The man-made Rowena Reservoir has officially been drained for inspection and it looks pretty barren without its usual pristine water. The six-acre park, which sits between Los Feliz and Silver Lake at the corner of Rowena Street and Hyperion Avenue, has been dubbed by residents as “Fantasy Island.” According to the Eastsider, the drainage is temporary, and the water will be replenished beginning early November.

Unlike most of the parks in Los Angeles, Rowena Ponds has been closed off to the public for over two decades. After being emptied back in 1991 due to hazardous water, DWP has since spent about $14 million in park restorations, complete with a makeover and a new 10-million gallon underground water tank.

Though passersby can usually catch a glimpse of the park’s impressive landscaping and cascading waterfall behind tall green fencing, many residents believe the city should open the space as a public area. Earlier this year, DWP’s Chief Operating Officer Marty Adams suggested that opening the park to the public may be possible after thorough assessment and testing. However, officials have warned that the high-voltage materials located within the park are safety hazards for pedestrians. 

Now that Rowena Reservoir has been emptied, DWP can proceed to clean out accumulated organic materials in the pond’s filtration system and liners, do some minor maintenance work, and restore the water for better contaminant control.