la dpw engineering newsletter

No. 11-09 March 9, 2011

Three Ribbon Cuttings and a Groundbreaking Held at Parks Throughout the City

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Cynthia M. RuizPaula A. DanielsSteven T. NutterValerie Lynne ShawAndrea Alarcón

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City Engineer Gary Lee Moore speaking at the Lafayette Park Recreation Center Dedication.Photos by JuanCarlos Chan, Recreation & Parks Dept.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa leads the ribbon cutting at Lafayette Park. BOE team: Daniel Tse, Jaime Contreras, Gary Lee Moore, Laker great Norm Nixon, Jose Fuentes, and Neil Drucker.

Lafayette Park Recreation CenterCommunity members turned out to celebrate the grand opening of the new Lafayette Park Recreation Center at 625 South Lafayette Park Place, LA 90057, in the Rampart District. Among City officials attending were Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilmember Herb J. Wesson, Jr., Recreation & Parks Commission President Barry A. Sanders, Department of Recreation & Parks General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, and City Engineer Gary Lee Moore.

The Lafayette Park Recreation Center is a 17,700 square foot project for the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, partially funded by the non-profit organization Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), via a grant from the Everychild Foundation. HOLA will share the building with the City. The project mate-rialized in response to demands by a growing neighborhood whose needs outgrew the exist-ing 3,700 square foot senior center.

The building is located on a sloping site and a ramp connecting the lobby to the gym works as a main circulation spine down the slope. It is expressed in a modern structure that houses a new gymnasium, a lobby and class-rooms. Additional classrooms, kitchen, and lounge were placed in the existing building.

The project is designed to achieve Lead-ership in Energy and Environmental Design certification. LEED features include the use of

recycled and sustainable materials, glass on a large portion of the gymnasium’s north wall to provide natural light and ventilation.

This newly renovated, state-of-the-art, recreation center will house joint Recreation and Parks, and HOLA educational, cultural, athletic, and arts programs.

The design was by Kanner Architects and the contractor was Western Alta Construction, Inc. Prop K provided most of the funding,

with additional funds coming from Quimby and HOLA.

Congratulations go to Recreational and Cultural Facilities Program Manager Neil Drucker; Project Managers: Jaime Contreras, David Takata; Construction Management Divi-sion Head Jose Fuentes; Construction Manag-ers: Daniel Tse, Hoi Luc, Hamid Navid; and everyone else who was involved in making the project a success.

Engineering Newsletter - 3/9/11

Ribbon cuttings marked the opening of the new play area and equipment at Norman O. Houston Park. Photos by JuanCarlos Chan

Dedication of Outdoor Improvements at Norman O. Houston Park

City Engineer Gary Lee Moore speaking at the Norman Houston Park dedication.

On March 4, 2011, Councilmember Bernard Parks led the dedication ceremony for the Nor-man O. Houston Park Outdoor Improvements, located at 4800 South La Brea, LA 90008.

BOE’s Architectural Division worked with the community and tried to create a design that acknowledged the park users desire for additional fitness opportunities and other enhancements.

The design took advantage of the park’s shape and length to create a half-mile natural surface jogging path that borders the part. A popular addition is the installation of a fit-ness equipment circuit in the north portion of the park. The imaginative design of the new children’s play equipment was commented on favorably and includes a resilient surfacing.

Picnic tables and benches, along with the new landscaping that added 25 new large canopy trees, including sycamores and oaks, add to the welcoming ambiance for park patrons. Also part of the project was solar se-curity lighting and a smart irrigation system.

Recreation & Parks Department forces completed the construction.

The park is named after Norman Oliver Houston, who, in 1975 was honored as a “Pio-neer of Black industry” by both then Mayor Tom Bradley and Governor Edmund “Pat” Brown. He was the co-founder of the largest black-owned insurance company in the West and also co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Broadway Federal Savings and Loan Association, which in 1980 was the largest black-owned Savings and Loan in California. A commemorative plaque dedicated to Nor-man O. Houston is located at one of the main access points to the jogging path.

City Engineer Gary Lee Moore recognized Architectural Division staff in his speech: Mahmood Karimzadeh, Reza Bagherzadeh, Willis Yip, and Nishith Dhandha.

New jogging path at Norman Houston Park


On February 17, 2011, the weather cooper-ated with a half-day window of clear blue sky to accommodate the Grand Opening of the Lincoln Park Gateway. Councilmember Ed P. Reyes led the celebration before a cheerful and excited crowd. Bill Lee, Senior Archi-tect, represented the Bureau of Engineering as one of the featured speakers. Community members, historic preservation groups, and City officials were wowed by how the site was transformed, as it was unveiled for the first time that morning. Many had fun trying to decipher which of the glazed decorative ter-racotta tiles on the fountain and benches were new and which were original historic tiles.

Built in 1931 in the Depression-era Art Deco style, the Gateway entrance features four major pylons topped with an electric lantern, six glazed terracotta tile benches, a terracotta drinking fountain, and a main ornamental fountain with a water spout. These features are connected by patterned ornamental walls.

Over the years, the Gateway became severely dilapidated and a complete public eyesore. Twenty layers of lead-based, peel-ing paint and various plaster patches marred the walls, and in some areas entire walls had collapsed. There was neither electricity nor running water to service the Gateway’s defunct features; the lanterns were missing, the drinking fountain became an ashtray, and the main fountain lacked a pumping system and became a planter. The challenge was to restore the structure to its original appearance per the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the treatment of historic properties.

Funds of $583,433 were provided by the State’s Proposition 40 grant. The funds were frozen for more than a year due to the State budget crisis. Last year the funds were thawed but the original due date was not extended, leaving only four months to complete the

project. At the time, the project lacked con-struction plans, permits, and a strategy.

The Bureau employed a fast-track construc-tion system and teamed with the Department of General Services, which served as General Contractor. While the workers were mobiliz-ing and performing demolition work, the design team worked on the plans and permits. The design team worked under pressure to always stay one step ahead of the construction work and provided all information needed in the field. ICF International provided historic preservation design support. Subcontractors Commercial Paving & Coating, California Marble & Tile, Native Tile, One Source Elec-trical, Prudential Lighting, Signature Lighting,

Councilmember Ed P. Reyes cuts the ribbon for the restored Lincoln Park Historic Gateway. Bill Lee/BOE-Architectural Division, Kevin Regan/ Department of Recreation & Parks, and community members celebrate the dedication.

