Rim of the Valley Corridor Preservation Act

This bill expands the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area to include the “Rim of the Valley” corridor around Los Angeles. It updates the official maps, puts those maps on file with the National Park Service for the public to see, and lets the Interior Department make minor boundary tweaks later. Land added to this area would be managed the same way as the rest of the recreation area to protect nature, wildlife, and outdoor recreation.

The bill also says existing water and utility systems in the added area can keep operating and be maintained or upgraded. However, those activities should be done in ways that reasonably avoid or reduce harm to natural and cultural resources.

Key points:

• Who is affected: People living near or visiting the Rim of the Valley area; landowners whose land may be acquired; agencies and utilities operating in the area.
• What changes: The recreation area’s boundary grows to include Rim of the Valley; added lands are managed as part of the existing national recreation area; utilities can continue but should limit impacts.
• When: Takes effect once enacted; official maps (including a 2023 map of the proposed addition) will guide the new boundaries and be available to the public.