds. And it's not just skyscrapers that are a problem: millions of birds die in collisions at residences as well. Visit our Window Collisions page for more about window treatments that help prevent collisions in residential areas.
More Information:
• Why Birds Hit Windows-And How You Can Help Prevent It offers suggestions and photos of window treatments that help prevent collisions. • A Single Night Of Bird Collisions In Chicago Points To The Need For Window Safety, Living Bird Spring 2024
• Dr. Daniel Klem, one of the field's leading researchers, has information about both problems and solutions on his website
• Bird Injuries From Collisions With Windows: What We Know, And What You Can Do [Video], 2017 seminar by Christine Sheppard, Bird Collisions Campaign Manager, American Bird Conservancy
• Glass Action for Birds, Living Bird, Winter 2014
• Hope For Solving Bird Collisions, a brief report on the problem of bird strikes as discussed at the 2009 meeting of the American Ornithologists' Union
The CornellLab Y
All About Birds
Is A Free Resource
Available for everyone,
funded by donors like you
Donate
11/26/24, 1:00 PM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for Solutions - Yale E360 Yale Environment 360
Nearly 1,000 birds were killed after colliding with the McCormick Place Lakeside Center in Chicago on October 5. DARYL COLDREN / FIELD MUSEUM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for
Solutions
A massive bird kill this month highlighted a grim problem: As many as a billion birds die in the U.S. each year by flying into windows and glass walls. Efforts are now underway in cities to dim building lights, make glass more visible, and adopt other bird-friendly practices.
BY RICHARD MERTENS • OCTOBER 26, 2023
ost early mornings in the spring and fall, as he has done for more than curator of birds at Chicago's Field Museum of Natural History, Willard walks the mile from his office, in the dark, to pick up the thrushes, warblers, sparrows, and other migrating birds that have met their end against the glass walls of McCormick Place, a giant modernist rectangle on the Lake Michigan shore. The dead birds go into a plastic grocery bag. Those that are stunned but still alive he slips into a paper sandwich bag, to be released later in the brush on a nearby hill.
Originally built in 1960 in a city park, McCormick Place is the largest convention center in North America. Thanks to the diligence of Willard and his colleagues, it has also earned a wide reputation as a killer of birds. On a good day during migration season, he might find half a dozen dead birds; on a bad day, maybe 100. Earlier this month, a rare combination of weather and migratory patterns brought clouds of birds flying down the Lake Michigan shore. Willard found 966 dead at McCormick Place, https://e360.vale.edu/features/bird-window-collisions 1/7 11/26/24, 1:00 PM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for Solutions - Yale E360 mostly warblers. Nearly 100 others had hit the building but were still alive. "It was scary," Willard said.
At night, bright lights both disorient and attract
birds. At dawn, window reflections of trees and sky
lure them to their death.
Bird collisions are a growing problem in the United States - and the world over. Four years ago, scientists reported that the number of birds in North America had declined by nearly 3 billion, or almost 30 percent, over the previous half century. Scientists say one obvious cause is habitat loss; a less obvious cause is our modern obsession with glass walls and windows. According to estimates published in the journal The Condor in 2014, building collisions kill hundreds of millions of birds each year in the U.S. and reduce the total number of birds by 2 to 9 percent. In Chinese cities, where glass buildings have also proliferated, scientists noted in a recent letter to Science, bird collisions "are now an important global factor in bird mortality." At the same time, there are growing efforts across the U.S. and Canada to NEVER MISS AN ARTICLE reduce collisions and make cities more bird friendly. Businesses in more Subscribe to the E360 Newsletter for and more cities are taking part in "lights out" programs that ask building weekly updates delivered to your inbox. Sign Up.
managers to dim lights during spring and fall migrations. Architects are designing buildings that reduce bird collisions, sometimes by using glass that birds can see and avoid. And more and more communities - from big cities like New York to smaller communities like Lake County, Illinois - are adopting ordinances that require bird friendly glass in new construction.