Lincoln Park Gateway Project Delivered a Year Early

Spectra provided support in construction.Councilmember Ed P. Reyes was so

overjoyed with the outcome of the project that he presented a Certificate of Recogni-tion to the Project Team. Kudos go to the Architectural Division’s Principal Architect Mahmood Karimzadeh, Senior Architect Bill Lee, Landscape Architect Joan Kaplan, Structural Engineer Nasser Razepoor, Archi-tectural Associates Herb Guevara & Pradeep Renade, Electrical Engineer Saro Dersaroian, Mechanical Engineer Shawn Farzan, and Architectural Intern Ali Sykes. Congrats also to the Geotechnical Engineering Division’s Group Manager Christopher Johnson and CE Associate Curtis Gee.

2011 Restoration: The drinking fountain was restored; walls recon-structed; lanterns replicated; planters re-landscaped with non-invasive flora; decomposed granite paving replaced non-original asphalt; and the fountain head and pump system were replaced.

2011 Restoration: Glazed decorative terracotta tiles were cleaned and replicated; walls and pylons were re-plastered to include original fluted details; the sidewalk was re-paved to match its original color & texture, and an all new infrastructure was installed to service the Gateway’s now functioning features.


BOE was well represented at the Potrero Canyon Groundbreaking.

Groundbreaking Held for Potrero Canyon Park Phase I

Councilmember Bill Rosendahl gives a thumbs up to the Potrero Canyon project with City Engineer Gary Lee Moore. In back are Recreation & Parks Assistant General Manager Kevin Regan and BOE Project Manager Gene Edwards.

On February 24, 2011, a groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark the start of con-struction of the Potrero Canyon Park Phase I - Elkus Pardee Slope Repair, 15101 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA. It is north of Pacific Coast Highway Between Chautauqua Boulevard and Temescal Canyon Road.

The project proposes to construct the fol-lowing:• The initial Phase will stabilize the slope

below the residences at 211 and 231 Alma Real Drive.

• Future phases will stabilize the canyon walls

• Control surface water runoff• Create a natural park with approximately

8 acres of riparian habitat• Vegetation within the park boundaries will

be California natives• Hiking trails will be constructed within

the park that will connect the Palisades Recreation Center in the north to Pacific Coast Highway and the beach.

The Potrero Canyon project is approximately 45.7-acres overall and the canyon has a long history of landslides and canyon wall instability, and as a result, many homes and properties along the canyon rim have been damaged. This first phase of construction for $2.6 million will stabilize a 4-acre portion of the canyon, and marks the restart of the park project. Landscaping for this first phase will follow with a subsequent contract.

Later phases of the project will complete the stabilization of the rest of the canyon, and create a park with a natural setting. The park will be landscaped with native California vegetation and will include approximately an 8-acre area with native riparian vegetation.

Hiking trails will extend from the Palisades Recreation Center to Pacific Coast Highway and the beach. BOE will work with the com-munity in the near future for input on the designs for the later phases.

A portion of the project will be funded by proceeds from the City’s sale of land along the rim of the canyon. There has been active involvement by the Potrero Canyon Citizen Advisory Board, which meets monthly to work with the Palisades community on the park plans. The design is by Bureau of En-gineering staff and the contractor is Calex

Engineering.Congratulations go to Project Manager

Gene Edwards; Project Coordinator Robert Hancock; Project Geologist Mark Oborne; Project Geotechnical Engineer Ben Moore; Construction Engineer Michael Womack; Staff Geologist Eric Noreen; Norman Mundy, En-vironmental Documentation; Michael Joyce, Survey; Jane Adrian, Landscape Architect; Richard Fisher, Landscape Architect; and everyone else involved in the project, on reaching this important milestone.

Gary Lee Moore speaking at the ground-breaking.


Public Works Public Affairs Office press release:LOS ANGELES (March 4, 2011) - The City of Los Angeles will begin construction on the Coastal Interceptor Relief Sewer (CIRS), a new wastewater pipe along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in the Pacific Palisades, on Monday, March 7. Southbound traffic will be impacted intermittently beginning next week through the end of 2012. Work will begin at the south end of the project, by the Santa Monica-Los Angeles city border near the Annenberg Community Beach House, and continue heading north to just south of Temescal Canyon Road.

From March 7 through March 11, work-ers will close up to two southbound lanes along PCH between Entrada Drive and the Annnenberg Community Beach House at night. Survey work will transpire from 9:00 pm to 5:00 am. One southbound lane will remain open at all times; no impacts to the northbound traffic are expected. All traffic lanes will reopen in time for the morning rush hour. Work impacting highway traffic will cease temporarily for one month until sewer installation begins on April 11.

The new 4,500-foot pipeline will run alongside the existing Coastal Intercep-tor Sewer, and will provide increased flow capacity from the eight newly-completed Santa Monica Bay low flow diversions to the Hyperion Treatment Plant. These infrastructure developments will keep urban runoff from flowing out into the ocean during year-round dry weather, helping the city comply with water quality regulations.

Regular work hours are 7:00 am through 4:00 pm and 9:00 pm through 5:00 am, Mon-days through Fridays and some Saturdays. At least two southbound traffic lanes will remain open during daytime work, and at least one lane at night. Other construction impacts include dust, noise, loss of beach parking during the non-summer months, and a detour option for cyclists. PCH users are encouraged to consider alternate routes. Project updates are available on Twitter @PCHPartners.

The $10-million pipe’s design and con-struction is managed by the Bureau of En-gineering. City Engineer Gary Lee Moore explains, “The CIRS will complement the work of our enhanced low flow diversions that keep urban runoff out of Santa Monica Bay. We ap-preciate everyone’s cooperation as we deliver this necessary infrastructure development that will promote clean water, protect the ocean, and render critical wastewater services to Los Angeles residents for years to come.”

