February 20, 2017 I VOL. 46 I #8
Inside this week
DEVELOPMENT
Updates On 106 Downtown Projects, Plus a Residential Section Pages 7-20
The 16th Annual Downtowners of Distinction Winners Honoring 11 Projects That Made Downtown a Better Place in 2016 Pages 21-24
The Metro Bike Share project is one of the recipients of a Downtowners of Distinction prize.
photo by Gary Leonard
THE VOICE OF DOWNTOWN L.A. SINCE 1972
2 Downtown News
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AROUND TOWN
L.A. State Historic Park to Reopen in April
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t’s been a long journey for Los Angeles State Historic Park. It closed in April 2014 for what was supposed to be a year-long renovation. Debuts have routinely been pushed back, including one for early 2017. Still, the $20 million overhaul is nearly complete, and the 34-acre attraction near Chinatown is now slated to reopen in April, according to State Parks Superintendent Sean Woods. Currently, park officials are literally waiting for the grass, which was seeded over the last several months, to grow to maturity, Woods said. Los Angeles State Historic Park was always a popular spot for joggers and families, and also hosted some huge live music events. The renovation has created major changes. There’s a paved parking lot, a visitor’s center, restrooms and a promenade that can host events. The field itself has been redesigned with undulating hills, a “great meadow,” and a wetlands area for native plants. One highlight is the curving pedestrian bridge that allows visitors to look out over the property.
New Details for Arts District Project
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ew details for the transformation of the Challenge Cream and Butter Building have emerged. London-based Est4te
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS Four bought the two-story edifice at 929 E. Second St. in the Arts District in late 2015 for $21.6 million. The developer initially planned a five-story structure for the site. Environmental documents filed with the Department of City Planning reveal some changes, starting with creating a seven-story building with a unique feature: a mechanized parking system that would lift vehicles from the ground floor to a fourthfloor lot with 241 spaces. Other elements include a 71,161-square-foot private club, retail on the ground floor up to part of the third floor, and offices and artist studios. Renderings show a modern glass and metal design sitting above the preserved original structure, which was built in 1926. No timeline or budget date has been revealed. Many in the community knew the building as the longtime home of the Loft Ensemble theater company. It staged its final Downtown performance last May.
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Boutique Hotel Conversion Planned for Firehouse
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historic firehouse on Santa Fe Avenue could be the next Arts District building to be modernized. Plans filed with the Department of City Planning call for Engine Company No. 17, at 710 S. Santa Fe Ave., to be turned into a 10-room boutique hotel. The two-story building would also include a restaurant and some retail space. At only 10 rooms, the business would be even smaller than the recently opened 14-room Tuck Hotel in the Fashion District. The building served as a firehouse until 1980. A developer known as Engine Real Estate purchased the property in 2007. The project is currently awaiting entitlements, and no timeline or budget
February 20, 2017
South District Yard
Unveiling New City Trash Bins
have been announced. The firehouse is across the street from the Ford Factory Building, a massive structure that is being turned into a home for Warner Music Group.
Renderings Revealed for Sixth Street Viaduct Park
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he team behind the Sixth Street Viaduct replacement has unveiled designs for the 12-acre public space that is being created as part of the bridge project. Renderings for the Sixth Street Mobility Park, Arts and River
Mayor Eric Garcetti
February 16, 2017
Commons (also known as the M-PARC) show stairways, bike loops and ramps linking green space and paved pathways under the viaduct to the bridge’s “ribbon of arches” design. The majority of the park is on the Boyle Heights side of the Los Angeles River, but the Arts District portion holds 3.76 acres of public space. The team behind the project recently held a pair of community meetings in the Arts District and Boyle Heights. The $482 million viaduct project is scheduled to finish in 2019. The Arts District side will include an art park named for and funded by late developer and arts patron Leonard Hill.
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February 20, 2017
Downtown News 3
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4 Downtown News
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EDITORIALS
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Tom Fassbender, Jeff Favre, Greg Fischer, Emily Manthei ACCOUNTING: Ashley Schmidt
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS
CIRCULATION: Danielle Salmon DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Salvador Ingles DISTRIBUTION ASSISTANTS: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla February 20, 2017
©2016 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Civic Center News Inc. All rights reserved. The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles.
One copy per person.
Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis
Mayor Eric Garcetti Deserves Another Term
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ince being elected mayor of Los Angeles four years ago, Eric Garcetti has scored more landmark achievements than the previous two mayors did in a combined 12 EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Sue Laris years. Mayor Jim Hahn’s most impactful moves over one term GENERAL MANAGER: Dawn Eastin were fending off Valley secession and firing Police Chief BerEXECUTIVE EDITOR: Jon Regardie nard Parks, and replacing him with the groundbreaking WilSENIOR WRITER: Eddie Kim liam Bratton. Antonio Villaraigosa’s only home run (and it was STAFF WRITER: Nicholas Slayton a huge one) during a recession-ravaged eight years in office CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Kathryn Maese was persuading voters to pass a sales tax that sped up mass S I N C E 19 7 2 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Tom Fassbender, Jeff Favre, Greg transit projects throughout Los Angeles County. Los Angeles Downtown News Fischer, Emily Manthei Garcetti has already run herd on a county sales tax that 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 piggybacks on the one Villaraigosa pushed. The measure phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 ART DIRECTOR: Brian Allison web: DowntownNews.com approved by voters further expands rail projects in the reASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR: Yumi Kanegawa email: realpeople@downtownnews.com gion. Garcetti was also the point person for persuading city PHOTOGRAPHER: Gary Leonard voters in November to pass the $1.2 billion property tax facebook: bond Proposition HHH, which over a decade will build up ACCOUNTING: Ashley Schmidt L.A. Downtown News to 10,000 apartments for homeless individuals. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING MANAGER: Catherine Holloway twitter: The mayor proposed boosting the city minimumSwage ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway, Brenda Stevens, I N C E 19 7 2 DowntownNews Michael Lamb to $13.25 an hour, initiating a process that ultimately reLos Angeles Downtown News ©2016 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News SALES ASSISTANT: Claudia Hernandez sulted in aW.$15-an-hour standard; move set the groundis a trademark of Civic Center News Inc. All rights reserved. 1264 First Street, Los Angeles, the CA 90026 The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newsworkphone: for similar efforts in•other cities. Additionally, Garcetti 213-481-1448 fax: 213-250-4617 CIRCULATION: Danielle Salmon paper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every played a key role in persuading George Lucas to bring his nomic downturn. Garcetti ran for election on a “Back to Basics” agen The next term will bring numerous challenges. Many people expect web: DowntownNews.com • email: realpeople@downtownnews.com Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Salvador Ingles Los Angeles. $1 billion Lucas Museum of Narrative Art to Exposition Park, da and largely stuck to the script in his first DISTRIBUTION years, while also traveling that a local and national economy that has zoomed during the last ASSISTANTS: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla One copy per person. beating outfacebook: a spot on San Francisco’s Treasuretwitter: Island. A less frequently to Washington, D.C., and building on a strong relationship four years could cool. We have seen only minor reform of the DepartL.A. Downtown News DowntownNews colorful but still major achievement for Garcetti was getting with President Barack Obama. Garcetti helped secure federal funds ment of Water & Power, despite proclamations during Garcetti’s first Los Angeles to take serious earthquake preparedness steps. for important local efforts, whether that involved homelessness, a Los run that he would overhaul the controversial entity (his handpicked EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Sue Laris & for PUBLISHER: Sue Laris general manager, Marcie Edwards, resigned after less than three At the same time, Garcetti has often frustrated City Hall Angeles River revitalization plan or securingEDITOR money Metro’s ReGENERAL MANAGER: Dawn Eastin GENERAL MANAGER: Dawn watchers, drawing criticism for a penchant for avoiding takgional Connector project in Downtown Los Angeles. All that cash is Eastin years). There is also the danger of a potential municipal fiscal crisis — EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Regardie ing public stances on Jon some thorny and divisive issues. For even more important now, as the financial pipeline for the city is uncity reports indicate challenges such as rising payouts for lawsuits and EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Jon Regardie SENIOR Eddie Kim when the LAUSD was lookinstance, heWRITER: remained low-key certain with Donald Trump in the White House. unfunded liabilities (read: retirement burdens of city employees). SENIOR Eddie STAFF WRITER: Nicholasthough Slayton past mayors including Viling for a superintendent, Garcetti seems to have “graduated” from BackWRITER: to Basics, andKim The city will also be tested by increasing crime and worsening CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Kathryn Maese inserted themselves STAFF WRITER: Nicholas laraigosa and Richard Riordan publicly his office these days only occasionally references the phrase as Slaytongridlock, not to mention local action on immigration that could CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Tom Fassbender, Jeff Favre,Garcetti Greg Fischer, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Kathryn lead Maese in these type of educational matters. Additionally, the mayor seeks to address pressing matters such as homelessto a collision with the Trump Administration. In all these matEmily Manthei S I Nforceful C E 19leader. 