LOS ANGELES | METRO Project Rundown 2.0 (non-downtown)

[Quixote]

West LA continues to densify!

Killefer Flammang's West LA Project Nearly Wrapped Up

http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011_03_smblvdfederal-thumb.JPG

By Neal Broverman
March 23, 2011

WEST LA: The Killefer Flammang-designed mixed-use apartment complex, sometimes referred to as Santa Monica Plaza (http://la.curbed.com/tags/santa-monica-plaza), is big and bright and about wrapped up. A representative from Wiseman Properties says the project will be done by end of May, with prices available in April. There will be 63 apartments in there, two grounds of underground parking, and room for some retail on the Santa Monica Boulevard-facing ground floor. Frustratingly, there is no movement yet on the Vons makeover (http://la.curbed.com/archives/2009/12/neighborhood_changer_grocery_store_infill_coming_to_west_la_block.php) across the street. [Curbed Staff]

http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011_03_smblvdfederal2-thumb.JPG
Santa Monica Blvd.

http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011_03_smblvdfederal3-thumb.JPG
Federal Ave.

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/03/santa_monica_blvd_project.php#more

[pesto]

I kinda miss the Pompidou Center-wannabe escalators. The way they zig-zagged and were lit in neon at night, they were the only visually interesting thing about the Beverly Center's exterior.

True. They were the only good thing about the exterior until they built a couple of restaurants into the walls. Maybe some digital news or art?

The rework of Beverly Center is hopeless. If Caruso (or imitator) were to build another Grove across the street it would kill it. Fortunately for Beverly Center there isn't much room for putting in competition in the area and across La Cienega is, if anything, worse.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

I would love to see Beverly Center turn into this:

http://www.archpaper.com/images/feature_05_05/led_02_seoul_green.jpg
archpaper.com

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

are you kidding? the neighbors in that area would all die before anything like that gets built there.

i would love it personally though.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

are you kidding? the neighbors in that area would all die before anything like that gets built there.

i would love it personally though.

Why are these Angelenos SO OPPOSED to light? I don't get it.

LED, like any other design element, can be executed poorly or tastefully. I don't subscribe to the idea that LED (or bright signage) is inherently "bad." I personally think it can be done well and can be an exciting and dynamic design element that can spawn economic development and human activity.

If the Beverly Center was strategically "wrapped" in LED signs, it could be an attractive force that draws more people to the area and give that area of LA an infusion of energy.

I am not married with this idea, however. If we can find another way for Taubman to improve the exterior of Beverly Center, I am all for it.

http://cache.virtualtourist.com/2253407-Beverly_Center-Los_Angeles.jpg
Virtualtourist.com

BTW, I also agree that the original staircase on the exterior of the building was one of the more interesting features and could have been spruced up without having to get rid of it entirely.

[Chef Boyardee]

The latest i could find on blvd 6200 in hollywood.

http://www.gemmimms.com/realestatenews/very-near-future-for-blvd6200-clarett-speaketh-well-sort-of/

[Chef Boyardee]

I would love to see Beverly Center turn into this:

http://www.archpaper.com/images/feature_05_05/led_02_seoul_green.jpg
archpaper.com


Not a mall, but the new LAX CUP building will look somewhat similar.

http://www.clarkmccarthylaxcup.com/i/renderings/rendering1.jpg

[RST500]

I would love to see Beverly Center turn into this:

http://www.archpaper.com/images/feature_05_05/led_02_seoul_green.jpg
archpaper.com

Wow. Its as if you guys could read my mind! I always envioned the Beverly Center becoming the "Time Square" of LA covered in electronic billboards and the surrounding minimalls tunred into highrises and a subway state.

[StethJeff]

I would love to see Beverly Center turn into this:

http://www.archpaper.com/images/feature_05_05/led_02_seoul_green.jpg
archpaper.com

you nailed it. that might be the only thing that can save that grotesque monstrosity.

[JDRCRASH]

Look... restrict billboards to Hollywood Blvd (between La Brea and Gower), and in South Park (in an area bounded by 9th, Flower, Venice, and Cherry). These billboard districts actually already exist, but encompass a larger area; they just need to be smaller. Then tax the billboard districts, and use the funds for arts programs and other community projects, like what's done in Toronto. Then ban the billboards everywhere else and fine the billboard companies after a certain amount of time when the ban is enacted, for each billboard they fail to take down that is outside the signage districts. In turn, well over 90% of the city would be ad-free.

There's no excuse why this can't be done without lawsuits. It has already been achieved in so many cities it's ridiculous that people like Dennis Hathaway think that the issue can be resolved with an outright ban of billboards.

[DJM19]

I agree we need bilboard districts. Hollywood and Downtown are good, maybe one or two others in others parts of the city (maybe). But it has gotten ridiculous and inappropriate in some areas. Every building with some space on the roof seems to have a billboard coming out of it. Thousands of these things need to be removed.

[Quixote]

Wow. Its as if you guys could read my mind! I always envioned the Beverly Center becoming the "Time Square" of LA covered in electronic billboards and the surrounding minimalls tunred into highrises and a subway state.

Pretty much. That area has so much potential to develop into a major urban crossroads like Shibuya or Piccadilly Circus because there is so much activity going on in and around the intersection (Beverly Center, Cedars-Sinai, Restaurant Row, Robertson and 3rd Street retail districts, SLS and Sofitel hotels, etc.). Some LED lighting and billboards would put it over-the-top. It would form a triangle with 7th/Figueroa and Hollywood/Highland as the city's three main epicenters.

[edluva]

Pretty much. That area has so much potential to develop into a major urban crossroads like Shibuya or Piccadilly Circus because there is so much activity going on in and around the intersection (Beverly Center, Cedars-Sinai, Restaurant Row, Robertson and 3rd Street retail districts, SLS and Sofitel hotels, etc.). Some LED lighting and billboards would put it over-the-top. It would form a triangle with 7th/Figueroa and Hollywood/Highland as the city's three main epicenters.

i agree. the westside is already where la's wealth concentrates. who cares about downtown? it's just a friggin cbd. dtla will never attain the status of city de-facto city center. ever. there, i said it.

let's get real trains to come to the mid-city/westside. if we had a subway line stop at bev center and melrose, and zoning laws changed, that would awaken the development gods like we've never seen. la could become bad-ass.

but that won't happen in my productive lifetime.

beverly hills is retarded. la has a lame upscale district. have you seen omotesando hills? if you want to see new walkable upscale neighborhoods that is what we could be emulating.

killefer flammang's apts are ugly as hell btw. what a waste of perfectly good money and perfectly good vacant land. la has no taste.

