COUNCILMEMBER HUIZAR SECURES $1 MILLION

FOR BRINGING BACK BROADWAY

Infrastructure Improvements and Streetscape Plan Receive Block Grant Boost

LOS ANGELES (April 15, 2009) – Los Angeles City Councilmember José Huizar has successfully secured $1 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for the implementation of the Brining Back Broadway Infrastructure Improvement and Streetscape Plan. This is in addition to $550,000 already secured through CDBG in a prior year.

“A comprehensive, intensive streetscape and infrastructure improvement plan is vital for the long-term success of this historic district, which is transit rich, but severely threatened by antiquated infrastructure, increasing vacancies and business loss,” said Councilmember Huizar.

“Historic buildings on Broadway have basements that extend out under the sidewalks, which are collapsing in places. These infrastructure improvements and pedestrian enhancements will ensure Broadway’s infrastructure remains safe, that our pedestrian and transit experience is enjoyable, and that we create a true sense of place on Broadway that is cohesive from block to block and which respects the important historic character of the district,” said Huizar.

Broadway’s infrastructure and construction dates back to the early 1900’s. Many buildings contain basements which extend out from property lines underneath the sidewalks. After long years of use and rigorous environmental conditions, many are in serious states of disrepair and deterioration, and the infrastructure in one of the city’s oldest and most historic corridors, is literally crumbling.

The corridor is one of the busiest transit corridors in downtown, but the pedestrian and transit experience can sometimes be confusing and uncoordinated. The corridor also suffers from a lack of coordinated amenities and street furniture, inconsistent and pedestrian-accessible wayfinding signage and harsh pedestrian lighting. (MORE)

In addition to sidewalk reconstruction, the plan will help make transit more user-friendly and accessible by enhancing the pedestrian and transit-user experience, and helping the pedestrian find transit service and walkable routes to downtown destinations. The plan will promote sustainability in the downtown urban environment by utilizing solar energy, energy efficient lighting, water recycling and unified power distribution and encourage the utilization of existing buildings within a National Historic Register District.

Improved infrastructure and a streetscape plan will spur economic development and job creation and encourage public-private revitalization while supporting plans for an intended streetcar circulation system

The Broadway Streetscape Master Plan process got underway earlier this year utilizing a portion of the previous CDBG allocation under a CRA/LA contract with Melendrez Design Partners. The project continues to conduct comprehensive outreach and solicitation of public input.

The “Broadway Walk,” a community kick-off event was held on February 17, 2009. The event allowed community and City stakeholders and participants to walk the length of Broadway from 2nd to Olympic and provide feedback in English and Spanish on their vision for the streetscape at eight interactive stations set up along the route on topics such as Green Streets; Street Design; Character/Historic Influence; Transit Stations; Design Palette; Paseos/Open Space; Curb Extensions/Crossings; and Pedestrian Safety & Comfort. More than 100 people participated in the event, including many pedestrians, residents and workers who were utilizing the street.

A public meeting/community workshop is scheduled for May 27, 2009 to review design options for the streetscape as well as to review draft ideas for the Broadway Entertainment Community Design Overlay Zone. The workshop will solicit feedback from stakeholders, and inform the community of next steps for both important Bringing Back Broadway projects. Please visit www.BringingBackBroadway.com

Related information

• Broadway – Streetscape Walk
• Broadway Streetscape Master Plan Unveiled
• REMINDER – Broadway Open House – 5/27/2009
• Broadway Public Meeting – 5/27/2009
• Final Broadway Streetscape Design – Public Meeting