7 2 We are CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Tom Fassbender, Jeff Favre, never indicated whether he supported or opposed Proposiness. During a visit with the Los Angeles Downtown News editorial ters Los Angeles is going to need a vocal, Greg Fischer, Emily Manthei ARTaDIRECTOR: Brian Allison tion JJJ, union-backed measure that impacts housing conLos Angeles board in September, he said he spends approximately 40% of his confident Garcetti can be that person. Downtown News 1264 W.for First Street,But LosofAngeles, 90026 ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR: Yumipassed Kanegawa struction. City voters ultimately it. time on the issue, including rarely publicized efforts with depart Garcetti is not alone in running mayor. the 10 CA other peoART DIRECTOR: Brian Allison phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 Ultimately we are far more swayed by the achievements ment heads. While it’s a big number, we urge him to keep at it, and ple on the ballot, only Mitchell Schwartz has distinguished himself PHOTOGRAPHER: Gary Leonard web: DowntownNews.com ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR: Kanegawa than the shortcomings, and we think that a figure who has to amp up his presence on the issue — spreading homeless en- Yumias a credible candidate. Schwartz deserves more respect than he has email: realpeople@downtownnews.com ACCOUNTING: Ashley Schmidt PHOTOGRAPHER: Gary Leonard grown into the job of mayor can continue to evolve. Los Ancampments are worrying people in all neighborhoods. received — he has raised nearly $370,000, a significant amount when gelesCLASSIFIED Downtown News endorses Eric Catherine Garcetti for the 5 1/2ADVERTISING MANAGER: Holloway facing an incumbent of Garcetti’s stature. Schwartz has put together The big knock on Garcetti, as we say, has been that his approach facebook: ACCOUNTING: Schmidt position papers and run a real campaign. ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine year term (extended because of aHolloway, coming Brenda changeStevens, in city Michael Lamb is often too careful, that he avoids publicly wading intoAshley controL.A. Downtown News SALES ASSISTANT: ClaudiaJuly Hernandez election dates) that begins 1. versial matters for fear of alienating voters who might be asked to That said, the mayor’s office is a serious over-reach for Schwartz, and CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING MANAGER: Catherine Holloway twitter: WeCIRCULATION: think that ifDanielle he focuses on the matters at hand, and consider him during a future run for a higher office. Garcetti denies he’d be better off aiming first for a lower elected post where he can Salmon DowntownNews ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway, is willing to take some tough stances, then he can achieve this, and told the editorial board, “I don’t mind conflict, actually. But gain some applicable political experience. His resume holds nothing DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Salvador Ingles Brenda Stevens, Michael Lamb greatDISTRIBUTION things. Los ASSISTANTS: Angeles willLorenzo need that discipline it has to be with an outcome.” that indicates he could adequately lead a city of 4 million people with Castillo, Gustavoand Bonilla SALES ASSISTANT: Claudia Hernandez ©2016 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown leadership in coming years. a nearly $9 billion annual budget. particularly disappointing It’s a reasoned response, but the problem is, people don’t always News isIta was trademark of Civic Center News Inc. All ©2016 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Civic Center rights reserved. Garcetti, previously when, during a press conference this month, Schwartz was asked if he see that side of him. As this page has stated before, as mayor GarcetNews Inc.who All rights reserved. served 12 years on the City CounThe Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read The Los Angeles Downtown News is thearrived must-read for Downtown Danielle Salmon is for or against Measure S. “Inewspaper cil, including six as its president, innewspaper the mayor’s suite Los Angeles don’t know, ” he responded, before ti needs to consistently be a capital letter “L”CIRCULATION: Leader, and not just for for Downtown Los Angeles and issaying disand is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los every Well, Monday throughoutunderstands the offices and with Angeles. a keen understanding of the mindset of Angelenos afDISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Salvador Ingles he understands both sides oftributed the issue. everyone the optics. The mayor’s office provides an unparalleled bully pulpit for residences of Downtown Los Angeles. ter the Villaraigosa era, where flash and personal style were bothCastillo, sides of the issue, but if Schwartz dreams of being mayor, then those willing to use it. Sometimes we just want our highest elected Lorenzo DISTRIBUTION ASSISTANTS: One copy per person. One copy per person. Gustavo Bonilla in high order and the city was slow to respond to the ecohe needs to be willing to lead and make the tough decisions. official to stand up on a controversial matter and help guide us.
EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Sue Laris GENERAL MANAGER: Dawn Eastin
S I N C E 19 7 2 Los Angeles Downtown News 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 web: DowntownNews.com • email: realpeople@downtownnews.com facebook: L.A. Downtown News
twitter: DowntownNews
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Jon Regardie SENIOR WRITER: Eddie Kim STAFF WRITER: Nicholas Slayton CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Kathryn Maese CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Tom Fassbender, Jeff Favre, Greg Fischer, Emily Manthei ACCOUNTING: Ashley Schmidt
ART DIRECTOR: Brian Allison ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR: Yumi Kanegawa PHOTOGRAPHER: Gary Leonard CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING MANAGER: Catherine Holloway ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway, Brenda Stevens, Michael Lamb SALES ASSISTANT: Claudia Hernandez CIRCULATION: Danielle Salmon DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Salvador Ingles DISTRIBUTION ASSISTANTS: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla
©2016 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Civic Center News Inc. All rights reserved. The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles.
One copy per person.
February 20, 2017
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
Downtown News 5
Fresh Fruit With Gil Cedillo Talking Money, Community and Next Month’s Election With the First District Councilman By Jon Regardie he first thing I notice when I enter Gil Cedillo’s fourth floor City Hall office is a big bowl of fruit on the coffee table. It’s the First District Council rep’s afternoon snack and it looks delicious, all glistening hunks of melon and bright berries. It sits next to a glass of orange juice so tall it would satiate a giraffe.
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THE REGARDIE REPORT Over 45 minutes the fruit barely gets touched, as Cedillo, who is up for re-election next month, discusses his record, the diverse community, the criticisms flung his way, and more. He manages only the occasional bite and the OJ doesn’t once touch his lips. There’s a lot to discuss. Cedillo doesn’t seem to relish the conversation. This isn’t to say he is impolite or unfriendly — nothing of that sort. Rather, he appears to view this encounter as something between a necessary evil and a chore. That said, it’s a chore for which his office is prepared. Greeting me on the table is a folder packed with stapled reports detailing accomplishments Cedillo has made since taking office in 2013. These touch on affordable housing, sanitation, street lighting and other district issues. His staff has even slapped a Los Angeles Downtown News logo in the corner of a sheet of paper that highlights achievements in six areas. The two aides in the room with us make sure that nothing is overlooked.
It’s unexpected, though maybe it shouldn’t be. Cedillo, after all, has clocked nearly two decades in public office, with stints in the state Senate and Assembly before replacing termedout Councilman Ed Reyes four years ago. He knows every facet of the game. Yet in a way this degree of interaction is surprising, because one of the most frequently heard criticisms of Cedillo is that he has a limited presence in the district. His primary opponent in the March 7 election, Joe Bray-Ali, has harped on the matter, alleging that Cedillo won’t meet with certain groups and stakeholders. I tell Cedillo that I too live in the district and that, anecdotally, I’ve heard similar complaints. I say that I see him in the area less than I saw previous council reps. I ask, is this description accurate? “It’s inaccurate,” he responds. “There’s two things to that. One is, I don’t see you, and I don’t see [Bray-Ali], except in specific places. So when I’m on Normandie and Pico I don’t see you. When I’m in Pico Union I don’t see you. When I’m at MacArthur Park I don’t see you. There’s a lot of places in the district.” This retort is just the beginning, and that’s par for the course with Cedillo — you may well disagree with him, but his answers are thought out and have a logic behind them. He speaks assuredly, like a guy who’s endured worse. After all, he served in the legislature when Arnold Schwarzenegger was governor. Getting back to the issue of his presence in
Gil Cedillo won the First District City Council seat, which includes Chinatown and City West, in 2013. He is up for re-election March 7.