[DistrictDirt]

i agree. the westside is already where la's wealth concentrates. who cares about downtown? it's just a friggin cbd. dtla will never attain the status of city de-facto city center. ever. there, i said it.

Thanks for the lolz. :haha:

[pesto]

Nice to get some thought going around this again.

Beverly Center: Electric green is very nice but even better, open it up to the street AND electric green. It's doing well, but opened but and with bold decor it could be world famous.

High-rise is off the table due to local opposition. There isn't much over about 10 stories away from Wilshire. But 5-15 should be everywhere.

Traffic is legitimately bad and every new development at Beverly Center or Farmer's Mkt. creates a battle so nothing makes much sense without Pink Line. Around Fairfax we may have to live with shuttle buses from the Purple (Wilshire) and from Red or Pink.

[JDRCRASH]

Soooo..... does this belong in the downtown thread, or the metro thread...?:

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/ixnay_on_wyvernwood_says_boyle_heights_city_councilman.php

http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011.wynerwood.jpg

[pesto]

Soooo..... does this belong in the downtown thread, or the metro thread...?:

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/ixnay_on_wyvernwood_says_boyle_heights_city_councilman.php

http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011.wynerwood.jpg

I lived in Wyvernwood. It was low-grade post-war housing at that time and now is simply a slum. Anything to get rid of it would be desirable. It is stunning that Huizar, or any one, would think that leaving it as is rather than upgrading it into decent housing with sufficient parking and modern amenities is a good idea.

This is not eminent domain; it is a single property. As such it is relatvely unusual in an urban area. It can be developed without acquring properties and would be a boost to the entire area (including the old Sears building, which is prime for redevelopment).

Is this "slum preservation"? Park La Brea is analogous and no one complains when it is expanded or redeveloped into higher rise or more modern construction.

[Easy]

Park La Brea is analogous..

Somewhat, but not really since Park La Brea isn't a slum.

[SD_Phil]

^Right on. I'm a huge fan of PLB. Never lived there myself but have known people that have. Seems like something the city needs more of frankly (dense affordable housing for middle income people).

[Illithid Dude]

Just throwing this out there, and I have no idea what the current situation of that place looks like, but on account of clearing slums, just remember that at one point Bunker Hill was considered a slum. We all know how that turned out.

[SD_Phil]

^good point but we have pictures of BH that make us regret that decision. Any pictures of that area so we can compare?

[LAofAnaheim]

I lived in Wyvernwood. It was low-grade post-war housing at that time and now is simply a slum. Anything to get rid of it would be desirable. It is stunning that Huizar, or any one, would think that leaving it as is rather than upgrading it into decent housing with sufficient parking and modern amenities is a good idea.

This is not eminent domain; it is a single property. As such it is relatvely unusual in an urban area. It can be developed without acquring properties and would be a boost to the entire area (including the old Sears building, which is prime for redevelopment).

Is this "slum preservation"? Park La Brea is analogous and no one complains when it is expanded or redeveloped into higher rise or more modern construction.

Huizar is only defending Wyvernwood because he has been accused of being too comfortable with developers. Secretly, you'd know he's all over this puppy and looking for this development. If Martinez would have been elected, he would have been a serious person to actually prevent this type of development (he hates any progress..any progress...he hated the LA streetcar plan). Huizar is in a tough position. He wants economic progress, but some people in the "bario" are scared of the word "gentrification", so Huizar had to pick the easy side.

[djlx2]

^good point but we have pictures of BH that make us regret that decision. Any pictures of that area so we can compare?

I have pictures of two different Bunker Hill eras, though I won't post them, since both are now history. The only relevant ones of era 1 were photographed on rooftops. I don't have as many photos from the second era because I only had a couple of days to photograph it then, but believe me, that Bunker Hill had utterly beautiful things in the landscape, even if the developers coming in just managed to knock a bunch of things around and while they were focusing on a bunch of made-up blueprints. Fortunately I was with an informed landscape architect at the time so I have some images of the incredibly beautiful things there. I would love to go back and photograph that area for a few days without all that detritus in the way cluttering up the frame, obviously, though these days I'm really only concerned with new york Towers.

[SD_Phil]

^Apologies, yes, I've seen historic Bunker Hill photos and know that much was lost there. What I was asking for were pictures of Wyvernwood to see if bulldozing it would be anything like the loss of BH. My guess is not but I'm not familiar with the area.

[colemonkee]

Good news from Curbed LA (ttp://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/expo_line_trains_entering_exciting_testing_phase.php):

http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011.culvericty.jpg
Image Source: Curbed LA (ttp://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/expo_line_trains_entering_exciting_testing_phase.php)

Expo Line Trains Entering Exciting Testing Phase

LOS ANGELES: From Expo Staff, a notice that the trains for Phase 1 of the Expo Line will start moving. Sort of. "Please find enclosed a notice announcing the start of train testing on the Expo Line. Train testing activities are scheduled to start the week of April 4, 2011 and continue for several months along the light rail alignment. Testing schedules are dynamic and updated information will be provided." The notice also warns pedestrians to be careful when walking across the tracks. Go, choo choo train!

[StethJeff]

From the L.A. Times:

Apartments planned near Hollywood & Highland

Champion Real Estate pays $20 million for several parcels of land, saying it will build a $100-million apartment and retail development there.

By Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times
April 1, 2011

A Los Angeles developer is planning to build a $100-million apartment and retail development near the Hollywood & Highland entertainment complex.

Champion Real Estate Co. paid $20 million for a 2.76-acre collection of parcels, some of which will be redeveloped, President Robert Champion said Thursday. The property was purchased out of receivership.

Champion Real Estate's Hollywood project, which has not been designed, would take at least a year to be approved by city officials and an additional two years to build, Champion said. By 2013, he predicted, there should be demand for new apartments.

"We think that will be perfect timing for the market," he said. Potential renters would be "people geared toward the entertainment industry who want to live in Hollywood and like an urban lifestyle."

Champion Real Estate acquired 17 parcels — most of the property — roughly bounded by Highland, Selma, Hawthorn and Las Palmas avenues. The real estate includes three small office buildings, two apartment buildings, a restaurant building and three parking lots, said receiver Taylor B. Grant, who handled the sale.

