Saving LA: Neighborhood efforts

One of the interesting features of today's conference is the way neighborhoods are involved is preserving their communities. There is something to be said for pride in ownership. There was a discussion about the Neighborhood Character Ordinance, but then, there was a short documentary on the Del Mar Theatre on Pico and how the community along Pico between La Brea and Beverwil. The documentary talked about the history of the area and how the impact of regional commercial centers had a negative impact on Pico and the surrounding community. They revealed that it really takes a community to come together to effect change and preservation. It talked a lot about the auto repair shops impact a community in such concentration. (which has led to the propsed Atou Use Ordinance still pending before City Council).

This community was promised $3 million in City funds for reidevelopment, but they've only seen about $1 thus far. An emphasis was made on lighting - from the Del Mar Theatre to the smaller buildings.

This community used Community Beautification Grants to install community marque signs to help define the neighborhood.(Each sign cost about $7,000.)

The Pico Revitalization effort used their relationships with the City Council offices to really get things done. Getting things done really is all about relationships, The speaker also stressed patience - it's taken years to get what they've done completed.