photo by Gary Leonard
the district, Cedillo references having a staff ingrained in individual neighborhoods. Sure, all pols say this, but Cedillo is particularly passionate, and he’ll return to the point later. “I’ve hired a very professional and competent staff to service my district,” he says. “The second part is to then make sure that staff is committed and loyal to the values we have, the vision we have. So we do that and we’ve done that.” The Money Game Like the other 14 council districts, Cedillo’s First is absurdly huge and sprawling. It has ap-
proximately 250,000 residents and a constituent base that ranges from Highland Park hipsters to Chinatown families to immigrant communities in MacArthur Park. Despite the size, election turnout is routinely abysmal — Cedillo won his 2013 runoff against Reyes’ former deputy Jose Gardea with just over 10,000 votes. Many were surprised when the Los Angeles Times recently endorsed Bray-Ali over Cedillo, but Cedillo says he expected it (“The Times has never endorsed me,” he says). Even Continued on page 26
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6 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
Wet Sidewalks, Wet People, Big Problems Property Owner Uses Sprinklers to Clear Homeless Encampments After Saying He Received No Help From the City By Eddie Kim n a recent Thursday evening at about 8 p.m., a set of sprinklers turned on alongside a building at 470 E. Third St. For several minutes they spread water across a wide expanse of empty sidewalk. It was not an isolated incident. For months, if not longer, community members say, the sprinklers outside the building have been turning on each night at around 8 p.m., 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. The result is that homeless individuals in the community know not to set up near the building at Third and Crocker streets. “Everyone who lives around here knows about it. I’ve had to move because of the sprinklers, sure,” Floyd Lee Howard, Jr., who has been sleeping in the neighborhood, told Los Angeles Downtown News recently. “Others have gotten soaked at night without warning, though.” The building belongs to Steve Lee, who owns dozens of properties in the Industrial District and more in South Los Angeles. He has owned land in the area for more than 30 years. Lee acknowledged that he installed the sprinklers and turns them on every night with the goal of clearing the sidewalks of homeless encampments. Despite that, Lee rejects the notion that he is inhumane for literally soaking homeless individuals on what is technically public property. He points to a record of trying to help the poor and struggling, including taking on county and city departments and nonprofits as tenants.
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The building at 470 E. Third St., for instance, holds Project 180, a nonprofit center that helps former criminals with counseling, drug rehabilitation, job training and other issues. It is a subsidiary of Special Services Group, a massive Skid Row umbrella nonprofit and one of Lee’s main tenants. SSG distributes programs and aid to assist, among others, homeless people. Lee also has his own charitable nonprofit: The Steve and SoHyun Park Lee Foundation, which offers school grants and other assistance to low-income communities. He is quick to talk up his decades in the community, and touts the positive change he sees in Downtown Los Angeles. He is also unapologetic about his use of sprinklers as a deterrent to homeless encampments, blaming the city for allowing the homelessness crisis to spiral “out of control” and for not helping property owners keep the public spaces around their business clean and safe. “I don’t want to use sprinklers,” Lee said. “The thing is, it works. Because people get wet, and they don’t need to deal with that. You know what those homeless guys told me when I didn’t have sprinklers and asked them to please move? They told me to go [expletive] myself.” Homelessness Worsens Sprinklers also sprout from the facade of the building at 333 S. Central Ave. that holds Lee’s offices; the 1908 structure is currently for sale, per a listing on the real estate site Loopnet. Lee would not say if any of his other buildings have sprinklers, and also claimed he is not the only 1
9/26/16
10:10 PM
Property owner Steve Lee has been running sprinklers at night over sidewalks near a property he owns on Third Street to deter homeless people from blocking the paths. He said city officials have failed to take steps to keep the walkway clear, which makes life problematic for the tenants of his building. photo by Eddie Kim
area property owner to use them. That is news to Estela Lopez, the executive director of the Central City East Association, which operates the Industrial District Business Improvement District and conducts clean-andsafe programs in the neighborhood. “Sprinklers were common decades ago. As far as I know, they were outlawed. Everyone took them down. This is the first (and only) that I’ve heard of,” Lopez wrote in an email to Downtown News. “Everyone around here knows sprinklers are not permitted.” A 1993 directive by the L.A. City Council banned using sprinklers after an outcry that building owners were using them to clear homeless individuals away from Industrial District properties.
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Lee would not say when he started using the sprinklers. He said that in the past, he and his employees would go out and clean sidewalks by hand, using hoses to wash down the concrete. The LAPD only forced encampments away for short periods of time, Lee said, while the CCEA and city cleaning and outreach programs focused on the Skid Row core, not the fringes of the district near Third Street. Meanwhile, the homelessness problem has grown more severe in the neighborhood sometimes referred to as Skid Rokyo, Lee said. Developer Dilip Bhavnani, a property owner whose Downtown holdings include the nearby structure that houses the Escondite and Mumford Brewing, also observed that Continued on page 25
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 7
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT Say Hello to the High-Rises
FOREMAN AND CLARK BUILDING
701 S. Hill St. Developer: Bonnis Properties Budget: N/A Height: 13 stories Residences: 124 one- and two-bedroom apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: A transformation of the 1928 Art Deco edifice has been announced several times in the past, but all efforts faltered. In November, Bonnis revealed its plans to turn the vacant Financial District structure into housing. Designs from OKB Architecture include a gym, media room and other amenities. The original lobby would be preserved.
The Latest Updates on 106 Downtown Projects By Eddie Kim, Emily Manthei, Jon Regardie and Nicholas Slayton aybe it’s the turbo-charged national economy. Maybe it’s the Los Angeles housing shortage that has caused both rents and home sale prices to spike. Maybe it’s the pressure developers face of trying to launch a project before voters cast ballots on Measure S in March. Maybe it’s all of the above. Whatever the case, the Downtown Los Angeles development scene is busier than ever, and has surpassed pre-recession peaks. Everywhere you look in the Central City, there are cranes and construction workers (not to mention closed streets and sidewalks) building new high-rises and landmarks. In the last five months, developers have announced more than a dozen projects, from a reimagining of the Southern California Flower Market, complete with a residential tower, to the Olympia, a three-pronged South Park high-rise that would create more than 1,300 apartments. These occur as other long-awaited developments near the finish line: In the coming months, projects including the Wilshire Grand replacement and Los Angeles State Historic Park are scheduled to open. In the following pages, Los Angeles Downtown News provides the latest information on 106 projects. From Chinatown to South Park, from City West to the Arts District, housing, retail and office efforts are underway. We have altered our Development format in the effort to make it easier to track individual projects. We think it’s a better look. We hope you agree.
1600 S. FIGUEROA ST.
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JMF TOWER
333 W. Fifth St. Developer: JMF Development Budget: N/A Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: In October, developer Jeffrey Fish revealed plans for a tower that would rise on an L-shaped lot that wraps around Fish’s Pershing Square Building. Fish is trying to secure entitlement for the project that would either be 55 stories, with 100 condos, 200 hotel rooms and 27,500 square feet of retail; or 57 stories, with 142 condominiums and 25,000 square feet of retail.
LUCAS MUSEUM OF NARRATIVE ART
NEW PROJECTS
These projects were either publicly announced, were revived or gained prominence in the past five months.
7TH AND MAPLE
Developer: Realm Group and Urban Offerings Budget: N/A Height: 33 stories Residences: 454 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: urban-offerings.com/projects/maple.html The Latest: The Fashion District project announced in October would replace a parking lot with a steel and glass tower designed by Humphreys & Partners Architects. It would include 13,000 square feet of commercial space and 561 parking stalls. The developer is seeking entitlements.
211 W. ALPINE ST.
Developer: Izek Shomof Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Size: 220 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: In September, Shomof revealed plans for a residential building about a block south of the Chinatown Gold Line Metro station. The project would set aside six apartments for very-low-income residents. Plans include 120 subterranean parking spaces and 124 bike spaces.
1000 S. HILL ST.
Developer: Onni Group Budget: N/A Height: 48 Stories Residences: 498 units Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: The Vancouver-based developer in January announced that it intends to build a high-rise on a current parking lot. Chris Dikeakos Architects will handle designs on the South Park project that will have 711 parking spaces.
image courtesy Gensler
Developer: L&R Group of Companies Budget: N/A Height: 52 stories Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: On Feb. 1, L&R filed plans with the city for a highrise that would be defined by a large chasm in the middle of the structure. The South Park project would hold 202 condominiums and 134 apartments (with 23 condos and nine apartments set aside for affordable housing), a 250-room hotel with a 3,000-square-foot restaurant, 6,500 square feet of office space and 9,000 square feet of retail.