Ornithologist David Willard holds a dead sparrow killed by hitting the McCormick Place building. RICHARD MERTENS https://e360.vale.edu/features/bird-window-collisions
2/7
11/26/24, 1:00 PM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for Solutions - Yale E360 The problem of bird collisions has two aspects: glass and lights. Migrating birds fly mainly at night, and scientists say bright lights both disorient and attract them. When day dawns, window reflections of trees and sky lure birds to their death. Under some conditions, glass is invisible to birds, and they hit it while aiming for spaces beyond.
It's an issue not just for brightly lit downtowns but also for buildings away from city centers, including rural and suburban houses. While lights at any height can attract and disorient birds, most collisions happen on the lowest floors. Indeed, most birds don't die on the upper levels of skyscrapers but in low-rise commercial districts and residential neighborhoods.
Events like the mass collisions in Chicago this month - it's not the only one of its kind - have drawn new attention to an old problem, inspiring bird lovers, conservationists, architects, and others to try to make cities safer for birds. One of these efforts focuses on persuading businesses and building managers to dim exterior lights during migration periods, to shield upward-facing lights and, as much as possible, to turn off interior lights. Chicago was the first U.S. city to start a Lights Out program in 1999, following the example of Toronto, whose program started in 1995. The movement has now reached 48 U.S. cities.
Cities and even some smaller communities are
adopting ordinances that require bird-friendly glass.
Meanwhile, groups of volunteers monitor collisions, going out in the morning to pick up the dead, rescue the wounded, and identify the most dangerous buildings. In Chicago, more than 200 volunteers take turns patrolling the city's downtown. This is labor-intensive work that's hard to organize. New York City has a large crew of volunteers, too, but NYC Audubon has also set up an online system, called dBird, that allows anyone to report a bird collision.
A separate effort focuses on the development and use of bird-safe glass. Architects like Chicago's Jeanne Gang are designing buildings that use fritted glass, which is factory- treated with a pattern of ceramic dots or other designs that are visible to birds.
Architects have used other tricks to break up the wide panes that are especially dangerous for birds, including decorative panels that allow in light but are visible to birds.
Meanwhile, ways of treating existing windows are becoming more popular. Feather Friendly, a Toronto company, sells a vinyl film that homeowners and building owners can use to affix tiny dots to their windows. The company says its sales have increased twentyfold over the last five years. Studies suggest that window treatments work. In one study, published in 2022, a researcher applied dots to the side of glass bus shelters in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and found that they reduced bird collisions by 64 percent. https://e360.vale.edu/features/bird-window-collisions 317 11/26/24, 1:00 PM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for Solutions - Yale E360 At a dormitory at the University of Chicago, some windows are partially covered with decorative panels that allow in light but are also visible to birds. STEVE HALL / HEDRICH BLESSING Until now, the use of bird-friendly glass has mostly been voluntary, and it's been used mostly on public buildings like the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City, or at colleges and universities, including the University of Chicago dormitory towers designed by Gang. Increasingly, however, cities and even some smaller communities are adopting ordinances that require these features.
New York City passed a local law in 2020 that requires all new construction, as well as buildings whose exterior glazing is undergoing alteration, to use bird-friendly glass on floors up to 75 feet high. Washington, D.C., passed a similar ordinance that will go into effect next year. (It raises the affected height to 100 feet.) In 2022, Nashville officials, persuaded by five women involved in local conservation efforts, joined the Lights Out program under the name Bird Safe Nashville. Bridgestone Americas, the tire company whose 30-story glass headquarters dominates the Nashville skyline, signed on first; the managers of a dozen prominent buildings, including the Nashville City Center office tower, the UBS Tower, and the Life & Casualty Tower also agreed to dim their lights. "It's an underappreciated problem that's causing
irreparable damage to our population of birds," says
an ornithologist.