Panavision occupies one of the office buildings and recently renewed its lease. Champion intends to raze the two vacant low-rise apartment buildings on Selma.

There were 19 offers on the property, according to Grant's Newport Beach-based Real Estate Receiverships. The property had an assessed value of $34 million.

Champion said his company paid about 60% of what the last owners did. Those investors, headed by Connecticut-based Commonfund, intended to build a hotel but never started development.

"A hotel made sense in 2006 but not in 2011," Champion said.

Champion Real Estate specializes in mixed-use developments in urban neighborhoods. Past projects include the Burbank Collection in Glendale, the Pasadena Collection in Pasadena and Gaslamp CitySquare in downtown San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.

[pesto]

A interesting area with problems and potential. The block itself is not that interesting but immediatlely north is the old Max Factor complex with some protected buildings and some real losers. To the south you get to older small homes and apartments which need work (one of them was converted to Cafe des Artistes, a great little bistro, with a nice patio in back). There is also small theater on Las Palmas and Catalina Jazz Club on Sunset.

Development of this block should take into account at least the 2 or 3 surrounding blocks and what is viable there. Over the longer term, the smaller sfh's don't seem very appropriate, except if converted into small businesses (pubs, cafes). I hope that generic metal, plastic and glass don't dominate the whole thing. This is Hollywood so show some style.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

The Hollywood project is very exciting because it pushes activity further south from Hollywood Blvd toward Sunset Blvd, making Hollywood more and more of a 3-dimensional walking grid (instead of the usual linear commercial model that most Sunbelt cities have).

If Highland Ave can become as vibrant as Vine St, then Hollywood is going to be that much more interesting and dynamic.

Hollywood is pushing forward becoming the second largest urban district after Downtown LA.

[RST500]

Welcome to the Los Angeles Metro thread covering the developments outside of downtown.



Ametron Tower
?-story - Office
Hollywood

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/5171071793_e842b420cb_b.jpg
ArchNew.com




Wow that tower is awsome. remindes me of the NY Hearst building. Whats its status?

[djlx2]

Wow that tower is awsome. remindes me of the NY Hearst building. Whats its status?

I think that construction initially began but then the architects briefly put it on hold to try to figure out if there are particular elements that are missing/needed in the approved design.

[DistrictDirt]

Wow that tower is awsome. remindes me of the NY Hearst building. Whats its status?

That angle is a little misleading. It makes it look like a tower when really its more of a box:

http://www.archpaper.com/uploads/image/Ametron-Hollywood1.jpg
archpaper.com (http://www.archpaper.com/e-board_rev.asp?News_ID=4526)

[Hubris]

Expo Line testing today:

http://friends4expo.org/images/adams-7850-800.jpg


More at http://transittalk.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=expoline&action=display&thread=66&page=138

[djlx2]

That angle is a little misleading. It makes it look like a tower when really its more of a box:

http://www.archpaper.com/uploads/image/Ametron-Hollywood1.jpg
archpaper.com (http://www.archpaper.com/e-board_rev.asp?News_ID=4526)

Yeah, what's up with that? Where are they going on that angle?

[Illithid Dude]

I actually love that building no matter the angle. Was this actually under construction at one point? And isn't stalled forever? Could someone explain further what is up with this building?

[JDRCRASH]

I actually love that building no matter the angle. Was this actually under construction at one point? And isn't stalled forever? Could someone explain further what is up with this building?

Like most projects, it is probably looking for funding.

[djlx2]

I actually love that building no matter the angle. Was this actually under construction at one point? And isn't stalled forever? Could someone explain further what is up with this building?

My impression is that likely they're putting these photos up right now from varying angles to show as many sides of it as possible in order to get a clearer idea on the thoughts/wishes of the public it's being built for before it's built. It is definitely scheduled to go up as an actual building, but I think they want to make it awesome, so basically the images are up right now as part of a conversation.

[djlx2]

:previous:

Also expect there will be some kind of info going along with those photos, probably in the near future as the planners do research.

[milquetoast]

This is Joey Shimoda's attempt at being as relevant as the design, and how it relates to the hardware of music reproduction, of The Capital Records building. I think it's a "hodge podge." . The only thing I like about it is the ivy working itself up the walls.

[milquetoast]

I actually like the color scheme on the Breda model. Makes the 50's looking design look updated to me :) It's so quiet!! . SQvV-yGvOhE

[pesto]

I remember that place. It was supposed to make references to microphones, radios, electronics, etc., as an "homage" to the music industry. A bit pretentious but at least with some interest in the history of its location.

All in all, I'm afraid I'm not that excited.

[JDRCRASH]

This is Joey Shimoda's attempt at being as relevant as the design, and how it relates to the hardware of music reproduction, of The Capital Records building. I think it's a "hodge podge." . The only thing I like about it is the ivy working itself up the walls.

You're not diggin' the "175 Greenwich"-ish part of the tower?:D

[Allnatural85]

I dunno if this belongs here but are neighborhood populations out for LA from the census yet? I wanna see what areas of LA grew Like... Hollywood etc.

[mdiederi]

They've finally started erecting the platform for the Culver City terminal.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v120/mdiederi/buildings/ccplat.jpg
©mdiederi

[LosAngelesBeauty]

Thanks for posting that. Does anyone know what the dirt land around the station is planned for? It looks particularly barren right now. Will it become parkland? Developed into mixed-use?

[JDRCRASH]

Thanks for posting that. Does anyone know what the dirt land around the station is planned for? It looks particularly barren right now. Will it become parkland? Developed into mixed-use?

A parking structure, maybe?

[LAofAnaheim]

Thanks for posting that. Does anyone know what the dirt land around the station is planned for? It looks particularly barren right now. Will it become parkland? Developed into mixed-use?

A parking structure for 150 - 220 cars and a bus transit center.

[Quixote]

I can't wait to see how the area around that station evolves. It is surrounded by junk on all four sides. The strip mall next to it in particular needs to be replaced with a project whose design orients the pedestrian toward downtown Culver City. I'm thinking something along the lines of a Paseo Colorado.

[pesto]

I can't wait to see how the area around that station evolves. It is surrounded by junk on all four sides. The strip mall next to it in particular needs to be replaced with a project whose design orients the pedestrian toward downtown Culver City. I'm thinking something along the lines of a Paseo Colorado.

