Donations Sought for Simon Meadow Improvements Project

With permits now approved to refurbish the four-acre Simon Meadow property located at the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Temescal Canyon Road, the Palisades-Malibu YMCA, which manages the parcel, seeks donations toward its capital campaign.

The Y's Executive Director Carol Pfannkuche said Thursday they need donations as soon as possible so they can begin installing the perimeter fencing and native plantings.

"We want this corner of the community to look better," she said, noting the approximate $350,000 capital campaign and goal includes funding for an expanded sports field, landscaping, identifiable signage and a path into the park from Sunset Boulevard.

"The native plantings will be surrounding the permanent fencing," Pffankuche added. "It'll be a couple of feet [in] on both sides with wire mesh in the middle. We're excited to get the permits to help this move forward."

Simon Meadow has been used by the Y for about 40 years, she said, and they bought the property in 2007 with a 10-year no build restriction. Since then, they've been looking to improve its aesthetics and the permit approvals help toward that goal. One acre on their parcel set back from the road way is designated as a sensitive habitat area by the California Coastal Commission, and Pffankuche said they will protect the native plants there.

Local scouts use the property and have done Eagle Scout community services projects. The YMCA also does their annual pumpkin patch and Christmas tree sales at Simon Meadow.

They are holding a winter festival at the Y on Saturday, Dec. 1 from noon to 2 p.m.

The Pacific Palisades Women's Club is helping the Simon Meadow improvements donation drive.

To donate, visit the Y's website or call them at 310-454-5591.