CAMBRIA HOTEL
926 James M. Wood Blvd. Developer: Sun Holdings DTLA, Barry Beitler, Pacific Property Partners, Choice Hotels Budget: N/A Height: 18 stories Rooms: 247 Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: Summer/2019 Key Details: The developers in December announced plans for the hotel aimed at business travelers. They are seeking entitlements for the project that would have a white facade and a partially slanted roof.
EIGHTH AND HOPE TOWER
754 S. Hope St. Developer: Mitsui Fudosan America, a subsidiary of the Japanese firm Mitsui Fudosan Budget: N/A Height: 40 stories Residences: 409 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: mfamerica.com/portfolio The Latest: The developer this month filed plans with the city for the high-rise that would replace a parking structure.
image courtesy Lucas Museum of Narrative Art
3800 S. Vermont Ave. Developer: George Lucas Budget: $1 billion Size: 312,000 square feet Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: 2017/2021 The Latest: On Jan. 10, the Lucas Museum’s board of directors announced that the complex would be built in Exposition Park; Los Angeles was chosen over a site on San Francisco’s Treasure Island. The museum being designed by Ma Yansong will display Lucas’ collection of film artifacts, animation and art. It will include a theater hosting daily screenings, lecture halls and a library.
MAIN STREET PARK
1100 S. Main St. Developer: Jade Enterprises Budget: N/A Height: 8 stories Residences: 379 units, including 40 low-income apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: The project announced in October is being designed by architecture firm MVE+Partners, and would have a glass exterior and four levels of parking (three underground). The building would also hold roughly 26,000 square feet of office and retail space. Jade is currently preparing for the environmental study.
MORRISON HOTEL
1246 S. Hope St. Developer: Hollywood International Regional Center Continued on page 8
8 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
Development
PROJECT UPDATES, 7 Budget: N/A Height: 4 stories Size: 80 rooms Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: In November, plans were announced to redevelop the 102-year old Morrison Hotel building. The property, made famous on the cover of The Doors’ 1970 album of the same name, was last used as low-income housing, but has been vacant since 2008. If approvals are secured, HIRC would also work with Skid Row Housing Trust to build a five-story, 111-unit project at 401 E. Seventh St.
photo by Gary Leonard
buildings has reached the third floor. The project will include rooftop decks, 22,000 square feet of retail and a courtyard.
NORTON BUILDING
755 S. Los Angeles St. Developer: Urban Offerings and ESI Ventures Budget: N/A Height: 5 stories Size: 100,000 square feet Anticipated Groundbreaking: Late 2017 Website: urban-offerings.com/projects/755-la The Latest: A transformation of the 1914 Fashion District building into creative office space was announced in December. Lynch Eisenger Design and Omgivning are handling designs for a project that would have 64,000 square feet of office space and ground-floor retail. Entitlements are being sought.
OLYMPIA
image courtesy Brooks + Scarpa
the project that would have vendor and office space in the lowrise structure.
TIMES MIRROR SQUARE TRANSFORMATION
100 S. Broadway Developer: Onni Group Budget: N/A Residences: 1,127 units Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: Onni Group acquired Times Mirror Square in the fall and then announced plans to replace two of the complex’s five buildings with a pair of high-rise towers. Along with the residences, the towers would hold 34,572 square feet of commercial space. Onni is currently working on designs and preparing the environmental impact report for the Civic Center project.
RESIDENTIAL-UNDER CONSTRUCTION 255 GRAND RENOVATION
image courtesy City Century
1001 W. Olympic Blvd. Developer: City Century, a subsidiary of Shanghai-based Shenglong Group Budget: N/A Residences: 1,367 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: city-century.com/our-communities/olympia The Latest: In December, City Century announced plans for a three-tower residential complex north of the L.A. Live movie theaters. It would include a podium connecting the towers and 40,000 square feet of commercial space. The design from Skidmore, Owings & Merrill includes more than 115,000 square feet of open space.
PALMETTO COLYTON
527 Colyton St. Developer: Bolour Associates Budget: N/A Height: 12 stories Residences: 310 condominiums Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: bolourassociates.com The Latest: In September, Bolour filed plans with the city for the Arts District project. Entitlements are being sought for the development that would include 394 parking spaces.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FLOWER MARKET
755 Wall St. Developer: Southern California Flower Market Budget: N/A Height: 14 stories Residences: 290 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: In October, representatives of the Southern California Flower Market announced plans to renovate and modernize one of two old buildings on site, and to raze the other one and replace it with a residential tower. Brooks + Scarpa is designing
255 S. Grand Ave. Owner: Goldrich and Kest Industries and Shapell Properties Budget: $34 million Height: 27 stories Residences: 391 Anticipated Completion: October Website: 255grand.com The Latest: The project is 80% complete, with upgrades wrapping on the second of three phases of construction. The final phase of work on the 1989 Bunker Hill complex will focus on units on floors 8-14. Improvements also include a 2,400-squarefoot fitness center, four barbeque pits and meeting rooms.
825 S. HILL ST.
Developer: Onni Group Budget: N/A Height: 49 stories Residences: 490 apartments Anticipated Opening: N/A The Latest: Construction crews have finished the base of the tower and have surpassed the fifth level, according to Onni Development Manager Mark Spector. The building designed by Chris Dikeakos Architects will include a roof deck and other amenities. No opening date has been revealed.
950 S. BROADWAY
Developer: G.H. Palmer Associates Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 30 apartments Anticipated Opening: Spring The Latest: Some delays have pushed the opening of Geoff Palmer’s renovation of a small 1913 building from late last year to the spring. The project will include a rooftop deck and approximately 7,500 square feet of retail space. Designs from Killefer Flammang Architects include a decorative cornice along the roofline and balconies that reflect the original design.
1212 S. FLOWER ST.
Developer: Onni Group Budget: N/A Height: a 40-story tower and a 31-story tower Residences: 730 units Anticipated Opening: 2019 The Latest: Excavation of the subterranean parking complex is underway, according to Onni Development Manager Mark Spector. There will be 842 parking stalls and a podium will connect the two towers. Chris Dikeakos Architects is handling designs.
1400 S. FIGUEROA ST.
Developer: DHG Family Trust Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Anticipated Opening: Late 2017 Residences: 106 apartments The Latest: Framing and construction continues on the South Park project being designed by GMP Architects. It will include 4,700 square feet of ground-floor-retail
ATELIER
888 S. HOPE ST.
Developer: CIM Group Budget: N/A Height: 34 stories Residences: 525 apartments Anticipated Completion: Summer 2018 Website: cimgroup.com/investments/888-s-hope The Latest: Construction continues on the Financial District high-rise, with crews starting to install glass. The project will include a public park, an outdoor pool, and a recreation and garden area on top of an adjacent parking structure.
950 E. THIRD ST.
Developer: Legendary Development and Fairfield Residential Budget: N/A Height: 6 stories Residences: 472 apartments Anticipated Opening: Late 2018 The Latest: Construction continues on the five Arts District buildings designed by Kava Massih Architects. Work on some
photo by Gary Leonard
801 S. Olive St. Developer: Carmel Partners
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 9
Development
Budget: N/A Height: 33 stories Residences: 363 apartments Anticipated Opening: March Website: atelierdtla.com The Latest: The final touches, including interior detailing and a metallic facade on the parking podium, are being completed on the Financial District high-rise. It includes a five-story parking facility.
pool and rooftop deck, 8,900 square feet of ground-floor retail space, and is designed by MVE+Partners.
HOLLAND PARTNER GROUP/ SIXTH AND BIXEL
HOLLAND PARTNER GROUP/ VIBIANA LOFTS
BROADWAY PALACE
938-1026 S. Broadway Developer: G.H. Palmer Associates Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 686 apartments Anticipated Opening: This month Website: broadwaypalaceapartments.com The Latest: Move-ins start this month on the first phase of Geoff Palmer’s complex. The six-story building at Broadway and Olympic Boulevard has 247 apartments. Meanwhile, work continues on a 10-story building at 938 S. Broadway that will have 439 rental units. That second phase is slated to debut later this year. Both buildings combined have about 20,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space.
E ON GRAND
1249 S. Grand Ave. Developer: 4D Development Budget: $30 million Height: 7 stories Residences: 115 apartments Anticipated Opening: April Website: 4ddevelopment.us The Latest: Work is nearly complete and finishes are being applied on the South Park project designed by AFCO Design. There are two levels of underground parking. Starbucks has signed a 10-year lease for 2,100 square feet of retail space.