Enrique Zaldivar, general manager of the Department of Sanitation responsible for the development, operation and maintenance of the city’s wastewater and stormwater system, says, “As a coastal city, the ocean is a unique

and precious resource for Los Angeles. It is one of our largest draws and assets. Therefore, we Angelenos are taking every measure to protect it, and that is exactly what this project will do.” He adds, “When voters approved Proposition O in 2004, they confirmed their commitment to the environment. We are pleased to share their sustainability priorities, and are excited to build the CIRS and several other stormwater projects to meet Los Angeles’ environmental goals, and regulatory compliance for clean water.”

The Department of Sanitation provides essential clean water services to Los Angeles residents and currently operates two separate wastewater systems–one for sewage from homes and businesses, and another for storm-water that flows on our streets. The latter also serves a flood control function and therefore conveys urban runoff straight to the ocean unfiltered. The recent implementation of the low flow diversions at eight different coastal sites, however, will divert the urban runoff to the sewer system, except during rain events. This will help lead to less ocean pollution, and fulfillment of regulations for total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) implemented by the State Water Resources Control Board.

The CIRS and the low flow diversions are funded by the voter-approved Proposition O Clean Water Bond. The $500-million bond finances 32 stormwater improvement proj-ects across Los Angeles to help keep the city comply with state and federal water quality mandates for its water bodies.

The Bureau of Contract Administration will ensure that the project is built according to design and specifications. The work will be performed by Blois Construction, an Oxnard-based construction company hired by the City of Los Angeles. For more information about this project, visit www.LAPropO.org or call the Department of Public Works Public Affairs Office at (213) 978-0333.

Sewer Work on PCH BeginsNew pipeline to keep stormwater out of ocean

Save Energy at WorkAll employees are reminded that they should do the following:Before You Leave Work• Unplug electronic devices when they are

not in use. Or plug everything into a power strip and switch it off after shutting down equipment.

• Close drapes and shades to limit the amount of heat that comes in during the Summer and to minimize heat from escap-ing in the Winter.

• Turn off all printers, copiers, fax machines, kitchen equipment and lights.

• Shut down computers when possible. Be sure to turn off monitors, too.


Bureau of Engineering Group Photos

1st Row, l to r: Richard Fernandez, Luis Montemayor, Sepala Amarasena, Lisa Ha, Randy Price, Essam Amarragy, Ann-Kristin Karling, Jerry Del Rosario, Vincent Sam. 2nd Row: Michael Lee, Patti Gin, Judy Stockli, Doris Panaligan, Ricardo Najera, Nem Respicio, Earl Horne. 3rd Row: Brian Yoder, Mark Nuesca, Nathan Neumann, Nancy Ballard, Rudy Preciado, Eric Moore, Ron Chastain. 4th Row: Brian Bennett, Mariann Karish, Henry Cheney, Mas Fujinami, Jimmy Lam, Kirk Bishop. 5th Row: Raul Virgen, Kevin Eick, James Yano. Not Pictured: Rikki Bilderback, Selma Chit, Ed Cortes, Les Fleming, Raul Garcia, Cathy Georgescu, Elroy Johnson, Philips Nguyen.

Mapping GroupCreates, maintains, updates and distributes the Bureau’s centralized Geographic Information System’s data, including the land base, street centerline, addresses, sewer and wye data, and storm drainage data; Performs data analysis to support various engineering planning and de-sign functions; Prepares customized maps, upon request, for the Bureau, City Attorney, Council, Mayor and other city departments; Programs and supports online permit applications; Maintains and updates Navigate LA and other web based tools that utilize geographic information. Maintains the City’s official land ownership records.

Real Estate GroupThe Real Estate Group provides all necessary real property acquisition services for all Public Works infrastructure projects. The Group has a Caltrans Level-3 prequalification making it the only real property group in the City that can certify federally funded right-of-way projects. Services provided include pre-design consultation, right of way project manage-ment, appraisal, negotiation, acquisition, relocation assistance, property management, title examination, consultant oversight, escrow and right of way instruction. This group also processes dedications, vacations, quitclaims, and irrevocable offers to dedicate property to the City.

1st Row, ( to r: Myung Choi, Cheryl Lewis, Uriel Jimenez, Sam Wong, Augusto “Gus” Parcero. 2nd Row: Paul Burke, David Castillo, Robert Castillo, Okey Njoku


1st Row, l to r: Arrash Agahi, Jerome Anderson, Ray Jadali, Ted Allen, Vince Jones, James Zabala, Annabel Nuno, Nga Nguyen, Harry Tso, Rolf Clever. 2nd Row: Cherry Nicodemus, John Sosa, Miu-Ying Tam, Charles Entz, John Talcott, Delia Velasquez, Dominic Buenaventura, Reynaldo Sisson, Armand Pascua. 3rd Row: Ralph Shovlin, Roman Barajas, Robert Mancuso, Laurence Tillett, Roxanne Villa, Doris McLaurin, Jerry Pointer, Kenneth Montgomery, Dante Henderson. Not Pictured: Bettye Blevins, Ivory Hudson, Maryanne Yee, Raymond Zabala, Terrie Reed, Nusrat Shermin.

Project Award and Control Division Prepares, completes and performs a quality assurance review for all bid packages to advertise construction contracts, and prepares construc-tion contract award reports to the Board of Public Works. Serves as the Bureau’s expert in MBE/WBE/DBE requirements and the Mandatory Subcontracting Minimums for construction contracts. Maintains the Bureau’s standard contracts for construction projects and personal services, and is the custodian of record for all Bureau of Engineering technical audits. Maintains a public counter for distribution of bid documents, plan holder lists, lists of projects out to bid and BOE plans. Serves as the Bureau’s utility coordination expert and is responsible for coordination of utility work for construction projects. Maintains the Uniform Project Reporting System (UPRS), which reports and updates the scope, budget and schedule for the design and construction of all BOE projects. Maintains the Personal Services Contracting System (PSCS), which reports and updates the current status of all BOE consultant contracts.