But other building owners resisted. "This is a new concept for Nashville," said Jackie Byrom, an organizer of Bird Safe Nashville. "I didn't know there were birds migrating over Nashville. Most people don't." Elsewhere, say Lights Out advocates, building managers report that turning off lights is a burden (the increasing use of motion https://e360.vale.edu/features/bird-window-collisions
4/7
11/26/24, 1:00 PM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for Solutions - Yale E360 detectors should help in this regard), and some tenants say they simply prefer to keep their lights on for security reasons and their business logos lit.
Birds collisions are not a new problem, but scientists and conservationists did not begin to take the issue seriously until the 1970s, after glass buildings became more popular. Daniel Klem Jr., a graduate student at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, conducted the first real study of bird window strikes in the U.S. by tracking kills around that city. He estimated that mortality from window collisions, nationwide, was between 97 and 975 million birds a year, and he began advocating for solutions, like eliminating bird attractants near windows or partially covering windows. Most of his suggestions, he said, have gone unheeded.
Vinyl dots applied to this window make the pane more visible to birds. FEATHER FRIENDLY "I believe to this day it's an underappreciated problem that's causing irreparable damage to our population of birds," said Klem, who is now a professor of ornithology and conservation science at Muhlenburg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania. But "for the last 10 years," he said, more hopefully, "things have been happening." David Willard, of course, has been working on the issue almost his entire life. On a recent Thursday, he arrived at McCormick Place before dawn and began to circumnavigate the three-story building. He moved quickly, peering into the shadows, scanning the concrete for small ALSO ON YALE E360
clumps of feathers.
Climate change is pushing these
migratory birds to the brink. Read
more.
https://e360.vale.edu/features/bird-window-collisions
5/7
11/26/24, 1:00 PM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for Solutions - Yale E360 Workers were already busy inside the building, but no light was seen from its west and north sides - which have historically seen the most bird strikes, Willard said. After the mass killing two weeks earlier, building managers had lowered curtains to block interior light. It was something that conservationists and bird monitors had long sought and a sharp contrast to that day when no curtains hung, the lights shone brilliantly into the night, and hundreds of birds perished. "Short of changing it to no glass, it's the best thing they can do," Willard said
In 2021, scientists reported that dimming the lights at McCormick Place had reduced bird collisions by 60
percent.
On this day, Willard found no dead birds. But on the west side of the building, as he passed beneath a brightly lit glass walkway that leads over Lakeshore Drive, he spotted a thrush standing on the concrete, alert but unmoving. He crept up slowly behind it, then quickly snatched it up, and slipped it into a paper bag. Not far away he picked up a dead swamp sparrow, then a pine warbler, and a golden-crowned kinglet, a tiny clump of feathers weighing barely a fifth of an ounce and small enough to fit in a soup spoon.
Since 1982, Willard and others have collected nearly 160,000 dead birds from Chicago sites, about a quarter of them from McCormick Place. Researchers enter each bird's species, sex, age, and weight into a database that they hope will give scientists insights into bird populations and migratory patterns. Volunteers then strip the birds of their feathers, and scavenger beetles consume their flesh. The skeletons go into the Field's ever-expanding collection.
McCormick Place Lakeside Center on the shore of Lake Michigan in Chicago. SERHII CHRUCKY / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO
https://e360.vale.edu/features/bird-window-collisions 6/7 11/26/24, 1:00 PM As Bird Kills from Buildings Mount, Cities Look for Solutions - Yale E360 Two years ago, the long-term monitoring of McCormick Place led to a finding whose importance rivaled Klem's work in southern Illinois in the 1970s. Convention business had slowed around 2000, and the number of dark days at McCormick Place's Lakeside Center had increased. This allowed Willard and his colleagues at the Field Museum to compare the number of bird collisions when the building was dark to the number of collisions when it was lit. They kept track of this for two decades. In 2021, they reported that dimming the lights had reduced bird collisions by 60 percent. It was clear proof, at least on the scale of a single building, that turning off the lights could work.
