PHASE 1 UPDATE: GLENDALE SPORTS COMPLEX SOLAR CANOPY PROJECT

Array Size: 916 kW
Capacity: 1,343 kW –  2 million kWh/year
Approved: November, 2023

INFORMATION BELOW IS FROM GWP – GWP WEBPAGE
(Note: some links in this press release were added by GEC)

Scope of Work

Glendale Water & Power is expanding its clean energy portfolio with the installation of solar photovoltaic systems on city owned properties. In November 2023, the Glendale City Council approved Phase 1 of the City Owned Solar Development Program, which includes the installation of solar carport canopies at the Glendale Sports Complex parking lot. This initiative marks a significant step toward Glendale Water & Power’s commitment to a clean energy future.

The proposed solar project at the Sports Complex will have a 1,343 kW capacity, generating over 2 million kWh of clean solar energy annually. This is equivalent to removing 363 gasoline powered cars from the road each year. Additionally, the solar carport canopies will provide shade for parked cars.

To facilitate the successful implementation of the Sports Complex Solar Project, it is necessary to remove 25 trees from and near the perimeter of the parking lot. These trees include three species: California Sycamore trees which are native to California, Olive trees which are non-native to California, and Pink Locust trees which are non-native to California and are invasive to native species.

To offset the impact, we have developed a comprehensive replanting plan. Upon completion of the solar project, we will strategically plant 15 native California trees around the Sports Complex perimeter. In addition, 20 native California trees will be planted at Montrose Community Park and Emerald Isle Park. This replanting plan will not only replace non-native tree species with native California trees but also result in a net increase of 10 trees.

West Coast Arborists, the City’s tree maintenance contractor, will be removing the 25 identified trees.

Click here to view the tree removal & replacement plan.

Solar Optimum, another City contractor, will oversee the design, engineering, and construction of the solar project. To minimize disruptions to public access at the Sports Complex, the project will be completed in two rolling phases. Construction will start in November 2024 and is expected to be completed by February 2025.

Parking

“No Parking” signs will be posted in different locations throughout the construction phases. Parking will be limited, so please allow yourself extra time before games and practices to navigate the parking lot, as some areas will be closed, and spaces will be limited. There will be overflow parking, with signs directing you to additional spaces. Pedestrian crossings and ADA ramps will remain accessible at all times.

Click here to view the letter that was sent to community members in the Fern Lane area, the athletic organizations, and individuals affiliated with the Sports Complex.

Community Meeting

Join us for a community meeting to learn more about this exciting project. We will provide information and discuss our plans of addressing any impacts on landscaping and parking during the construction.

The meeting will take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the Sparr Heights Community Center from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Address: 1613 Glencoe Way
Glendale, CA 91208

Click here to view the flyer.

Construction Schedule

Construction is expected to begin in November 2024 and conclude in February 2025.
The project will be conducted in 3 phases, each lasting approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
Work will be conducted between 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM to minimize the disruptions during the late afternoon and evening peak operational hours of the athletic fields.

Project Location

Click here to view a map of the project and phases.
Contact Information

For general information and updates, please refer to this webpage. For specific project inquiries, please contact:

Bryan Salazar
(818) 254-6863
bsalazar@glendaleca.gov”