Good idea. The point is to attract all types so parking, buses, walking and dense shopping and living should all be there. A whole community. I'll even bet that Sony and local restaurants would vote a tax for streetscape heading in their direction.

[BrandonJXN]

Thanks for posting that. Does anyone know what the dirt land around the station is planned for? It looks particularly barren right now. Will it become parkland? Developed into mixed-use?

I'm guessing some sort of large plaza as it extends all the way to Washington.

[milquetoast]

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO VOTE ON VERMONT/WILSHIRE . http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/album%203/Fullscreencapture420201143532AM.jpg . Even as the future of the Community Redevelopment Agency hangs in the balance, the agency is set to vote this Thursday on up to $17.5 million in aid for developer J.H. Snyder's two-tower apartment project designed by local architecture firm Jerde. Located above the Purple and Red Lines, the project- a 25-story tower and a 30-story tower with 464 one- and two-bedroom apartments- was announced earlier this year. . http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/album%203/Fullscreencapture420201143540AM.jpg . NEAL BROVERMAN CURBEDLA

[ChelseaFC]

New Midtown Crossing renders: http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/latest_renderings_show_off_cim_groups_midtown_crossing.php#midtown-crossing-2

[milquetoast]

"DOUBLE GLASS WALLS WOULD BE THE TALLEST SUCH INSTALLATION IN THE COUNTRY.." JMB REALTY WANTS TO BUILD CENTURY CITY HIGH-RISE http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/album%203/Fullscreencapture421201143101AM.jpg CHICAGO DEVELOPER IS SEEKING CITY APPROVAL FOR A 37 STORY TOWER ON AVENUE OF THE STARS AT CONSTELLATION PLACE THAT WILL BE NAMED CENTURY CITY CENTER . Longtime Century City landlord JMB Realty Corp. wants to build the neighborhood's first office skyscraper in nearly a decade on a site once planned for a cluster of high-rise condominiums.

The Chicago developer, through local affiliate Century City Realty, is seeking city approval for a 37-story tower on Avenue of the Stars at Constellation Boulevard that would be called Century City Center. JMB also will need to address homeowners concerned about growing density and traffic in their neighborhoods around Century City.

JMB officials say the $350-million high-rise would be one of the most environmentally friendly tall buildings in the country, with a lush rooftop garden over the garage and a portal to a proposed subway station. It is being designed by Los Angeles architecture firm Johnson Fain, which designed other well-known Century City offices including Fox Plaza, SunAmerica Center and the former MGM Tower.

JMB, which has owned the mostly empty property since the mid-1980s, said in 2003 that it wanted to build 483 condos in two 47-story towers and a 12-story loft building on the property. The proposal met opposition from nearby homeowner groups concerned about traffic, but it eventually garnered city approval.

Other developers proposed six additional condominium projects for the Century City area during the mid-2000s, included the super-luxury Century condominiums completed last year next to the Century Plaza Hotel. Demand for new housing, however, plummeted when the recession hit.

"We missed the window" on the once-booming condo market, said Patrick Meara of JMB. "In hindsight, that was a good thing."

Office demand has remained more consistent. Century City commands some of the highest rents in Southern California, and vacancy held steady in the first quarter at about 13% compared with the same period a year earlier, according to brokerage Cushman & Wakefield. Newer buildings tend to fill fastest.

"Century City vacancy rates have been very low in trophy buildings," said real estate broker Gary Weiss of L.A. Realty Partners. "It's great timing, in my opinion."

Growing numbers of tenants are demanding offices that reflect a green sensibility, Meara said, and JMB intends to build to the most exacting "platinum" standards of the U.S. Green Building Council. There are now only five tall platinum-rated buildings in the country, and none are in Los Angeles.

The design is intended to meld the efficiency of a skyscraper with amenities that have proved popular with creative businesses such as Internet firms, architect Scott Johnson said.

"A high-rise building can embrace a low-rise culture," he said.

Johnson's design calls for double-glass walls that would allow heat to rise without penetrating the building. It would be the tallest such installation in the country and "frankly, very expensive," he said.

The office tower would be smaller in total square footage than the previously planned condo complex but would have different traffic patterns that will be discussed and debated in the months ahead.

"My instinct tells me that a large office building is going to generate more peak-hour traffic than residential," said Mike Eveloff, president of Tract 7260, a neighborhood just west of Century City. In the past, Eveloff has been among those protesting big proposed projects, contending that Westside streets, parks, schools, libraries and police and fire stations were already strained.

Los Angeles Councilman Paul Koretz, who represents Century City, said JMB should face homeowners first. "Before they get any cogent thought from me," he said, "they need to meet with all the neighborhood groups that are concerned."

JMB has launched a program to explain the proposals and hear neighbors' concerns, Meara said.

"Traffic is absolutely the issue in West L.A., no question," he said.
roger.vincent@latimes.com

martha.groves@latimes.com ROGER VINCENT MARTHA GROVES LOSANGELESTIMES

[Illithid Dude]

This doesn't sound very good. In fact, it sounds like someone who doesn't understand Los Angeles trying to make a building for Los Angeles. Our low rise culture? Ew. Oh, by Tue way, this belongs in the Los Angeles Metro thread.

[Steve2726]

:previous:

I imagine the local nimby's are going to demand a new EIR, so this won't be breaking ground anytime soon.

[colemonkee]

Well, that was fast. Curbed LA (http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/closer_look_at_johnson_fains_latest_designs_for_century_city.php#johnson-fain-2) already has renderings. It's, uhhh, well, unique.

All images courtesy of Curbed LA (http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/closer_look_at_johnson_fains_latest_designs_for_century_city.php#johnson-fain-2) and Johnson Fain

http://cdn.cstatic.net/cache/gallery/5143/5641155887_da95f06093_o.jpg

http://cdn.cstatic.net/cache/gallery/5143/5641155843_2e8a83b14b_o.jpg

http://cdn.cstatic.net/cache/gallery/5055/5641155821_851bd2847b_o.jpg

http://cdn.cstatic.net/cache/gallery/5064/5641155871_61f24b53f2_o.jpg

All images courtesy of Curbed LA (http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/closer_look_at_johnson_fains_latest_designs_for_century_city.php#johnson-fain-2) and Johnson Fain

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

as i mentioned at curbed... i like it but i think that it would look better if the building was taller.