"The discouraging thing is when you see that solutions, or things that make it better, don't get implemented," Willard said. "It's frustrating." He looked north toward downtown. The lights had been dimmed in many buildings, and the city had a subdued look. But he also noticed many new glass buildings, which, he lamented, "seemed designed to kill birds."
Willard made a round and a half, circling back to the north side to check for birds that might have hit the glass just as day dawned, then headed back to the museum. In the distance, Lake Michagan lay gray and flat in the growing light.
MORE ON YALE E360
"I guess I'm optimistic," he said, the birds tucked away in a backpack Avian flu outbreaks in marine mammals slung over his shoulder. "But I hate it that it takes 900 birds in one night mark new era for deadly virus. Road to get people's attention."
Richard Mextens grew up in rural Wisconsin and has devoted most of his life to journalism. He has worked in the United States, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Turkey. He lives with his family in Chicago. MORE → https://e360.vale.edu/features/bird-window-collisions
7/7
City Council Meeting - Joint with the Housing Authority and Parking Authority
Meeting Time: 11-26-24 16:00
eComments Report
Meeting Agenda Comments Support Oppose Neutral
Meetings
Time Items
City Council Meeting - Joint with the 11-26-24 56 17 1 16 Housing Authority and Parking Authority 16:00
Sentiments for All Meetings
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
- Support (5%) Oppose (94%) Neutral (0%)
No Response (0%)
16 Agenda Item: eComments for 9, Adoption of a Resolution to Confirm the Community Development Director's Determination and Approval of the Streamlined Ministerial Design Review for a 40-Unit Multifamily Residentlal Project at 910 South Mariposa Street, Pursuant to Burbank Municipal Code Title 10, Chapter 1 (Zoning), Article 19, Division 12 (Streamlined Ministerial Approval Process) and Senato Bill 35 (CA Government Code Section 65913.4) - Community Developmont Department Overall Sentiment
Support (596) Oppose (94%%) Neutral (096)
No Response (0%)
Robert Weber
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 2:59pm 11-26-24
As a homeowner, tax payer and voter in the Rancho I strongly oppose the development at 910 S. Mariposa due to safety issues and the destruction of our community.
Kari Weber
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 2:54pm 11-26-24
I'm a resident of the Rancho and am opposed to the development at 910 S. Mariposa because of the safety issues that will result from it as well as the degradation of the essence of the equestrian neighborhood. The proposed development is on a one lane road with a cul-de-sac and it is only 50 feet from the historic Marisposa Bridge which provides access to the park. Due to the narrowness of the road and the inevitable increase in traffic, this creates a safety issue for horses and their riders as well as for people walking their dogs or riding their bikes on Mariposa and Valley Heart.
Denise Gutches
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 2:46pm 11-26-24
My family has lived in Burbank for 36 years and at for the past 26 years, which is located just down the street from the proposed 910 S. Mariposa project. We moved to this neighborhood due to its charm, the quiet residential community and the wonderful equestrian experience. The proposed project will change the character of our streets and community in many detrimental ways the most egregious of which includes, increasing safety risks for our community and horses, disturbing the natural habitat, and changing the character of this quiet community.
Madison JonescAleese
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 1:41pm 11-26-24
Hi! My name is Madison Jones McAleese and I'm a lifelong resident of the Rancho, a nonprofit consultant and work in community impact. I believe in increasing local housing, but we need to be responsible about where we develop, and responsive to the needs of the community. 40 units will hurt the neighborhood. The streets are already narrow for cars, pedestrians, & horses (we also have bunnies, cows & other wonderful animals). Adding these units will make it unsafe. We are already prepping for the Pickwick condos. Please reconsider & protect the wildlife & land that is so special to the Rancho.
Sara Sluke
Location: , Burbank
Submitted At: 11:31am 11-26-24
This 40 unit development will devastate this neighborhood. Too big, too tall, too many units, too many cars. The giant complex being built at Pickwick is adding more density to this neighborhood than should have been allowed.