Proposition O authorized $500 million of general obligation bonds for projects to protect public health by cleaning up pollution, including bacteria and trash, in the City’s wa-tercourses, beaches and the ocean, to meet Federal Clean Water Act re-quirements. Proposition O will also fund improvements to protect water quality, provide flood protection, and increase water conservation, habitat protection, and open space. The bonds allow the City to purchase property and/or improve municipal properties for projects that:• Protect rivers, lakes, beaches,

and the ocean• Conserve and protect drinking

water and other waters sources• Reduce flooding and use neigh-

borhood parks to decrease pol-luted runoff

• Capture, clean up, and reuse stormwater

The Proposition O Implementation Program manages the design and construction of these projects and coordinates the funding of projects managed by other agencies and other City departments or bureaus.

Proposition O Program, Clean Water Bond

1st Row, l to r: John Saldin, Andy Flores, Naushin Kamal, Salem Garawi, Kendrick Okuda, Iftekhar Ahmed, Monique Parker, Alfred Mata. 2nd Row: Wendy Young, Joanna Tesoro, Uyen Lam, Adam Coghill.


Thanks to Keushguerian & MoklebustThis letter was sent to Deputy City Engineer Michael E. Kantor:

February 11, 2011Re: Letter of Commendation, Christine Keush-guerian & Burt Moklebust, Valley District OfficeDear Mr. Kantor,I am writing to day to thank you for hiring two good hardworking employees and then creating an environment where they can do their job to protect the City while assisting property owners’ and contractors to complete the projects necessary to revitalize the City. Giacopuzzi Plaza, at the NWC of Vanowen St. and Corbin Ave., is an existing shopping center with operating businesses. Christine and Burt made sure the work was completed properly while assisting us to open the new 15,670 square foot CVS Drugstore on schedule. When we encountered a last minute surprise, they made the extra effort to help us get the store opened al while maintaining public safety and insuring high quality work. Please accept these congratulations on a job well done from me, the contractor and the property owners.

Sincerely,Dennis MitchemMitchem Consulting

Cubicles are designed to enhance interac-tion and help companies maximize space. But because partitioned environments lack privacy, it’s critical that cube dwellers develop a healthy respect for their co-workers.Here are 10 ways to build strong bonds and foster productivity when working with col-leagues in close quarters.1. Be a courteous guest You’d never barge into another person’s

house unannounced. Likewise, pretend that cubicles have front doors. Before stepping into a colleague’s work area, always knock gently on the side of the entrance. This allows the individual to signal whether he or she can afford to be disturbed at the moment. Consistently show that you respect others’ time and privacy, and people will return the favor.

2. Use your “library voice” In today’s deadline-driven workplace,

professionals must be able to concentrate on completing tasks without the constant fear of distraction. And there’s nothing quite as annoying as someone whose voice seems to always reach a deafening level. Whenever possible, use a quiet tone so you don’t disrupt others.

3. Curb casual conversations While socializing in the office is natural

and a great way to build camaraderie with co-workers, not everyone may want to know about the strange blind date you had last night. It’s unprofessional and unproductive to spend more than a few minutes talking about your personal life during office hours. Fill everyone in on the latest news at lunch or after work.

4. Stay home with the sniffles Suffering from an awful cold or flu? Control

those contagions. Do yourself and your co-workers a favor by staying home until you feel better. If you absolutely must come to work, be considerate and cautious when using communal office equipment. For instance, if you use the photocopier, clean it off with a disinfectant wipe immediately after completing your project.

5. Have good scents Be mindful of your neighbors’ noses before

you let your tuna casserole waft through the office. Your co-workers may not share your love of Calvin Klein cologne or cran-berry-scented candles, either.

6. Ask before borrowing Some people are protective of their office

supplies. Respect that. Always ask for per-mission prior to using someone’s stapler or raiding a co-worker’s supply of paper clips. What may seem like no big deal to you could be regarded as bothersome or disrespectful to others.

7. Avoid decor disasters Individuality is the spice of life. But err

on the side of caution when decorating

your workspace. For instance, don’t put up potentially offensive calendars or political posters that may alienate others. Also, think twice before posting that beach picture from your Cancun vacation.

8. Hit the right tune You may work best when the music is blast-

ing, but that doesn’t mean everyone shares the same strategy. Wear headphones whenever you listen to CDs or the radio. And be sure not to sing or hum along to the chorus, save those melodies for your morning shower.

9. Avoid phone faux pas If you must leave your cell phone on dur-

ing work hours, make sure that it is always with you and you have a standard, profes-sional-sounding ringtone. Your neighbors might not appreciate being started by “Dancing Queen” every 20 minutes. In addition, it’s rarely appropriate or neces-sary to use the speakerphone option in a cubicle environment.

10. Be Friendly In today’s fast-paced business environ-

ment, we sometimes forget the basics of professionalism. When you are away from your cube and pass someone in the hall, say hello whether they are a friend or stranger. You both work for the same organization and you never know whose assistance you might need some day.

Exhibiting courtesy, tact and empathy in the workplace will help you build productive relationships.

Cubicle Courtesy

Thanks to the Privately Financed ProgramThe following e-mail was sent to the City Engineer:Tue, Jan 18, 2011 at 4:21 PMSubject: Thank You to DPW/BOE (B-Permit No. 204815)Mr. Moore:On behalf of our client, The Dinerstein Com-panies/Warner Center Apartments, LP, I am taking this opportunity to say a special thank you for the outstanding assistance that your incredible staff provided during the build-ing permit and construction process for our client’s new, 438-unit apartment project in Warner Center. Specifically, we want to rec-ognize, in no particular order, Michael Kan-tor, Moe Irilian, Carol Hare, Mati Laan and Ali Nahass as the key Bureau of Engineering personnel who provided terrific service and support during this project. Clearly, they are a credit to your department and the entire City of Los Angeles.

Thank you, again, and please feel free to contact me directly with any questions or for additional information.

Best regards,Christopher MurrayRAA Inc.

Driver Pre-Trip InspectionsVehicle safety is one of the cornerstones of the Department of General Services’ vehicle maintenance program. Drivers of City vehicles must be reminded that they share in the re-sponsibility to ensure that the vehicle is in safe operating condition before use. This can be accomplished by adhering to the regularly scheduled “safety inspections” at Fleet Ser-vices’ shops and by performing daily driver pre-trip inspections on vehicles.

