That’s what some people are calling the new green street retrofit – I guess because the swales look like little canals. 
Or maybe it’s because the street is just so pretty right now, after the plants have been in the ground for a couple of months. Emily Green, LA Times, calls it “The Dry Garden,” and Sunset Magazine’s Fresh Dirt blog says it is “a model, we hope, for the future.” I like the Mother Nature Network blog’s headline, “Elmer Ave. in Sun Valley, Calif., is ready for stormy weather.” You can read the most complete coverage on LA Creek Freak in the piece that has generated the most comments of any posting I’ve seen so far, “Elmer Avenue Green Street Project Explored.”
In case you haven’t been able to get out to see the street yet, here are a few more photos from earlier this month.
The plants in the swales are growing and blooming so well; I’m looking forward to seeing how they weather the summer heat.
I can’t give the residents enough credit for having the vision and grace to allow their street to become this showcase for all of Los Angeles, for how we can turn our streets and yards into gardens that harvest the rain.
Microclimate Forms 
Yaaaay! It’s a great project – I’ve been telling people to go and see it.
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You are the best, Joe! Thanks for all of your writing (and your partners) on Creek Freak.
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Elmer Avenue is a “high-end luxury street?”
http://la.curbed.com/archives/2010/07/highend_luxury_streets.php
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I am extremely happy to say that in deed this is a GREAT PROJECT. I actually live on this beautiful renewed street. I have been living here for about 23 years and a half and I would’ve never imagined living on such a beautiful street. BIG difference, seeing my street get transformed has been awesome. All these georgeous plants have highlighted the beauty of nature and color. Come enjoy the beautiful landscapes and tons of humming birds.
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Alicia – I am so grateful for all you have done to help this transformation of your street. You and your neighbors are just great!
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