FOREST CITY/SOUTH PARK
1100 S. Hill St. and 1200 S. Broadway Developer: Forest City Budget: $135 million Size: 391 apartments Anticipated Opening: Summer Key Details: Seven-story buildings on Hill and Broadway will each have 7,500 square feet of ground-floor retail. The Hill edifice will have 177 apartments, while the Broadway building will have 214 units. Amenities include a pool, spa, outdoor deck, fitness center, pet spas and a film room. The Latest: Work continues on the project with
Height: 28 stories Residences: 341 apartments Anticipated Opening: Late 2018 The Latest: The foundation is being prepared at Ninth and Figueroa streets. Designs by Preston Partnership show a glass tower with box-shaped clusters of balconies. Nearly 11,700 square feet of retail space would front the sidewalk, primarily along Ninth Street.
photo by Gary Leonard
designs by Harley Ellis Devereaux and Togawa Smith Martin.
G12
1200 S. Grand Ave. Developer: Astani Enterprises Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 347 apartments Anticipated Opening: March Website: astanienterprises.com The Latest: Work is nearly complete and pre-leasing began in January for the South Park project. It is the second phase of Astani Enterprises’ development that includes the Olive DTLA building.
HOLLAND PARTNER GROUP/ 732 S. SPRING
Developer: Holland Partner Group Budget: N/A Height: 24 stories Residences: 303 apartments Anticipated Opening: Late 2018 The Latest: Construction on the lower levels of the tower has begun. The project will have a pool and outdoor terrace, with 7,200 square feet of ground-floor retail space. The design from MVE+Partners features a line of balconies and a wavy main facade.
photo by Gary Leonard
1065 W. Sixth St. Developer: Holland Partner Group Budget: $200 million Height: 7 stories Residences: 606 apartments Anticipated Opening: Summer The Latest: Interior construction continues on the two buildings that compose Sixth & Bixel. They share a parking garage and also feature about 25,000 square feet of combined retail space. It is designed by Togawa Smith Martin.
HOLLAND PARTNER GROUP/ SOUTH PARK
712 W. Ninth St. Developer: Holland Partner Group Budget: N/A
226 S. Main St. Developer: Holland Partner Group Budget: $90 million Height: 7-8 stories Residences: 237 apartments Anticipated Opening: May The Latest: Workers are building out the interior of the project that appears to be seven stories when viewed on Main Street, but eight from Los Angeles Street. It has 247 parking stalls and about 4,000 square feet of retail on the ground floor.
MACK URBAN/SOUTH PARK
1120 S. Grand Ave. Developer: Mack Urban Height: 38 stories Residences: 536 apartments Anticipated Opening: 2019 Website: mackurban.com The Latest: The high-rise broke ground last July and work crews have begun vertical construction. The project will include 13,000 square feet of retail and a 9,000-square-foot park. The first phase in Mack Urban’s overall $1 billion South Park development, the Wren Continued on page 10
HOLLAND PARTNER GROUP/ EIGHTH AND SPRING
Developer: Holland Partner Group Budget: N/A Height: 24 stories Residences: 275 apartments Anticipated Opening: Late 2018 The Latest: Like its sister project across the street, construction of the lower floors of the tower is underway. The project will have a
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10 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
Development
PROJECT UPDATES, 9 apartments, will open shortly. Details of a third phase have not been revealed.
OLYMPIC AND OLIVE
1001 S. Olive St. Developer: Lennar Multifamily Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 201 apartments, including 12 two-story townhomes Anticipated Opening: N/A Website: livelmc.com Key Details: The South Park project designed by KTGY Architects will have a pool deck, roof deck, dog run and fitness center. The Latest: Oakwood Worldwide has confirmed that they will provide some furnished apartments for corporate housing, but the number of residences has not been disclosed.
Height: 7 stories Residences: 159 apartments Anticipated Opening: Second quarter of 2017 The Latest: The project that broke ground in 2014 is in the final stage of construction. It will include a swimming pool, a fitness center and 23,000 square feet of commercial space
WREN
Height: 27 Stories Residences: 305 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: alexandtla.com The Latest: Although city officials approved the project, an appeal filed by residents in the neighboring Eastern Columbia Building and other Downtown inhabitants continues to delay construction. The CallisonRTKL-designed tower would rise on a current parking lot and contain a podium with 336 parking spaces.
BEACON TOWER
343 S. Hill St. Developer: Equity Residential Budget: N/A Height: 33 stories Residences: 428 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: Equity continues to seek permits for the high-rise, which has drawn opposition from area stakeholders who contend it is too tall and does not fit the look of the community.
ONYX
BROADWAY AND OLYMPIC CONDOS
photo by Gary Leonard
photo by Gary Leonard
500 W. Pico Blvd. Developer: Jade Enterprises Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 410 apartments Anticipated Opening: Second quarter of 2017 The Latest: The project that includes 462 parking spaces and 30,000 square feet of commercial space is in the late stages of construction. The architect is TCA.
PARK FIFTH
Fifth Street between Olive and Hill Developer: Macfarlane Partners Budget: N/A Size: a 7-story and a 24-story building Residences: 660 apartments Anticipated Opening: 2019 Website: macfarlanepartners.com The Latest: Excavation is complete on the first part of the project north of Pershing Square. A groundbreaking for the second phase of Park Fifth, the 24-story tower, is scheduled for early this year. Architecture firm Ankrom Moisan is handling designs.
TEN50
1050 S. Grand Ave Developer: Trumark Urban Budget: $125 million Height: 25 stories Residences: 151 one- and two-bedroom condos and six oneand two-story penthouses Anticipated Opening: This month Website: ten50.la The Latest: The South Park condominium complex, designed by Hanson-L.A., is ready for move-ins. The project is more than 60% sold, with residences starting in the $600,000s.
TOPAZ
550 S. Main St. Developer: Jade Enterprises Budget: N/A
Pico Boulevard and Hill Street Developer: Mack Urban Height: 7 stories Residences: 362 Anticipated Opening: First quarter 2017 Website: livewren.com The Latest: Finishes are being applied and pre-leasing is underway at the apartment complex that is the first phase of Mack Urban’s South Park development. The project designed by Togawa Smith Martin includes an outdoor pool and spa and two rooftop decks.
RESIDENTIAL-IN PLANNING 520 MATEO ST.
Developer: Carmel Partners Budget: N/A Height: N/A Residences: 600 condominiums Anticipated Groundbreaking: Late 2017 The Latest: Carmel Partners is seeking entitlements for a project that would rise on a two-acre plot along Santa Fe Avenue and Fourth Place in the Arts District. It would include 60,000 square feet of retail space. A 1988 industrial building on the site would be demolished.
601 SOUTH MAIN
601 S. Main St. Developer: Barry Shy Budget: N/A Height: 38 stories Residences: 452 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: Entitlements are being sought for the Historic Core project formerly known as SB Omega. Plans filed with the city call for seven levels of parking. Once construction begins, the developer estimates it will take 18 months to build.
995 S. Broadway Developer: Barry Shy and Joe Bednar Budget: N/A Height: 15 stories Residences: 163 condominiums Anticipated Groundbreaking: Late 2017 The Latest: The City Planning Commission in January approved the project that would include a rooftop pool and eight commercial spaces at street level. Construction would take 18 months.
BROOKS BUILDING
646 S. Broadway Developer: 640 S. Broadway Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 30 apartments Anticipated Opening: N/A The Latest: Plans are being finalized for the project that would turn the mostly empty J.E. Carr building into a modern residential structure. It would include an automated parking system and a 2,500-square-foot bar.
CAREER LOFTS
675 S. Bixel St. and 1111 W. Seventh St. Developer: United American Properties Budget: N/A Height: a 36-story tower and a 7-story hotel Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: Career Lofts would include a residential tower with 422 apartments, plus a low-rise hotel with 126 rooms, along with a total of 596 parking stalls. The Latest: UAP is seeking entitlements for the City West project.
CATALINA BUILDING
920 S. HILL ST.
Developer: Barry Shy Budget: N/A Height: 32 stories Residences: 239 condominiums Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: N/A Key Details: The tower designed by David Takacs Architects would rise behind the Ace Hotel. There would be five commercial spaces on the ground floor.
ALEXAN
850 S. Hill St. Developer: Trammell Crow Residential Budget: N/A
photo by Gary Leonard
443 S. San Pedro St. Developer: Statewide Acquisition Corp.
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 11
Development
Budget: $20.5 million purchase price; no construction budget announced Size: 6 stories Residences: 78 live/work lofts Anticipated Opening: Late 2018 The Latest: Statewide Acquisition is seeking historical landmark status for the 1923 Catalina Building. The developer is also working through the building permit process. Architecture firm Omgivning is handling designs.