I dont expect this thing to break ground anytime soon unfortunately. Nimbys, funding and approvals will stretch this thing out for a couple years

[DistrictDirt]

Reminds me a bit of BLUE in NYC, only less mosaic-y:

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/8477/blue02ctu2.jpg

[JDRCRASH]

:uhh:

I don't know whether to jump up down for joy in the fact that this dirt lot may finally have something on it ..... or to jump up and down in a pissed mood because not only is it one low-rise tower, but also has what has been the bane of Century City from the beginning..... a plaza.

I like that this project would have a subway station portal, but come on. Grow some balls, stand up to these insane NIMBYS, and build taller and denser.

as i mentioned at curbed... i like it but i think that it would look better if the building was taller.

I dont expect this thing to break ground anytime soon unfortunately. Nimbys, funding and approvals will stretch this thing out for a couple years

And by the time that's done, this building will be HALF it's original size.... when in reality, it NEEDS to be TWICE it's original size.

I HATE NIMBYS.

[Illithid Dude]

:uhh:

I don't know whether to jump up down for joy in the fact that this dirt lot may finally have something on it ..... or to jump up and down in a pissed mood because not only is it one low-rise tower, but also has what has been the bane of Century City from the beginning..... a plaza.

I like that this project would have a subway station portal, but come on. Grow some balls, stand up to these insane NIMBYS, and build taller and denser.



And by the time that's done, this building will be HALF it's original size.... when in reality, it NEEDS to be TWICE it's original size.

I HATE NIMBYS.

It actually is pretty tall, this is definitely no low-rise. And Century City has a height restriction of 585 feet, so we won't ever really get very tall buildings. And, as I posted before on Curbed, it isn't really a plaza, but a park. And, from the renderings, it is ringed by street-fronting retail, creating a lively, pedestrian atmosphere. Lastly, when Century City is finally filled in, and there is no where else to grow, I bet that this park will be filled in by some nice, glassy, and tall.

[JDRCRASH]

It actually is pretty tall, this is definitely no low-rise. And Century City has a height restriction of 585 feet, so we won't ever really get very tall buildings. And, as I posted before on Curbed, it isn't really a plaza, but a park. And, from the renderings, it is ringed by street-fronting retail, creating a lively, pedestrian atmosphere. Lastly, when Century City is finally filled in, and there is no where else to grow, I bet that this park will be filled in by some nice, glassy, and tall.

The article on this in the Business section of the Times today mentions that there was a plan to build two 40-something story towers and a 15 story loft building, but that the nearby tract Homeowners Assoc. killed it.

"It could have been better", is my point.

[RST500]

as i mentioned at curbed... i like it but i think that it would look better if the building was taller.

I dont expect this thing to break ground anytime soon unfortunately. Nimbys, funding and approvals will stretch this thing out for a couple years

I agree that it is to fat and not tall enough. I like the old renderings sleek and tall. Is there still room for another tower on that site or is the rest being turned into a park or plaza?

[JDRCRASH]

I agree that it is to fat and not tall enough. I like the old renderings sleek and tall. Is there still room for another tower on that site or is the rest being turned into a park or plaza?

According to Illithid, a park.

[Illithid Dude]

Some good news and some bad news. Via Curbed LA, some details on the Wilshire/Vermont condo project. First, it is being called The Vemont. Second, they are doing some redesigns, which may include getting rid of the little driveway thing. Third, they are putting in a plaza (speak of the devil). Fourth, and worst of all, they are going to put in, wait for this... 1000 PARKING SPACES. This is for only a little under 500 residential units. I mean, damn, that seems like a lot of parking spaces. Especially for something that could easily be a TOD as it is RIGHT NEXT TO THE RED LINE VERMONT STOP! Okay, I'm a little angry. I'll stop. But still. Eegh.

[colemonkee]

That is a little ridiculous, being so close to a Red and Purple Line stop. It really shouldn't have more than 650 parking spots, even with all the retail. And one could make a pretty good argument for far less. This is one time where an exception needs to me made to the parking requirements.

[colemonkee]

As for the "park" on the Johnson Fain tower in Century City, you guys need to brush up on your reading skills. The park is on the roof of the parking garage, so it won't be an at-grade park - it will be what appears to be 2-3 stories high - though it may be accessible to the public. From the LA Times article posted on the previous page:

JMB officials say the $350-million high-rise would be one of the most environmentally friendly tall buildings in the country, with a lush rooftop garden over the garage and a portal to a proposed subway station.

You can see clearly here in the rendering below that there is a driveway that goes directly into the park from Constellation Blvd. (look just right of center bottom):

http://cdn.cstatic.net/cache/gallery/5064/5641155871_61f24b53f2_o.jpg

In terms of a second tower, that is clearly not planned. And the original two-tower residential project was not killed by community opposition, but by a crashing housing market.

[JDRCRASH]

And colemonkee, you need to relax.

Whether the garden is at-grade or not is irrelevant; it still has the same affect of discouraging density when done on a large scale. The area has PLENTY of open space, like downtown's financial core. Ex. Union Bank, BofA, Boneventure, all of which have HUGE elevated gardens/parks/plazas.

And the original two-tower residential project was not killed by community opposition, but by a crashing housing market.

2003 (when it was proposed) was well before the housing crash. And as the article in the Times hinted, community opposition clearly played a major role in the project's demise.

[Illithid Dude]

You're right, ColeMonkey, it is the top of the parking garage. Still, though, the parking garage is ringed by street fronting retail, creating a pedestrian area.

[LAofAnaheim]

Some good news and some bad news. Via Curbed LA, some details on the Wilshire/Vermont condo project. First, it is being called The Vemont. Second, they are doing some redesigns, which may include getting rid of the little driveway thing. Third, they are putting in a plaza (speak of the devil). Fourth, and worst of all, they are going to put in, wait for this... 1000 PARKING SPACES. This is for only a little under 500 residential units. I mean, damn, that seems like a lot of parking spaces. Especially for something that could easily be a TOD as it is RIGHT NEXT TO THE RED LINE VERMONT STOP! Okay, I'm a little angry. I'll stop. But still. Eegh.

Hence the reason it's so hard for developers to build anything in Los Angeles. These high parking requirements create such a funding problem. You think the developer would need a $17 million loan if the parking was significantly scaled back. We need some parking.........but 900 spaces (not 1,000..it's actually 900) is ludicrous. Especially, yes, in a cross junction of the Red and Purple Lines. Why should somebody bother going Metro when there is very convenient parking in the development?