Everyday before the vehicle is operated, the driver is tasked to make sure the following items are checked:• Windshields and windows are clean and

free of cracks.• Tires appear properly inflated and free of

embedded items.• Mirrors are intact and adjusted.• All exterior lighting is operable.• All warning lamps on the instrument

panel are functioning and not indicating failure.

• Visibly check for any fluids that may be leaking on the ground other than conden-sation from the air conditioner.

• Perform a rolling foot brake test and ensure that the parking brake holds.

As always, drivers that possess a commercial driver’s license and are operating a commer-cial vehicle must comply with all mandated California Highway Patrol vehicle pre-trip inspections.


Emergency Info At HandAre you prepared for the next disaster? Regard-less of when the disaster hits, the Bureau of Engineering, (BOE) must be ready to respond, and you will need to determine quickly who is available. Odds are about 3:1 that the next disaster will happen when you are not at work. How will you contact your supervisor? Your employees? At home and at work, you should have ready access to the home or cell phone numbers of your employees, your supervisor, and the BOE emergency information number: (213) 485-5268. The following information will be posted on the intranet in the BOE Forms Library in wallet-card sized format.

Bureau of EngineeringEmergency Instructions for All Employees

1) Disaster occurs while at work:a) Ensure your personal safety as well as

your co-workers.b) Secure your work location.c) If necessary, report to designated evacu-

ation location or assigned emergency location.

d) Wait for instructions.e) If instructed, go to an undamaged Bu-

reau of Engineering worksite.2) Disaster occurs during non-working

hours:a) Assure your safety and your family’s

safety.b) Contact your supervisor: ___________c) If supervisor not available, call BOE’s

Emergency Info number: (213) 485-5268 for recorded instructions.

d) Monitor news media: TV: Ch 2, 4, 5, 7, 11 13 or CNN

Radio: Los Angeles: 640, 790, 980 or 1070 AM

Orange County: 870 AM and 1050 AM Ventura: 990 AM San Bernardino: 590 AMe) Adhere to your normal work schedules

at regular reporting locations unless in-structed to do otherwise. You may need to report to an alternate location if it is impossible to get to your location

3) Personal/Family PreparednessAs an employer, the Bureau of Engineering is responsible for educating personnel about the importance of personal and family emergency preparedness. Personnel, especially those as-signed to work units that perform critical func-tions, need to know what to do before, during and after disasters in order to be prepared in the work place and at home.

The Bureau’s Emergency Preparedness Center shall educate and prepare employees as individuals to prepare for and respond to disasters through periodic article in the Bureau Newsletter. Opportunities include the City Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program.

The Bureau does not currently have a re-unification plan or system for employees and family members to contact each other, or be contacted by designated personnel, to report on employee/family welfare.

Public Works Public Affairs Office press release:LOS ANGELES (February 11, 2011) - The City of Los Angeles will initiate this month the construction of a stormwater capture system in and around the Penmar Recreation Center grounds in Venice. The project will install: a diversion structure at Frederick Street; a new pipe connecting the storm drain to the sewer system; and a detention tank at the west end of the recreation center grounds. This will capture year-round dry and wet weather run-off for beneficial reuse from the Rose Avenue storm pipe that currently draining straight to Venice Beach. Improved water quality, less beach closures, and water conservation are among the Penmar Water Quality Improve-ment Project’s primary objectives.

Construction hours are 7:00 am to 4:00 pm, Mondays through Fridays, with some work possible on Saturdays. The $14-million stormwater project, funded by the voter-ap-proved Proposition O Clean Water Bond, will also include the rehabilitation of three aging sewer reaches in the following Venice streets: Oakwood Avenue, Rialto Court, and Crescent Place.

Project design and construction are man-aged by the Department of Public Works Bureau of Engineering. City Engineer Gary Lee Moore says, “We are proud to work on a Proposition O project that will help the City achieve its environmental goals through stormwater pollution prevention.” He adds, “Our team of professionals is committed to ensuring that we build this project to the highest standards with the welfare of the com-munity in mind. We appreciate the Venice community’s patience as we complete our work.”

Construction impacts along Rose Avenue include traffic plans that will close the exist-ing westbound lane to accommodate work on the street along the side of the golf course. However, traffic will be shifted to the existing center turn lane, maintaining at least one lane of traffic in each direction. Frederick Street north of Rose Avenue will also be closed, and activities at the Recreation Center ball field will be relocated by the Department of Recreation and Parks to other facilities.

The Department of Public Works Bureau of Sanitation, responsible for maintaining Los Angeles’ stormwater infrastructure, conceptu-alized this project to intercept the stormwater from the Rose Avenue storm drain, pump it through a sewer line, a trash filter to remove contaminants, and into a 2.75-million gallon detention tank under the Penmar Recreation Center ball field for future irrigation use. Stormwater processes like this, called “storm-water best management practices,” are com-mon, and are being implemented at several locations including the Mar Vista Recreation Center, Garvanza Park and Temescal Canyon Park.

Enrique Zaldivar, director of the Bureau of Sanitation, says, “The Penmar Water Quality Improvement Project is one of many projects that will help the city of Los Angeles keep Santa Monica Bay clean. The health of our waterways and the ocean is a priority that we share with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the environmental community. We are excited to begin construction on an-other stormwater infrastructure improvement that will take us a step closer to full regulatory compliance for clean water.”

Construction on this stormwater improve-ment will continue through late 2012. The completed project will restore the Venice streetscape to its current condition.

For more information about this project, visit www.LAPropO.org or call the Depart-ment of Public Works Public Affairs Office at (213) 978-0333. For questions about impacts to the Penmar Recreation Center activities, please call the facility directly at (310) 396-8735.

Stormwater Diversion Construction Begins in Venice

Thanks to Admin ServicesThe following e-mail was sent to the City Engineer and Robert Kadomatsu, head of the Administrative Services Division:Wed, Jan 26, 2011 at 10:52 AMMr. Moore and Mr. Kadomatsu:On Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011 I completed the last of three presentations to Bureau of Engineering employees entitled: Resiliency During Organizational Changes: Making the Most of What You’ve Got. Over 700 employ-ees attended the presentations which began January 14, 2011. I believe the presentations were well received. Several people came up to me later with comments of appreciation and/or asked that copies of the presentation be sent to them.

