Urge LADWP to install a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to their 61’ tall Pole-Top Distribution Station; A 7’ tall Pad-Mounted System.

The Los Angeles Department of Water & Power is in the process of installing a Pole Top Distribution Station near the intersection of Sunset & Marquez in the heart of the Pacific Palisades. LADWP was in the process of installing this system without the required Coastal Approvals when they were halted by the Coastal Commission, and are now seeking the necessary Coastal Development Permit for this construction. 

As homeowners and concerned members of the neighborhood, we firmly oppose the issuance of this Coastal Development Permit. The station is a hulking 61' tall industrial blight which is detrimental to the character and visual resources of our neighborhood. Instead of a Pole-Top Distribution Station, we urge LADWP to install a pad-mounted system. The adjacent property owners have offered an easement for the installation of a pad-mounted system which negates any concerns about necessary space for the installation.

We are not requesting that the power system be relocated - we are simply requesting that it be placed on a pad-mounted system as this is clearly the best solution for our community. Our goal is to be reasonable. If the installation must occur, then it should take the form of a more aesthetically pleasing alternative. This has been confirmed as viable by professional engineering consultants. This is the right solution for our neighborhood and is respectful to the visual resources of this Coastal community. Ignoring the best option (padmount) for the pole-top option is shockingly short-sighted and bad for our community.

LADWP intends to install 2-3 more pole-top distribution stations throughout the Palisades community in the next few years. Now is the time to take a stand and push for a padmounted solution that can be the template for all future installations!

You can see a rendering comparing the pole top station to a pad-mounted option via this link.