Of course, somebody will complain there is "no parking". Which really means, "there isn't free parking right outside my doorstep"

[RST500]

Reminds me a bit of BLUE in NYC, only less mosaic-y:

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/8477/blue02ctu2.jpg

Where in NYC is that? I would love to see something like that in LA especially in the Fairfax District/Beverly Center area along 3rd and Beverly. They could easily fit onto the lots were there are currently strip malls.

[pesto]

New Midtown Crossing renders: http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/latest_renderings_show_off_cim_groups_midtown_crossing.php#midtown-crossing-2

Thanks for the post. As noted, part of this is complete and the rest is well under way.

For most people this area is really under the radar but it has interesting potential since it's at the edge of better areas. It is almost to La Brea, where there is a considerable upgrade in the quality of housing and neighborhood. To the north is Hancock Park and other lesser hoods with large lots and beautiful older houses, turning Korean. And just south and east (off of Venice) is La Fayette Sq., a gated community of Brentwood style villas (btw, this is a fascinating 200 home tour of Mission, Craftsman, Georgian and other American vernaculars with very little modern).

But, as usual with this part of LA, many of the surrounding homes have been informally subdivided and have 5 or 6 cars parked on the driveway or former front lawns.

Some further city action like the divider on Pico or gating of communities where residents or investors commit to restorations would create an attractive, mixed-ethnic hood.

[Illithid Dude]

So, I walked around West Hollywood today, and got pictures of a few things under construction.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-12no7QOq5s8/TbNxXSaO_BI/AAAAAAAAAJM/m-MwpOoEFg4/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+007.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pEbdBtgsRbw/TbNxQAFIzEI/AAAAAAAAAJA/jRKCIrRfvQU/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+004.JPG

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-srI6kNDCy4Y/TbNxSSHP-BI/AAAAAAAAAJE/9YHgQGEzabg/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+005.JPG

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9nhIQrcCtRA/TbNxVppMk-I/AAAAAAAAAJI/8vcppuuC-s4/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+006.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8NhuBTD9OKg/TbNxfORDzhI/AAAAAAAAAJY/5JqyjyPNOMM/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+010.JPG

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CShGnCZVOt8/TbNxm-NV91I/AAAAAAAAAJk/3hvpik3x4pw/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+013.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9H7T77v4k18/TbNx1EJ4ybI/AAAAAAAAAKA/gEvrfPN8fLc/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+020.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CCEfO4kRpBw/TbNx5p2ZrWI/AAAAAAAAAKI/SzT1NlYPFwc/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+022.JPG

And the new Library:

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XJcOZEUuwWc/TbNxo6QHHEI/AAAAAAAAAJo/SCJy5hB8gM8/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+014.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EPVqhJ1w84Y/TbNxsSE3TnI/AAAAAAAAAJw/_RRa-HWfYsI/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+016.JPG

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5RsHN3jK-4/TbNxuThTghI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/DNuXd4EqJOc/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+017.JPG

[colemonkee]

Nice. Is the new WeHo library designed by the same firm that designed the new LA City College buildings? They have some distinct similarities.

[milquetoast]

Photographic updates on Red. Finally!

[alphachapmtl]

Where in NYC is that? I would love to see something like that in LA especially in the Fairfax District/Beverly Center area along 3rd and Beverly. They could easily fit onto the lots were there are currently strip malls.

Designed by world renowned Bernard Tschumi, the NYC BLUE Condominium condominium tower is a work of art and represent one of the most dynamic architectural landmarks.
The building is located on Norfolk Avenue, between Delancey and Rivington Avenues in Manhattan's Lower East Side.
It can be reached by the F,J,M,Z to Delancey St or Essex St.

BLUE Condominium
105 Norfolk Street
New York, NY 10002-3314
(212) 673-2470

http://www.nyc-architecture.com/LES/LES038.htm
http://www.bluecondonyc.com/

[Illithid Dude]

Nice. Is the new WeHo library designed by the same firm that designed the new LA City College buildings? They have some distinct similarities.

It is. His name is Johnson Favaro.

[dktshb]

So, I walked around West Hollywood today, and got pictures of a few things under construction.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-12no7QOq5s8/TbNxXSaO_BI/AAAAAAAAAJM/m-MwpOoEFg4/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+007.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pEbdBtgsRbw/TbNxQAFIzEI/AAAAAAAAAJA/jRKCIrRfvQU/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+004.JPG

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-srI6kNDCy4Y/TbNxSSHP-BI/AAAAAAAAAJE/9YHgQGEzabg/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+005.JPG

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9nhIQrcCtRA/TbNxVppMk-I/AAAAAAAAAJI/8vcppuuC-s4/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+006.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8NhuBTD9OKg/TbNxfORDzhI/AAAAAAAAAJY/5JqyjyPNOMM/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+010.JPG

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CShGnCZVOt8/TbNxm-NV91I/AAAAAAAAAJk/3hvpik3x4pw/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+013.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9H7T77v4k18/TbNx1EJ4ybI/AAAAAAAAAKA/gEvrfPN8fLc/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+020.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CCEfO4kRpBw/TbNx5p2ZrWI/AAAAAAAAAKI/SzT1NlYPFwc/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+022.JPG

And the new Library:

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XJcOZEUuwWc/TbNxo6QHHEI/AAAAAAAAAJo/SCJy5hB8gM8/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+014.JPG

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EPVqhJ1w84Y/TbNxsSE3TnI/AAAAAAAAAJw/_RRa-HWfYsI/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+016.JPG

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5RsHN3jK-4/TbNxuThTghI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/DNuXd4EqJOc/s640/West+Hollywood+Construction+017.JPG

The red building is coming along nicely. Oh and that is one massive ugly parking structure for the library which is really unfortunate!

[Kingofthehill]

Does anybody know what the latest is on the TOD development rising at the MacArthur Park subway station?

[RAlossi]

Does anybody know what the latest is on the TOD development rising at the MacArthur Park subway station?

Affordable housing development, IIRC. I think it's just the first phase. The second is supposed to rise over the plaza.

[DistrictDirt]

Does anybody know what the latest is on the TOD development rising at the MacArthur Park subway station?

I pass it on the 720 bus every day. They are well into the framing. Not sure when completion date is supposed to be but I'm guessing maybe a year.

[Muji]

Two shots from over the weekend.