I wanted to formally thank you for the op-portunity of addressing your Bureau. Getting that many employees together from various locations is quite a feat and I know it directly related to your support of my coming Mr. Moore. I also wanted to tell you how easy it was to work with Javlin Wells, Eleanor Vil-lanueva, Ron Daigle, and Glenn Morimoto. They all assisted me and the attendees with logistics and enabled the presentations to oc-cur without a hitch from start to finish. They are all so nice and made things very comfort-able for me. I also met Edwin, Javlin’s intern, and he was very helpful.

If there is anything else that Psychology Section can help you with, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Bonnita Wirth, Ph.D.Occupational PsychologistCity of Los Angeles Dept. of PersonnelMSD-Psychology Section


Notice No. 09Notice No. 09 dated February 8, 2011, titled Paid Sick Leave Review – Reporting Period September 27, 2009 through September 25, 2010 provided a list of paid sick leave usage for each division’s employees who exceeds the Department’s attendance review criteria. Also attached was an Attendance Review Report/Counseling Record form. Duplicate copies will be supplied as necessary or they also can be downloaded from the Bureau of Engineer-ing Intranet under Forms Library Application and listed in the Personnel Section.

Supervisors are requested to review sick usage and counsel employees in accordance with the guidelines set by the Department’s At-tendance Improvement Program. Although ab-sences accrued by an employee as a result of Family Medical Leave, or sick time associated with Bereavement Leave will show up on the computerized Sick Leave Audit Report, they should not be counted against the employee in determining whether or not an employee is to be counseled for attendance issues.

For further information and instructions on how to complete the form, refer to “Personnel Directive No. 38.” This directive can be found in the Public Works Management Manual, which is listed in the Distributed Info Section on the BOE Intranet.

Supervisors are also requested to be consistent when completing the Attendance Review Report/Counseling Record and to avoid instances where action is taken against employees who have used less sick hours or incidents than other employees in the Group. Additionally, supervisors are asked to verify that all dates shown on the computerized Sick Leave Audit Report are actual week days.

Explanations must be given when the “no action required” box is checked on the At-tendance Review Report/Counseling Record. While the employee does not sign the form if there is no action taken, the signatures of the supervisor and the next level manager are required.

Supervisors should remember that an employee’s name could continue to appear on the computer printout for a period of time. It’s not necessary to counsel that employee twice for the same incidents during the 12-month fiscal reporting period. It is also important for supervisors and managers to remember and sign the Attendance Review Report/Counsel-ing Record before it is given to the employee for signature.

The Attendance Review Report/Counseling Record form serves three key purposes.• It notifies the employee that his/her at-

tendance is of concern;• It generates discussion regarding the at-

tendance record and gives the employee the opportunity to explain it; and

• It documents the counseling action.

Supervisors should make it clear to the employee that the counseling session is not discipline. It is a review and discussion of the employee’s absence record because it exceeds the established Department criteria. If after discussion, the usage is judged unjustified or excessive, a warning or disciplinary ac-tion may follow, but the counseling session should not be perceived as punishment. Also, in reviewing the computer run, consider the overall pattern and the reasons for the use, not just the total number of occasions and hours.

The Attendance Review report for each employee must be completed and returned (along with a duplicate copy) to the Personnel Section of the Administrative Services Division by March 25, 2011.

If you wish further assistance filling out the form, or to discuss the Attendance Improve-ment Program, please contact Ray Rueda at (213) 485-5122.

Notice No. 10Notice No. 10 dated February 22, 2011, titled Submission of Board Report Packages states that the most current Bureau of Engineering (BOE) Board Report Procedure Manual and Board Report Templates have been uploaded to the BOE Intranet to assist in the submission of all board report packages. You can find the Board Reports Procedure Manual by clicking the link for “Technical Document Center” and the Board Report Templates by clicking the link for “Forms Library Application.”

All draft board report packages that are submitted to the Board Report Unit must be accompanied with a copy of its correspond-ing template. Please be advised to always use the most current template. Providing a copy of the corresponding template will assist in ensuring the appropriate format is being used and that Board Reports will be comprehensive and consistent in the information provided. All draft board report package submittals that do not include a copy of its corresponding template will be returned by the Board Report Unit. If you are writing a board report that does not fit one of the templates, please submit a memo stating that circumstance.

The Project Award and Control Division will continue to be the initial reviewer of all draft submittals and will assist in ensuring packages are in compliance with procedures specified in the BOE Board Report Procedure Manual.

Additional subjects for Board Report Tem-plates may be considered to be included in the BOE Forms Library Application. If you have any questions, please contact Fatima Robin-son, Office Services Section, Administrative Division, at (213) 847-0689 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Board Report TemplatesThe following is a list of subjects that have templates currently available. Note: At this time, Real Estate only has samples.Bid and Award Phase• Contract Award – Federal & Non-Federal

Projects• Reject All BidsConstruction Phase• Advertise & Award Project Off On-Call

List• Emergency Change Order(s) > Equal to

$100,000• Increase Change Order Budget Ceiling• Increase Project Budget & Supplemental

Agreement Change Order• Increase Project Budget and Issue Change

OrderMemorandum of Understanding• Execute MOU with Dept. or Agency• Execute MOU with GSDPersonal Services Contract• Award Sole Source Task Order• Execute Amendment to Contract• Execute Personal Service Contract• Execute PQOC Contract• Execute Sole Source Contract• Issue a Task Order ($>100,000)• Issue and Negotiate RFP• Issue RFQ and Negotiate PQOC• Negotiate Sole Source Contract• Revise Task OrderPrivately Financed Program• Relinquishment of Rights in Future

Streets• Request for Various and/pr Hardship Waiv-

ers• Revocable Permission to Encroach into the

Public WayReal Estate• Authority to Acquire & Pay for Real Prop-

erty in Fee• Authority to Acquire & Pay for Temporary

Construction Easement• Authority to Acquire All Rights, Claims and

Interest (Billboard)• Authority to Acquire right-of-Way for a

Specific Project• Authority to Pay Appraisal Fees Up to

$5,000 on Owner Ordered Appraisals• Extension of TCE Period & Compensation

to Property Owner• Increase in City Engineer’s Pre-Approved

Deletion Authority

Bureau of Engineering Notices

Newsletter SubmissionsWe are always pleased to receive submis-sions for the Newsletter. There are a few tips that we’d like to be kept in mind. If you have photos, please send them in their native for-mat, i.e., jpg or tif. Do not place photos in a word processing document. Again, thanks to everyone for their contributions.


