Rancho Palos Verdes highlights trails, open space and summer events at South Bay COG meeting

Ara Hovnanian, identified at the General Assembly as the Rancho Palos Verdes city manager, urged promotion of the city's recreation amenities and said the community should coordinate regionally for upcoming major sports events.

"As residents know, we have an abundant amount of trails. We have 30 over 33 miles worth of trails. We have 1,500 acres of open space. We have three golf courses..." Hovnanian said, listing Terranea and other courses as draws for visitors and residents.

Hovnanian framed the South Bay Cities Council of Governments as a vehicle for regional coordination on transportation, athletics and major events such as the World Cup and Olympics.

Josh Lucas, recreation supervisor for Ladera Linda Community Center, outlined Rancho Palos Verdes' spring and summer calendar. He highlighted Whale of a Day at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center on April 11 and noted that the 100th anniversary of the Point Vicente Lighthouse will be part of the season's celebrations. Lucas also mentioned planned movies-in-the-park, concerts and a Fourth of July program.

John Cruikshank, former mayor of Rancho Palos Verdes and former South Bay COG chair, praised the COG's role in regional issues including transportation, homelessness, housing and conservation, and noted the organization's recently formed homeless housing trust.

Speakers did not provide detailed budgets or permitting timelines for RPV programming during the General Assembly. Event dates and amenities were presented as promotional information for residents and visitors.