Bellaire Avenue Park Reopens After 2020 Fire

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA — A North Hollywood playground that was nearly destroyed by a fire last year officially reopened for the community. Councilman Paul Krekorian celebrated the return of the park in a ribbon cutting ceremony toward the end of May, speaking to the public while kids played on the newly restored playground behind his podium.

"At the time we cut the ribbon on this park back [in 2010], we were still in the middle of the great recession," Krekorian said. "Recreation & Parks had suffered so many losses, and we lost a lot of great people who serviced our community. Throughout that time, Recreation & Parks has not had enough resources to meet the needs of our communities. And yet, day in and day out, it's these men and women who make it possible for us to enjoy these parks."

The pocket park includes a shaded play structure with a slide, matching game and more. It's located at 7960 Bellaire Ave. in North Hollywood, around the corner from Saticoy Elementary School.

"Last summer, the park was nearly destroyed in a devastating fire," Krekorian added. "My office immediately contacted the Department of Recreation and Parks, which worked with its usual dedication and efficiency to make the site available again to neighborhood kids, many of whom attend nearby Saticoy Elementary School."

"The shiny, new play area is ready just in time for the community to enjoy as we all start to emerge from the pandemic," he said.