The Madrone in Hollywood:
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b196/bruab/448f4ec8.jpg

An unnamed medical office building going up at Olympic and Normandie. Yeah it's going to be ugly, but it's at least it's mostly built out to the sidewalk.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b196/bruab/801de3e2.jpg

[LAmarODom420]

"Building with no ass(hat) ain't got ish."

- L'il Wayne, Architect

[BrandonJXN]

This I thought was interesting.

From Autoblog.com


Every year, more than 150,000 folks stroll through the halls of the Petersen Automotive Museum. The crowds have been coming to the Los Angles auto-institution since 1994, when the doors were first opened. And it looks like those doors will remain open for many years to come thanks to a very large donation by Margie Petersen and the Margie and Robert E. Petersen Foundation. When we say "large" we mean it, because Mrs. Petersen just handed over $100,000,000 to the Petersen Museum Foundation.

Now, before you jump out of your seat because of all those zeros, we have to explain a bit more about that figure. This $100,000,000 donation is comprised of the 300,000 square foot building, cars that were part of Robert E. Petersen's personal collection, an undisclosed influx of cash (described as a "substantial unrestricted financial gift") and a "matching challenge."

We wanted to find out a little more with regards to just how this $100 million donation breaks down. A quick call to Buddy Pepp, Executive Director of the Petersen Automotive Musuem, helped shed some light on the matter. While Mr. Pepp could not disclose the exact amount of the cash gift they're receiving, he did say that value is "enormous." He went on to state that it's "breathtaking" and will "enable us to do all the things we've wanted or need to do. It will catapult us to a world-renowned status. This donation will allow us to fulfill Bob Petersen's vision." Not only that, the "matching challenge" will make sure that the directing board keeps pushing to help the museum continue to grow.

We were hoping to get to the juicy details, and hear an exact figure, but it's good to know that the Petersen Museum is going to allow people of all ages to get a glimpse of automobiles from all eras. In fact, the total number of vehicles being donated from Petersen's private stock is 135, and that includes a handful of motorcycles as well. It's an incredibly generous gift from a couple that already give to many other groups and charities.

[pesto]

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/04/marina_del_reyeans_tell_supes_they_want_boats_not_buildings_1.php

New developments for MDR that raise interesting issues for me. These developments eliminate 3 parking lots plus parking around existing buildings to be demo'd and replaced, even though there is no rapid transit existing or planned for the area. Apparently demand is expected there in spite of transporation issues.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

This I thought was interesting.

From Autoblog.com

I want to see some of that money the auto museum is getting go to improving the actual building's ugly facade. I'm sure it's pretty well-known even by museum board and staff that their museum turns their back on Wilshire and is completely pedestrian-unfriendly and loses out on a whole lot of people who would probably go to the museum if it were actually VISIBLE from the street.

That museum is a shame.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

Two shots from over the weekend.

The Madrone in Hollywood:
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b196/bruab/448f4ec8.jpg


The Madrone was renamed The Avenue I think.

That is lovely infill density right there!

[ChelseaFC]

An 8-story mixed use development at that busy intersection is perfect. The fact that it'll also have a Trader Joes means that it'll be busy as well with many pedestrians from the neighboring areas that will be walking there.

Haven't you ever heard of the TJPP effect? Trader Joes Pedestrian Phenomenon :)

I wrote about it here:

http://brighamyen.com/2010/10/25/the-trader-joes-pedestrian-phenomenon/

So I drove by the site the other day and wondered what the construction site was, so I looked it up. And I'll guarantee that it won't be a truly desirable location until they fix the damn road. That intersection is easily in the top 5 of worst-maintained major intersections in LA. Driving along Sunset (now fixed), western Hollywood Blvd, and La Cienega is a pretty bad experience.

[pesto]

So I drove by the site the other day and wondered what the construction site was, so I looked it up. And I'll guarantee that it won't be a truly desirable location until they fix the damn road. That intersection is easily in the top 5 of worst-maintained major intersections in LA. Driving along Sunset (now fixed), western Hollywood Blvd, and La Cienega is a pretty bad experience.

And not only here. LA City has the worst US roads in my experience. South central, Boyle Heights, downtown, Wilshire, you name it. Sidewalks too. If serious funds aren't directed at this, it will be what Mayor V. is best remembered for.

[DistrictDirt]

And not only here. LA City has the worst US roads in my experience. South central, Boyle Heights, downtown, Wilshire, you name it. Sidewalks too. If serious funds aren't directed at this, it will be what Mayor V. is best remembered for.

I agree. The road and sidewalk conditions in LA are the worst I've seen in the states. It definitely gives the city a third-world vibe. I get that the city is broke, but c'mon, think long term. Repaving and streetscaping increases the desirability of a neighborhood, which in the long term increases tax revenue for the city. Letting everything degrade doesn't help anybody.

[LAofAnaheim]

And not only here. LA City has the worst US roads in my experience. South central, Boyle Heights, downtown, Wilshire, you name it. Sidewalks too. If serious funds aren't directed at this, it will be what Mayor V. is best remembered for.

Hmmm.....I'm very sure Antonio Villairaigosa will be remembered for Measure R and the dozen of transit projects we'll get because of him.

Remember, those roads were in s***ty condition with Mayor Hahn and other previous mayors, why don't we talk about them? Because it's not a memorable occurence. It's like how Mayor Hahn will be rememberred for Adaptive Reuse ordinance that passed in 1999 which spawned the conversion of historic buildings into mixed uses and lofts. That's memorable. In a lasting legacy, Antonio will have the credibilty of being the "subway mayor" and overturning the Methane Gas federal ban in 2007 when first elected mayor (that was a huge victory in itself, so that LA can get federal funding of subways). I will say, cicLAvia has the POTENTIAL to be another event Antonio will be remembed for if it truly does develop into a monthly event. It wouldn't have happened, without his tremendous support.

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

I agree. The road and sidewalk conditions in LA are the worst I've seen in the states. It definitely gives the city a third-world vibe. I get that the city is broke, but c'mon, think long term. Repaving and street scaping increases the desirability of a neighborhood, which in the long term increases tax revenue for the city. Letting everything degrade doesn't help anybody.

its my biggest annoyance about LA and i hate that nothing is being done or very piecemeal fixes are done. Perception is everything and we need better sidewalks, roads and maintenance

[pesto]

I don't want to argue this particularly since I was mostly complaining about roads and sidewalks. But Hahn will not be remembered for adaptive re-use, or probably for anything at all. Similarly, rail transit is way down on the average LA County resident's list of priorities: education, jobs, street repair, local services, taxes, city wastefulness, local zoning and nuisances and others just swamp it in importance.