EIGHTH AND FIGUEROA TOWER
744 S. Figueroa St. Developer: Mitsui Fudosan America, a subsidiary of the Japanese firm Mitsui Fudosan Budget: N/A Height: 43 stories Residences: 436 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: mfamerica.com/portfolio The Latest: The developer is seeking entitlements for the Financial District tower that would rise on a current parking lot next to the FIGat7th complex.
EMERALD
1340 S. Olive St. Developer: Jade Enterprises Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 154 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: The Department of City Planning has approved the Emerald’s entitlements. MVE+Partners is handling the designs.
ETCO HOMES LITTLE TOKYO
118 Astronaut Ellison S. Onizuka St. Developer: Etco Homes Budget: N/A Height: 9 stories Residences: 77 apartments
Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: First quarter 2017/2018 The Latest: The developer is securing the permits needed to begin construction. Demolition began in late January. Construction is expected to take 18 months on the Little Tokyo project designed by Greg Bucella of BGA Inc.
FERRANTE
1000 W. Temple St. Developer: G.H. Palmer Associates Budget: N/A Height: N/A Residences: 1,437 apartments Anticipated Opening: N/A Website: ghpalmer.com The Latest: Developer Geoff Palmer has filed plans with the city for a massive project on the western edge of the 110 Freeway. The 9.6-acre plot has a four-story parking garage and 10-story office building that would need to be demolished. Ferrante would include parking for about 2,600 vehicles and 1,680 bicycles.
FOURTH AND BROADWAY TOWER
Southeast corner of Fourth Street and Broadway Developer: SCG America, a subsidiary of Shanghai Construction Group Budget: N/A Height: 34 floors Residences: 450 condominiums Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: Summer/2020 The Latest: A one-story building with some stores has been demolished in advance of construction. Architect CallisonRTKL is refining designs for the tower. The land was purchased for $32 million.
GARLAND BUILDING
Height: 11 stories Residences: 47 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A
740 S. Broadway Developer: 740 S. Broadway Budget: N/A
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photo by Gary Leonard
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12 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
Development
PROJECT UPDATES, 11
of retail space. The Latest: Shenzhen Hazens is seeking financial assistance; the City Council in late 2016 agreed to look at economic incentives for the developer.
The Latest: The developer is finalizing plans for a refurbishment of the 1913 building that houses the Globe Theatre. HLW Architects is handling designs on the project that includes a pair of bars on the ground floor. The theater would remain open during construction.
METROPOLIS
SAPPHIRE
1111 W. Seventh St. Developer: Jade Enterprises Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 369 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: Jade is preparing the environmental study for the project that would demolish an existing office building and create two structures connected by an above-grade bridge.
THE HILL
photo by Gary Leonard
940 Hill St. Developer: 940 Hill LLC Budget: $130 million Height: 20 stories Residences: 234 apartments Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: Entitlements were secured last June, but work has yet to begin.
VARA
1233 S. Grand Ave. Developer: City Century, a subsidiary of the Shenglong Group Budget: N/A Height: 24 stories Residences: 165 units Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: city-century.com The Latest: The South Park project has had a name change, to Vara from Grand Residences. Steinberg Architects is working on designs for a slightly hexagonal building that would have studios to three-bedroom residences and 215 parking spaces. Construction is expected to last two years.
MIXED USE 6AM
Sixth and Alameda streets or 1211 Wholesale St. Developer: SunCal Budget: $2 billion Opening: N/A Website: suncal.com/our-communities/6th-alameda Key Details: The project would have 1.4 million square feet of apartments and 674,000 square feet of condominiums (comprising 1,305 apartments and 431 condos), located in seven-story structures and two 58-story towers. There would also be 265,000 square feet each for a hotel and offices, 64,000 square feet of retail, 18,000 square feet for a school, and another 18,000 square feet for “cultural” uses. The Latest: Irvine-based SunCal submitted plans for 6AM to the city in late September. Entitlements are expected to take two years. The futuristic, concrete-and-steel design comes from architecture firm Herzog + de Meuron.
BROADWAY TRADE CENTER
Address: Eighth Street between Hill and Broadway Developer: Waterbridge Capital Budget: $130 million purchase price; construction budget not disclosed Size: 1.1 million square feet Anticipated Opening: 2018 Key Details: The 1908 Beaux Arts complex will have a two-floor food hall. The Historic Core complex, being redesigned by Omgivning, would also have creative office space, a private club, a 10th floor public roof deck with a pool, and a 150-room hotel. The Latest: Waterbridge representatives would not provide details on the progress of the project.
CIRCA
1200 S. Figueroa St. Developer: Partnership led by Jamison Services and Hankey Investments
Budget: $500 million Height: Two 36-story towers Residences: 648 condominiums Anticipated Opening: Early 2018 Key Details: The complex will have 770 parking spaces and a seven-story podium with 48,000 square feet of retail space. There will also be a two-acre amenity deck and a 15,000-squarefoot ribbon of signage along Figueroa Street. The Latest: Construction of the podium is complete and the skeletons of the two towers are about half-built. Windows have been installed on lower levels.
889 Francisco St. Developer: Greenland USA, a subsidiary of Chinese developer Greenland Budget: $1 billion Opening: In phases through early 2018 Website: metropolislosangeles.com Key Details: Phase 1 includes an 18-story, 350-room Hotel Indigo and a 38-floor tower with 308 condos; Phase 2 has 40- and 56-story condominium buildings with 514 and 736 units, respectively. Metropolis also has 70,000 square feet of retail space. The Latest: Move-ins for the first condo tower began in January, and the Hotel Indigo opens in March. The first tower is more than 75% sold, according to Metropolis.
OCEANWIDE PLAZA
COLLEGE STATION
Northeast corner of North Spring and College streets Developer: Atlas Capital Budget: N/A Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: Spring/2019 Key Details: College Station would have six low-rise buildings with retail on the ground floor and plazas between the structures. Sited on 5.7 acres across from Los Angeles State Historic Park, it would create a total of 770 apartments and 51,000 square feet of retail, including a roughly 37,000-square-foot market. The Latest: Securing final entitlements pushed Atlas Capital’s plan for a groundbreaking into this year.
HERALD EXAMINER RENOVATION
1111 S. Broadway Developer: Hearst Corporation and Georgetown Co. Budget: N/A Anticipated Opening: Early 2018 Key Details: The renovation of the 103-year-old landmark will restore Julia Morgan’s design while converting the interior into about 80,000 square feet of creative office space. There would also be ground-floor retail. The Latest: Crews began physical work on the building in late December, and are now commencing the interior demolition.
LA PLAZA CULTURA VILLAGE
Developer: County of Los Angeles and Trammell Crow Budget: $140 million Anticipated Opening: Late 2018 Key Details: The residential, retail and arts complex rising on two county-owned parking lots will have buildings rising four, five and eight stories. Architecture firm Johnson Fain is designing the project that will have 355 apartments; 20% will be set aside for low-income residents. The project will hold more than 43,000 square feet of commercial space. The Latest: Construction crews are nearly finished excavating the two sites. Work on the foundation will continue into spring.
LUXE HOTEL REPLACEMENT
1020 S. Figueroa St. Developer: Shenzhen Hazens Budget: $700 million Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: Phase one would include a 32-story, 250-room W Hotel and a 32-floor condominium tower along 11th Street at Figueroa and Flower streets. Phase two would bring a 42-story tower where the Luxe City Center hotel now stands. The development would have 650 condominiums and 80,000 square feet
photo by Gary Leonard
1100-1198 S. Figueroa St. Developer: Oceanwide Budget: $1 billion Anticipated Opening: Late 2018 Website: oceanwideplaza.com Key Details: The project will hold a 49-story tower and two 40-floor buildings on a 100-foot-tall podium (with 1,444 parking stalls) across from Staples Center. Plans include 504 condominiums and 184 hotel rooms (under the Park Hyatt brand), plus more than 166,000 square feet of retail space. Oceanwide Plaza will have a 40,000-square-foot LED sign along Figueroa. The Latest: The underground parking garage and podium are currently being built.
OLYMPIC TOWER
811 W. Olympic Blvd. Developer: Neman Family Real Estate Budget: N/A Height: 57 stories Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: The high-rise would have 374 residential units, 373 hotel rooms, 33,500 square feet of creative office space and 65,000 square feet of retail space. The Latest: The developer is seeking entitlements for the project that would replace the car wash on the northwest corner of Figueroa Street and Olympic Boulevard.
