Search

By Lookout Staff

October 16 – Recognizing that nature alone does not a great place make, the American Planning Association has picked Santa Monica State Beach as one of the nation’s ten great public spaces, thanks in large part to human intervention.

The spaces chosen by the association “exemplify exceptional character and highlight the role planners and planning have had in shaping spaces into something great,” City officials said in a statement.

The 3.5-mile-long beach – which extends from malibu to Venice -- is conducive to recreation and social interaction, is accessible to all and is committed to protecting the environment and preserving history, officials said.

“Santa Monica’s beach with its colorful beach culture and its incredible beauty plays a critical role in defining who we are as a community,” said Santa Monica Mayor Herb Katz. “It has shaped the growth of Santa Monica over time and continues to be our greatest natural asset.”

The beach, which covers nearly 250 acres, is lined by a series of linear parks, some featuring historic pergolas and gazebos, native landscaping and iconic palm trees. Among the main attractions are Chess Park, the original Muscle Beach and the South Beach Promenade, as well as the winding bike path.

“We’re excited to select Santa Monica State Beach as one of this year’s great public spaces,” said APA Executive Director Paul Farmer, FAICP.

The nine other APA 2008 Great Public Spaces are: Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza, Prescott, AZ; Union Station, Washington, DC; Central Park, New York City, NY; West Side Market, Cleveland, OH; Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, OR; Mellon Square, Pittsburgh, PA; Waterplace Park, Providence, RI; Waterfront Park, Charleston, SC; and Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, VT.