The Rowena Reservoir was slated to be replaced with underground water storage tanks as part of a water quality improvement program by the City of Los Angeles' Department of Water and Power (DWP) that included several other open reservoirs. When the Coalition for the Preservation of Open Reservoirs (CPOR) filed a lawsuit to preserve the water features that represented the focal points of their neighborhoods, the court appointed a mediator to work jointly with the Coalition representatives and the DWP.

Meléndrez was selected by the joint committee to redesign the Rowena Reservoir in a manner that would satisfy both parties. The court appointed mediator was present at all meetings and presentations to resolve conflicts and help all parties reach consensus so the project could move forward.

The new water feature includes three lakes to total four acres, with waterfalls connecting the lakes, which are located on top of a 10 million gallon potable water storage tank. While the underground tank allows for controlled water quality, the water feature above ground provides a beautiful visual amenity for the surround homes and neighborhood.

Attractive drought tolerant landscaping surrounds the water feature. The area is not accessible to the public, as requested by both the neighborhood and the DWP, because of the minimal available maintenance. An attractive wrought iron fence that reflects with the historic project elements encloses the property.

The historic row of Mexican Fan Palms remains, as do the large historic trees on-site. The project included restoration of several historic maintenance buildings and a small new utility building. Historic street lights in the neighborhood were also maintained, restored or replaced.