ROW DTLA
777 Alameda St. Developer: Atlas Capital Budget: N/A Anticipated Opening: Spaces are debuting on a rolling basis,
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 13
Development
with several retail and dining concepts slated to debut over the course of this year. Website: rowdtla.com Key Details: The 1.3 million-square-foot project with seven buildings will comprise creative office space, and approximately 100 stores and 20 restaurants. It includes a series of “themed streets.” The Latest: Row DTLA last month announced leases for the nearly 40,000-square-foot Tartine Manufactory (comprising a grain mill, bakery, market, coffee roastery and more) and a slew of commercial clients such as Real Office Centers (27,000 square feet) and denim company J Brand. Tartine is expected to open this fall.
THE GRAND
Southeast corner of First Street and Grand Avenue Developer: Related Companies Budget: $950 million Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: 2018/2022 Key Details: The complex being designed by Frank Gehry would have a residential tower with up to 450 units (20% set aside as affordable housing), a 305-room Equinox hotel, and a retail and restaurant component around a Central Plaza The Latest: The City Council in December approved the latest joint-venture partnership and timeline for the long-gestating project. Related also announced that Chinese company Overseas Real Estate Pte. Ltd, also known as CORE, will invest $290 million in the project.
THE REEF
The Latest: The tower is 93% complete, according to a project spokesman, with the interior currently being built out.
CIVIC FIGUEROA CORRIDOR BIKEWAY
Budget: $20 million Anticipated Opening: Summer Website: myfigueroa.com. Key Details: The road diet from Seventh Street to 41st Street is cutting eight driving lanes to five on Figueroa, and building new bike lanes with curbs that protect cyclists from cars. MyFigueroa, as the project is known, also will create transit platforms that extend the sidewalk, new landscaping, lighting and signage. The Latest: MyFigueroa broke ground in October and construction is progressing on stretches of Figueroa Street, though the winter rains have caused some delays.
FIRST AND BROADWAY PARK
Developer: City of Los Angeles Budget: $28 million Anticipated Groundbreaking: Early 2018 Key Details: The design from Mia Lehrer + Associates features a central hardscape plaza that would be flanked by pockets of greenery with seating. A two-story structure on the northwest corner of the two-acre site would have an amphitheater-like seating area. The Latest: The city is working on preliminary engineering and anticipates asking for additional community input in the next several months, according to a representative from City Councilman José Huizar’s office.
LOS ANGELES STATE HISTORIC PARK
Website: streetcar.la Key Details: The 3.8-mile urban circulator would travel in a loop from the Civic Center to South Park, with a main spine on Broadway. A spur to Grand Avenue and Second Street is no longer part of the route. The streetcar has secured $65 million for construction via a tax that would be levied on property owners along the route. The Latest: Streetcar officials and 14th District City Councilman José Huizar hope to secure funding for the project from the recently passed Measure M. That money is currently set to arrive in 2053, but project backers want to expedite the schedule. That would depend on a surplus of tax revenues from Measure M, according to a Metro representative.
MERCED THEATER AND MASONIC HALL
420 N. Main St. Developer: City of Los Angeles Budget: $23 million Size: 18,000 square feet Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: This summer/2019 Key Details: Rehab of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument property will retain the east and west facades while adding more natural light to the south perimeter. Public access Channel 35 will be a tenant and there will be a 49-seat television studio that can host performances and events. The Latest: The project will go out to bid at the end of the month. Construction is anticipated to begin by August.
MUSIC CENTER PLAZA RENOVATION
135 N. Grand Ave. Developer: Music Center and the County of Los Angeles Budget: $30 million Key Details: The project will rework the 52-year-old performing arts campus, flattening various rises and dips, and extending the eastern stairway so it stretches across more of the Grand Avenue side. Three new restaurants will open and there will be enhanced patio seating, as well as permanent bathrooms. The Latest: A groundbreaking has been pushed back from February to the spring. Work will last 15 months.
PERSHING SQUARE REDESIGN
image courtesy The Reef
1933 S. Broadway Developer: Avedis and Ara Tavitian Budget: $1.2 billion Anticipated Groundbreaking/Opening: 2017/2021 Website: reefprojectla.com. Key Details: The Reef would spread across two city blocks on either side of Broadway. Phase one would hold a 208-room hotel and a seven-story building with about 100 apartments, plus an eight-story parking structure, retail and commercial spaces, and a 17,000-square-foot public plaza. The second phase would bring mid-rise buildings with about 440 apartments, as well as 32- and 35-story towers with nearly 900 combined condos, plus more retail space and parking. As part of its agreement with the city, the developer is giving $15.2 million to preserve affordable housing and is setting aside 5% of the apartments for lowincome renters. The Latest: The Reef secured final city approvals in December. Construction of the first phase “West Block” could commence in the spring. The second phase would start around the time the first eight-story parking structure is completed.
WILSHIRE GRAND REPLACEMENT
900 Wilshire Blvd. Developer: Hanjin International Budget: $1.1 billion Height: 73 stories Anticipated Opening: June Website: wilshiregrandcenter.com Key Details: The tower deigned by AC Martin will have a 900room hotel operated by InterContinental and 400,000 square feet of office space, along with retail and restaurant space.
image courtesy Pershing Square
photo by Gary Leonard
1245 N. Spring St. Budget: $20 million Anticipated Opening: April Key Details: The 32-acre park has been reshaped to feature open meadows, rolling hills, a promenade, restrooms, a visitors’ center, a paved parking lot, a wetlands area and a pedestrian “bridge” with a lookout point. The Latest: The project has been delayed many times, including because of soil contamination, and, later, waiting for the grass to take root. Now construction is done and the park is nearly ready to open.
LOS ANGELES STREETCAR
Budget: $266 million Anticipated Opening: 2020
Developer: City of Los Angeles Budget: $50 million Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Website: pershingsquarerenew.com Key Details: The design from Paris-based Agence Ter would flatten the park down to street level and create greenery across most of the property. Amenities and a shade structure would run along Hill Street between Fifth and Sixth streets. The Latest: The city has secured $2 million to fund a preliminary site survey and analysis, and continues to raise design funds, according to a representative from City Councilman José Huizar’s office.
REGIONAL CONNECTOR
Developer: Metropolitan Transportation Authority Budget: $1.75 billion Anticipated Opening: 2021 Key Details: The 1.9-mile Regional Connector will join area light rail lines to streamline cross-county travel and reduce the need for transfers. The project includes new stations at First and Central, Second and Broadway, and Second and Hope. The Latest: Underground tunneling has begun. Moving old utility lines means that Metro has boosted the price by nearly $200 million. This would bring the cost of the Regional ConnecContinued on page 14
14 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
Development
PROJECT UPDATES, 13 tor 28% above its original budget of $1.36 billion. The project needs to be finished by May 2021 or Metro risks losing federal grant dollars.
SIXTH STREET VIADUCT REPLACEMENT
Developer: City of Los Angeles Budget: $482 million Size: 3,500 feet long Anticipated Opening: 2020 Website: sixthstreetviaduct.org Key Details: The replacement for the Sixth Street Viaduct, being designed by Michael Maltzan, will have a “ribbon of arches” theme and bicycle and pedestrian paths. The Arts District side of the bridge will include an art park named for late developer Leonard Hill. The Latest: Demolition of the old viaduct was completed in December, and construction of the new bridge has begun with foundation piles on the east side of the river.
hauled. The new anchor tenant will be mega-church Hillsong L.A., which will use the 1,100-seat theater for services.
BUSINESS 537 S. BROADWAY
Developer: King’s Arch Budget: $7.35 million purchase price; $4 million for renovations Size: 45,000 square feet Anticipated Opening: July Website: kingsarch.com The Latest: King’s Arch has completed much of the renovations of the Art Deco, 1931 building originally designed by Percy Eisen and Albert Walker. The developer will soon roll out marketing efforts for creative office space in the 3,000- to 9,000-square-foot range and retail spaces from 3,500 to 8,000 square feet.
AT MATEO
COMMUNITY
777 S. Santa Fe Ave. Developer: Shorenstein Properties Budget: N/A Height: 5 stories Size: 254,000 square feet Anticipated Opening: 2018 The Latest: Warner Music Group in October announced that it had signed a 13-year lease for the entire Arts District building. The structure is being upgraded, and the company will move staff from offices in Burbank and the Westside.
HARRIS BUILDING
110 W. 11th St. Developer: Jade Enterprises Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Anticipated Opening: Summer The Latest: Work is nearly complete on the South Park project. Each of the top six levels will hold roughly 7,600 square feet of creative office space. The ground floor and basement of the 1923 Beaux Arts structure will become retail commercial space.