There are plenty of other opportunities for building much needed housing elsewhere in Burbank. This neighborhood has given so much. Please protect the safety of its residents! Stephen Neal
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 11:28am 11-26-24
This 40 unit, five story building will wreck the Rancho neighborhood. We already have condos going up on Riverside in the old Pickwick property. Enough already! Gail Just
Location: BURBANK
Submitted At: 10:58am 11-26-24
RIVERSIDE DR
Kate Adams
Location: , Burbank
Submitted At: 10:22am 11-26-24
I strongly oppose this SB35 application, it does not qualify because of the errors in the developers application, and the omission of important information that also proves that it does not qualify in the Staff's report. The perimeter does not meet the 75% rule qualification. The scale of this project cannot be supported on a street like Mariposa. It is a one lane road dead ending at the Historic Mariposa Bridge, this is a public health and safety issue. Burbank needs to do better in protect the community that exists here and lives here. There are quantifiable measures that prove it is unsafe.
Sharla Fisher
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 12:07am 11-26-24
The ruination of a lovely neighborhood due to greed. There are plenty of areas in Burbank that can handle a 5 story development not on a single lane street where horses are ridden. Just ridiculous. There is nothing in the neighborhood even close to 5 stories. We're already getting 200 more cars in the area at Pickwick. Fight for us.
Toni Osseck
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 10:08pm 11-25-24
I oppose everything about this development in this area. Truly bad decision for our neighborhood, and equestrians. NOT safe. 1ANL:
Taj S:.../
Location:
Submitted At: 9:40pm 11-25-24
This project is fundamentally wrong for the location. Please do the right thing and oppose this project.
Stephanie Groves
Location: ' 3URBANK
Submitted At: 7:26pm 11-25-24
The proposal to build an apartment complex at a tight residential corner and the entrance to the horse trails leading to Griffith Park and the Equestrian Center should be rejected out of hand. Multiple independent assessments, NOT HIRED BY THE DEVELOPER, are imperative before any such proposal is further entertained.
The public safety risks alone warrant an immediately rejection. This street corner and the Mariposa bridge are heavily used by pedestrians, children, equestrians. To build a condo/apartment building in that location is nothing short of reckless toward community safety. Thanks.
Roy Simison
Location: BURBANK
Submitted At: 6:55pm 11-25-24
Wrong location dangerous to equestrian neighborhood
Frank Vermeulen
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 10:50am 11-25-24
This resolution for construction of a 5 story complex next to an industrial site and in a neighborhood dedicated to single family homes is the worst possible development. It does not meet SB35 standards, it is dangerous to joggers, dog walkers, people with horses, emergency workers. There are no benefits of these condos whatsoever. It is time consuming and expensive to point out the obvious to the unknowing.
Ruben Procopio
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 10:47pm 11-24-24
City Council, this project remains a terrible idea and is completely unnecessary in this location. There are lots of places to build that will not destroy a neighborhood, habitat and equestrian lifestyle that remains one of Burbank's unique attractions. The project does not meet the legal requirements. You should say no to it.
Linda Besssin
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 2:27pm 11-23-24
I am urging the Council to approve the resolution regarding the multifamily residential project at 910 South Mariposa Street. This project started as an office park and a small but vocal group refused to consider that. Then there was a proposed 23 apartment development, and these same people sued to revoke the City approval, forcing all of us to pay the legal fees. Now the developer is trying to salvage the project. The law is on his side.
We need to stop wasting staff time and our tax dollars due to a group that refuses to understand that we are not here to give in to their temper tantrums.
Shirley OtisGreen
Location: Burbank
Submitted At: 8:47pm 11-21-24
As a resident of the Burbank Rancho, I am concerned about this proposal, as it appears that safe public access to the Equestrian Bridge over the LA River will be severely impacted by this development. The proposal to enlarge Mariposa to two lanes and to build a equestrian trail (but only along their site?), gives no timeline for these necessary elements to appear. Additionally, the ability of the Studio Rentals to safely operate during construction appears to be significantly impacted. Horses act unpredictably to loud equipment, increasing the risk of injury to themselves and their riders.