Construction Management Association of America, So Cal Chapter Seminars The Construction Management Association of America, Southern California Chapter has announced the following seminars:

Product Substitutions and Performance Specifications - Avoiding Disputes Over Whether the Owner Got What It Paid For on Thursday, March 10, 2011, 8:00 - 8:30 am Registration & Continental Breakfast, 8:30 - 10:30 am, at The Grand Conference Center 4101 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA Direc-tions: 562-426-0555.

This presentation will provide a guide on what can be done by the owner, design professionals, and contractors when specified products are substituted with others. Any time a product is substituted for one called for by the contract documents, the risk arises that the owner will not get what it paid for, that the product is not substantially equivalent to the one specified, that construction problems will arise, and that claims and litigation will result. This seminar explains what can be done to avoid disputes. Performance specifications are another way owners seek to ensure they get what they paid for. This presentation will discuss ways the project participants can specify and comply with clear and appropriate performance specifications.Substitution of Specified Materials• Design specifications • Design professionals’ liability for improper

design specifications • Owners’ implied warranty of availability

of specified materials • “Restrictive” product specifications • Evaluation of bid responses that substitute

specified products • Owners’ right to approve substitutions

under AIA and AGC contracts • Material shortages – who bears the risk? • Risk of losing LEED certification by substi-

tuting specified products • Effect of voluntary owner changes, de-

laysPerformance Specifications• Delegating design responsibilities to the

contractor • Liability for failure to achieve performance

requirements • Implied warranty of design adequacy to

performance specificationsSeminar Instructors: Derek Simpson & Chris-tian Carrillo Morris Polich & Purdy LLP

Panel Members:The Owner: Shaun ShahrestaniChief Harbor Engineer, Port of LAThe CM: Rick Panos AIAProgram Director, ParsonsThe Designer: Dean Vlahos, FAIA, NCARB, CCCA, LEED APPrincipal, DLR Group WWCOTThe Builder: Gust SoteropulosVice President, Webcor Builders

Claims - Liens, Stop Notices, Bonds, De-lay & Disruption, Termination on Thursday, April 14, 2011, 8:00 - 8:30 am. Registration & Continental Breakfast, 8:30 - 10:30 am, at The Grand Conference Center 4101 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA, Directions: 562-426-0555. Topics to be covered:Mechanic’s Liens, Stop Notices and Bonds• Preliminary Notices • Deadlines • Waivers and ReleasesClaims • Change Order Processing • Accord and Satisfaction Issues • Preserving Claims • Change Order Close Out • Use of the Audit ClauseDelay• What damages are available? • Proving Damages • Role of Liquidated DamagesTermination and Performance Bond Claims• What is a Valid Termination Claim?• Making a Claim on the Performance

Bond • Strategies for Dealing with Performance

Bond ClaimsSeminar Instructors: Larry Lubka & John Darling Hunt Ortmann Palffy Nieves Lubka Darling & Mah, Inc.

Breakfast of Champions - LA County DPW on May 5, 2011, 8:00 am Registration & Net-working, 8:30 - 9:30 am Presentation, at the Downtown LA Marriott, 333 S. Figueroa St. Assistant Director Jacob Williams will discuss his current perspective on the County of Los Angeles Capital Projects program accom-plishments. An outlook on current and future business opportunities, as well as a discussion of the role that alternate delivery models like Design Build are playing in the competitive environment ofour procurements.

Building Commissioning - The New Stan-dard - Why Owner’s Are Requiring It and How CM’s can Manage the Process, Incorporate Best Practices, and Enhance Owner Benefits on Thursday May 26, 2011, 8:00 - 8:30 am Registration & Continental Breakfast, 8:30 - 11:30 am Seminar, at The Grand Conference Center 4101 E. Willow Street Long Beach, CA.

As building MEP system become more sophisticated and control driven, determining their substantial completion becomes more difficult. More and more owners are requir-ing these systems be formally commissioned to ensure the project requirements are met and building systems are operating at optimal design performance. This seminar will focus on how the CM can use the commissioning process to validate substantial completion of the MEP systems as well as identify systems acceptance requirements early to take the guess work out of building acceptance. Join

us to learn about:• Owners requiring building commissioning

and capital program applications • Determining when MEP systems are sub-

stantially complete • Typical MEP critical path delays • Managing the Commissioning Agent

(CxA)• Scheduling commissioning and accep-

tance activities • Best Practices for MEP system check-outSeminar Instructors: Gary Cardamone, PE, Director of Construction Management, Port of Long Beach Warren Jacobs, University Ar-chitect, CSU Chancellor’s Office Jim Ogden, LEED AP, Principal of Sustainability, 3QC James Becker, PE, Principal of Commission-ing, 3QC

Cost of seminars is $60 for members and $100 for non-members. On-line registration is available at www.cmaasc.org.

Emergency ResponseAll employees should be aware of what is stated in Mayor’s Executive Directive EP-1:City Employee Responsibilities In the event of an emergency during normal working hours City employees shall remain at work and may be assigned duties that can be performed safely to assist in the emergency response and recovery.

The Mayor has sole authority to order a general release of City employees. General Managers may release individual employees as instructed by the Mayor and/or in ac-cordance with their department emergency plan.

Whenever an emergency occurs outside normal working hours, employees in public safety operations shall respond according to established departmental procedures. All other employees are directed to follow news media broadcasts and comply with instruc-tions issued for City employees or respond in accordance with established departmental procedures.

Employees who leave their assignment without authorization when emergencies occur during working hours, or who fail to comply with instructions issued outside of normal working hours may be subject to discipline.