As DD and others note, roads and streescape are part of what makes a city livable and attracts people.

I strongly agree with the idea of more transit in certain areas of LA. But Mayor V.'s main contribution in transit is to package in useless projects with useful ones and then trying to get federal loans to be paid out of future transit revenues and taxes. What praise is deserved for taking all the credit and leaving his successors with a debt burdened city? This is unfortunately standard political operating procedure.

[RAlossi]

I don't want to argue this particularly since I was mostly complaining about roads and sidewalks. But Hahn will not be remembered for adaptive re-use, or probably for anything at all. Similarly, rail transit is way down on the average LA County resident's list of priorities: education, jobs, street repair, local services, taxes, city wastefulness, local zoning and nuisances and others just swamp it in importance.

As DD and others note, roads and streescape are part of what makes a city livable and attracts people.

I strongly agree with the idea of more transit in certain areas of LA. But Mayor V.'s main contribution in transit is to package in useless projects with useful ones and then trying to get federal loans to be paid out of future transit revenues and taxes. What praise is deserved for taking all the credit and leaving his successors with a debt burdened city? This is unfortunately standard political operating procedure.

I agree on some of the less useful rail projects. But AV's not saddling the city with debt. These taxes are already in place and will be for 30 years. Seeking federal funds is part of the big picture and will happen simultaneously.

[Illithid Dude]

I agree on some of the less useful rail projects. But AV's not saddling the city with debt. These taxes are already in place and will be for 30 years. Seeking federal funds is part of the big picture and will happen simultaneously.

In this case, both of you have a valid point. What he is doing isn't saddling L.A with debt, since Measure R pays back everything that is being spent on transit. However, Antonio is totally building unnecessary projects and half-assing many of the necessary ones. You know that the Expo Line should have been grade separated. Hell, it could have even been heavy rail, due to the amount of riders it is expected to get. The Crenshaw line is good in theory, but not in the place they are building it. What needs to happen is connecting the Expo Line to the soon to be very highly ridden Purple Line, not the Expo Line to the unnecessary Green Line. Also, that 710 tunnel? 1.5 billion dollers on a project that not only does nobody want, but would be bad for the future of Los Angeles. Yet, good is still being done. The Purple Line, the Regional Connector. These are projects that are great and are vital. Because of all of these contrasting variables, I am sort of unsure about what my feelings are on the current slate of transit projects. This is a classic case of quanitiy before quality. We are getting the transit projects that we need, but not at the quality that we want. Is this good? Is this bad? I suppose we will really only know in the long run.

[SD_Phil]

^I'd assume it's easier to get funds to improve an existing project than it is to get funds to begin the process of creating a needed project. In that respect I think AV is doing us all a huge favor.

[WillPostPix]

In this case, both of you have a valid point. What he is doing isn't saddling L.A with debt, since Measure R pays back everything that is being spent on transit. However, Antonio is totally building unnecessary projects and half-assing many of the necessary ones. You know that the Expo Line should have been grade separated. Hell, it could have even been heavy rail, due to the amount of riders it is expected to get. The Crenshaw line is good in theory, but not in the place they are building it. What needs to happen is connecting the Expo Line to the soon to be very highly ridden Purple Line, not the Expo Line to the unnecessary Green Line. Also, that 710 tunnel? 1.5 billion dollers on a project that not only does nobody want, but would be bad for the future of Los Angeles. Yet, good is still being done. The Purple Line, the Regional Connector. These are projects that are great and are vital. Because of all of these contrasting variables, I am sort of unsure about what my feelings are on the current slate of transit projects. This is a classic case of quanitiy before quality. We are getting the transit projects that we need, but not at the quality that we want. Is this good? Is this bad? I suppose we will really only know in the long run.

man, I've been out of the loop too long, I guess but...what is the 710 tunnel? For some reason I thought that someone had called a halt on connecting the Expo Line to the Purple Line. Clearly I was wrong though...

[LAofAnaheim]

I don't want to argue this particularly since I was mostly complaining about roads and sidewalks. But Hahn will not be remembered for adaptive re-use, or probably for anything at all. Similarly, rail transit is way down on the average LA County resident's list of priorities: education, jobs, street repair, local services, taxes, city wastefulness, local zoning and nuisances and others just swamp it in importance.

As DD and others note, roads and streescape are part of what makes a city livable and attracts people.

I strongly agree with the idea of more transit in certain areas of LA. But Mayor V.'s main contribution in transit is to package in useless projects with useful ones and then trying to get federal loans to be paid out of future transit revenues and taxes. What praise is deserved for taking all the credit and leaving his successors with a debt burdened city? This is unfortunately standard political operating procedure.

Do you think Los Angeles is the ONLY city in America that has a debt problem during the Great Recession? Maybe you should read about Chicago, New York, Portland, Seattle, Phoenix, Charlotte, etc.... It's not an LA problem...it's an ECONOMIC national problem. It's a problem for Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike.

[LAofAnaheim]

^I'd assume it's easier to get funds to improve an existing project than it is to get funds to begin the process of creating a needed project. In that respect I think AV is doing us all a huge favor.


Right. Is there any other mayor who's been championing a culture change in Washington DC with America Fast Forward? Truly, if this thing goes through, which is Antonio's puppy on a NATIONAL agenda....it will seal Antonio's legacy as one of the most influential mayors in a long time!

[BrandonJXN]

http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011_04_worknotice.jpg
http://la.curbed.com/uploads/2011_04_worknotice.jpg

[Illithid Dude]

man, I've been out of the loop too long, I guess but...what is the 710 tunnel? For some reason I thought that someone had called a halt on connecting the Expo Line to the Purple Line. Clearly I was wrong though...

The 710 tunnel is going to be a big 'ole new freeway that will connect two existing freeways.

[pesto]

I guess sidewalks and roads are on everybody's mind. Quite righly, the merchants of Weswood believe that improve sidewalks will make people want to live and shop there. And UCLA is kicking in, because they are competing with Stanford, Berkeley, etc., and these areas have new and beautiful streetscaping on University, Shattuck and many other streets.

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2011/05/can_a_business_improvement_district_perk_up_westwood_village.php

The disturbing part is that basic sidewalk repair needs to be funded by ADDITIONAL taxes. What is the city wasting its money and human talent on? You would think basic maintenance is the last thing to go in a well-managed city.