CA - Port of LA reveals draft connectivity plan for waterfront redevelopment
The reimagining of the Los Angeles Waterfront has been in the works since the turn of the century. With construction on the redevelopment well underway, the Port of Los Angeles last week released the first draft of its plan to better connect the area to other San Pedro neighborhoods and the region at large.
The plan includes a host of recommendations to improve access to the waterfront as well as promote mobility once visitors are there. The report examined roadways and traffic flow, public transit, pedestrian and bicycle access, and creating “points of interest” through space activation, art and more.
Connectivity is crucial to encourage tourism in the area after the more than $1 billion overhaul is complete.
“The Port of Los Angeles has made significant investments over the last two decades focused on deindustrializing the LA Waterfront and transforming it into a visitor and recreational destination,” Mike Galvin, director of waterfront and commercial real estate at the Port of Los Angeles, said in a statement. “Community input has been a critical component throughout the process.”
The port, in conjunction with landscape architecture, planning and urban design firm SWA Group, hosted six public workshops the first half of the year. Nearly 300 people attended the meetings to provide feedback on the connectivity plan, according to the port.
The draft plan was presented to the LA Harbor Commission during its Sept. 7 meeting. Another public meeting is slated for Sept. 28, during which port staff will provide a more detailed presentation and accept additional public feedback.
During the commission meeting, SWA co-CEO Gerdo Aquino said nine comments “rose to the top”:
- Walkability and bikeability are important;
- Public transit improvements;
- Trolley and water taxis should be used to attract visitors;
- Visitors like a good view and historic landmarks;
- Improved signage;
- More amenities with better connection;
- More lighting, open space, seating and art;
- Sustainability and climate resiliency;
- Access to the waterfront is limited mostly to personal cars or walking.
“Now more than ever, people are seeking a reconnection with themselves, each other, and the natural environment around them,” Aquino read from his presentation. “San Pedro’s Waterfront Connectivity Plan is the catalyst that will allow this to happen.”