Submittal of PapersThis is a reminder that employees must get the approval of their group manager and deputy/senior manager prior to submitting any abstract or paper for presentation at a professional conference.

We’d Like to Hear from YouIf you have any articles for the Newsletter, please e-mail them to [email protected] with a copy to Myrna Braithwaite ([email protected]) Administrative Services Division. Deadline for the next issue is Thursday, March 31, 2011.

Los Angeles City Department of Public WorksBureau of Engineering1149 South Broadway, Suite 700

Los Angeles, CA 90015http://eng.lacity.org

The Engineering Newsletter is published monthly by the Administrative Services Division for employees of the Bureau of Engineering.

Printed on Recycled Paper

Engineering VisionWe envision the Bureau of

Engineering as a competitive, world class, public service organization dedicated to delivering projects, programs, and services for Los Angeles in a timely and cost

effective manner which establishes us as the provider of choice to our

customers.

Cesar Chavez HolidayMonday, March 28, 2011, is a City holiday. Remember to mark your timesheet for that day as HO 8.0. Since the holiday is only for eight hours, those of you on the 9/80 schedule must adjust your hours accordingly within the same pay period. (Non-FLSA exempt employees can only adjust their hours within their defined work week.) Check with your division time-keeper if you have any questions.

PromotionsBradley Jenson, Civil Engineer PM I, WCE; Juila Moye, CE Associate III, BIP.

DeparturesRichard Itomura, Architect, retired, Zoo; Timothy Dodson, Field Engineering Aide, re-signed, Survey; Armen Kasper, Structural Engr Associate II, transfer to Bldg & Safety, CMD.

Internal TransferJeannie Park, Management Analyst II, from ASD to SSD.

Transfer OpportunitiesThe following transfer opportunity is available. If you are interested, contact the office below by Wednesday, March 16, 2011: Civil Engineering Associate II

SED Wastewater Design GroupCarolyn Reed 213 485-5414

In MemoriamOur sincere condolences go to Willie Owens, Administrative Services Division Work Order Unit, whose mother, Barbara Craver, passed away February 22, 2011. Services were held on February 28, 2011.

Passing of HarbyWe are sorry to report that retired Survey Supervisor Harold D. Harby passed away on October 8, 2010 at the age of 92, in Lake County, California. He had retired from the City after 33 years of service.

Free Tax PreparationThe City of Los Angeles Community Develop-ment Department FamilySource Centers (FSC) help families that need support with childcare, family needs, and other assistance to move them toward self-sufficiency, build flourish-ing communities and economic growth. The Community Development Department’s 21 Family Source Centers are serving as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) centers during this tax season. The Community Development Department is a proud supporter of the Earned Income Tax Credit Campaign.

If your combined household income was less than $50,000 last year, you can get your taxes done for free. That’s an average savings of about $300.

Get your money deposited directly into your checking account without waiting for a refund check. Just bring the following into your tax appointment:• A photo ID• A Social Security Card or Individual

Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) documentation

• W-2s, 1099s, and all other tax-related documents

• A voided check or savings account state-ment with bank routing numbers

• If you’re Married Filing Jointly, you’ll need to bring your spouse to sign your tax docu-ments

Get your taxes done where it’s most conve-nient for you – close to work, close to home, even close to transit. There are over 150 Locations

All of our tax preparers are fully certified, so you know you’re getting the quality tax help you need.

Based on your income and the number of children you have, you may qualify for a higher refund through the Earned Income Tax Credit. For more information or to schedule an appointment: visit www.eitc-la.com and click on “How to Qualify”

Dial 2-1-1 or visit www.eitc-la.com and enter your zip code to find the center near-est you.

CorrectionOur apologies. In the Geotechnical Engineer-ing Group photo Pedro Garcia’s name was mistakenly listed as “Pedro Gonzalez” in the February 9, 2011 BOE Newsletter.

Daffodil Days CampaignHeartfelt thanks to all BOE employees who participated in the American Cancer Society’s Daffodil Days Campaign for 2011, raising a total of $6,836. Despite the furloughs and tough economic times, BOE employees rose to the occasion and gave generously to this worthwhile cause. Once again, a great show of appreciation for all of those employees who went above and beyond to support the American Cancer Society. A huge pat on the back goes to the Environmental Engineer-ing Division, who, for the 2nd year in a row has donated the most amount of money to the Daffodil Days campaign. Thanks again to everyone who helped in supporting this worthwhile cause.

BSS DirectorUpon the retirement of Bureau of Street Ser-vices Director Bill Robertson on February 26, 2011, Assistant Director Nazario Sauceda is the interim Director of the Bureau of Street Services. Please be sure to update all pertinent distribution lists, etc.

Election ResultsIn yesterday’s election, in the Council Dis-trict races the following incumbents were re-elected outright to another term and have avoided a runoff election in May:

CD 2 Paul KrekorianCD 4 Tom LaBongeCD 6 Tony CardenasCD 8 Bernard C. ParksCD 10 Herb J. Wesson, Jr.CD 14 Jose Huizar

The new Councilmember-elect in Council District 12 is Mitchell Englander. He was chief of staff to Councilmember Greig Smith, who decided not to seek another term.

St. Pawtrick’s DayLegend has it that St. Patrick drove all the snakes out of Ireland. On March 19th, St. Pawtrick will drive all the animals out of our LA City Animal Care Centers ... and into lov-ing homes! Join LA Animal Services for St. Pawtrick’s Day: A “Green” Adoption Event, Saturday, March 19, 2011, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at all six LA City Animal Care Centers. Featuring: Discounted adoption fees, “Kiss the Blarney Dog” kissing booth, matchmakers to help you find your fur-ever friend, eco-friendly pet products, refreshments, professional training advice, giveaways and much more. Headquarters will be at the East Valley Animal Shelter, but special events are taking place at all six Los Angeles Animal Shelters.

East Valley - 14409 Vanowen St, Van Nuys, CA 91405

West Valley - 20655 Plummer Street, Chatsworth, CA 91311

North Central - 3201 Lacy Street, Los An-geles, CA 90031

South LA - 3612 11th Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90018 (Care Center)

West LA - 11361 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064

Harbor - 957 N. Gaffey Street, San Pedro, CA 90731

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