TITLE INSURANCE BUILDING
BUDOKAN OF LOS ANGELES
237-249 S. Los Angeles St. Developer: Little Tokyo Service Center Budget: $24 million Size: 63,000 square feet Anticipated Groundbreaking/Completion: 2017/2018 Website: budokanoflosangeles.com Key Details: The sports and activities complex being designed by Gruen Associates will include a four-court gymnasium, rooftop terrace, outdoor event space and a community room. The Latest: Project backers say 90% of the funds have been raised. They are also working on raising an additional $5 million for an endowment to cover operations and maintenance. They hope to break ground this year.
GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL MEDICAL PAVILION
photo by Gary Leonard
555 Mateo St. Developer: Blatteis and Schnur Budget: $90 million Anticipated Opening: May Website: atmateo.com Key Details: Four buildings with retail and creative office space will replace a former set of Arts District warehouses. There will be 130,000 square feet of retail space, 50,000 square feet of office space, a rooftop deck and 540 parking spaces. The Latest: Work on the project designed by Edge Architecture is nearly complete and the developer is ramping up for a spring opening. At Mateo representatives plan to announce some tenants soon.
CITY MARKET SOUTH
photo courtesy Good Samaritan Hospital
1245 Wilshire Blvd. Developer: Good Samaritan Hospital Budget: $80 million Size: 190,000 square feet Opening: Third quarter The Latest: In December, the initial group of physicians began seeing patients at the City West medical facility, and a new entrance opened. The full expansion will include the Frank R. Seaver Ambulatory Surgery Center, with eight operating room suites, a pharmacy and outpatient clinics.
11th and San Julian Developer: LENA Group Budget: $2 billion (entire City Market) Anticipated Opening: First quarter Website: citymarketsouth.com Key Details: The 75,000-square-foot first phase of the massive City Market project will include the restaurants Slanted Door, Rossoblu and a cocktail bar. The overall, $2 billion project, being developed by Peter Fleming, will encompass 225,000 square feet of retail, 295,000 square feet of office space, 945 residential units and 210 hotel rooms. The Latest: Most construction on City Market South has been finished and the restaurants are nearly ready to open. Entitlements are being sought for the later phases of the project.
FORD BUILDING
SOHO WAREHOUSE
Address: 1000 S. Santa Fe Ave. Developer: Soho House Budget: $18.5 million for acquisition; transformation budget is undisclosed Size: 7 stories Anticipated Opening: 2018 Website: sohohouse.com The Latest: Soho House representatives said the ground floor will be open to the public. Architecture firm Killefer Flammang is handling designs of the Arts District project that would include a bar, gym, screening room and 48 hotel rooms.
SUBWAY TERMINAL RETAIL
417 S. Hill St. Developer: Forest City Budget: N/A Size: 130,000 square feet Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A Key Details: The ground floor and two subterranean levels of the Metro 417 building are being turned into retail and office space. The street level would hold shops and restaurants, while the first underground level would be office space. There would be office and larger retail tenants on the lower floor. The Latest: The search for tenants is underway. No deals have been signed.
HOTELS CECIL HOTEL RENOVATION
640 S. Main St. Developer: Simon Baron Development Budget: N/A Height: 15 stories Anticipated Groundbreaking: 2017 The Latest: The developer is preparing to renovate the building. Half of the structure will remain a hotel, and the other half would hold 301 micro apartments.
FIG + PICO
VARIETY ARTS CENTER
940 S. Figueroa St. Developer: Robhana Group Budget: N/A Anticipated Opening: 2017 Website: robhana.com The Latest: A ribbon cutting is on track for this year at the 92-year-old South Park complex that is being completely over-
433 S. Spring St. Developer: Rising Realty Partners Budget: N/A Height: 11 stories Size: 320,000 square feet Anticipated Opening: N/A Key Details: RRP and its partner Lionstone Investments plan to turn the 1928 structure into creative office space. There would be retail and restaurant space on the ground floor.
image courtesy of Shorenstein Properties
Northeast corner of Figueroa Street and Pico Boulevard Developer: Lightstone Budget: $450 million Height: 24 and 40 stories Size: 1,100 rooms Anticipated Groundbreaking: 2017 The Latest: Lightstone continues to seek entitlements and negotiate hotel tax incentives with the city. Three hotel brands
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 15
Development
would operate in the two-tower project. Plans include 20,000 square feet of retail and six levels of parking.
FREEHAND HOTEL
Anticipated Opening: Fall Website: sydellgroup.com The Latest: The interior build-out of the 1923 Financial District hotel continues. The design from Killefer Flammang Architects is reshaping the building’s old banking floor into a lobby and space for a bar and restaurant. An event space and swimming pool will be on the roof.
PROPER HOTEL
Fifth and Hewitt Developer: City of Los Angeles Size: one-half acre Budget: $1.6 million The Latest: A ribbon cutting took place Nov. 7 for the community attraction that includes benches, trees, a children’s playground and a performance space. The park has drought-friendly plans and other sustainable features.
CALEDISON
601 W. Fifth St. Developer: Rising Realty Partners Budget: N/A Size: 14 stories Website: thecaledison.com The Latest: Rising Realty in January revealed the transformation of the 1931 building formerly known as One Bunker Hill. The structure has been redesigned as creative office space, and the ornate lobby has been restored. The building achieved LEED Platinum certification in December.
FEDERAL COURTHOUSE
photo by Gary Leonard
photo by Gary Leonard
416 W. Eighth St. Developer: Sydell Group and Yucaipa Company Budget: N/A Height: 13 stories Size: 200 rooms Anticipated Opening: April Website: freehandhotels.com/los-angeles The Latest: The interior build-out continues at the 1924 Commercial Exchange Building. The Freehand will have traditional hotel rooms as well as hostel-style accommodations with multiple beds in group rooms. The website is accepting reservations for April.
HOTEL FIGUEROA RENOVATION
939 S. Figueroa St. Developer: Capital Hall Partners/Urban Lifestyle Group and GreenOak Capital. Budget: N/A Anticipated Opening: Spring Website: hotelfigueroa.com Key Details: 13 stories, 180,000 square feet, 268 guest rooms. Amenities will include a rooftop garden, fitness center, pool and an open-air bar/restaurant. The Latest: Work is nearing the finish line and hotel representatives recently announced that chef Casey Lane and mixologist Dushan Zaric will helm the food and beverage teams, respectively. At press time the website was accepting bookings in June starting at $379 a night.
1106 S. Broadway Developer: Kor Group and Stork/Alma Development Budget: N/A Size: 13 floors, 148 guest rooms Opening: Spring 2018 Website: properhotel.com/downtown-la The Latest: The developers in October began the transformation of the 1924 Case Hotel. Architecture firm Omgivning is handling designs for the project that will include a restaurant and a rooftop pool and lounge.
SPRING STREET HOTEL
633 S. Spring St. Developer: Lizard Capital Budget: N/A Height: 28 stories Rooms: 176 Anticipated Groundbreaking: N/A The Latest: Plans have been polished for a narrow hotel on a current parking lot. The design from architect Adam Sokol includes concrete columns on the lower levels and modern glass elements on the upper half of the building.
OPENED IN THE PAST FIVE MONTHS
350 W. First St. Developer: U.S. General Services Administration Budget: $350 million Size: 10 stories, 633,000 square feet The Latest: The glass-and-steel courthouse opened Oct. 13. The Civic Center building designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, nicknamed the “Floating Cube,” holds 24 courtrooms, 32 judges’ chambers and offices. It includes sustainable elements such as rooftop solar panels and a succulent and oak tree garden irrigated by water collected from the building’s air conditioning system.
OLIVE DTLA
Pico Boulevard and Olive Street Developer: Astani Enterprises Budget: N/A Height: 7 stories Residences: 293 apartments Opened: October Website: olivedtla.com The Latest: The first phase of developer Astani Enterprises’ South Park project is approximately 20% occupied. The second phase, now known as 12th & Grand, will begin move-ins next month.
TUCK HOTEL
ANIMAL MUSEUM
421 Colyton St. Size: 6,000 square feet Budget: N/A Website: theanimalmuseum.com The Latest: Doors to the Arts District’s Animal Museum opened in December. The museum, which was formerly in Hollywood, holds exhibits dedicated to animal rights and protecting animals.
ARTS DISTRICT PARK
HOXTON HOTEL
1060 S. Broadway Developer: Ennismore Budget: $30 million purchase price; no budget announced for renovations Size: 10 floors, 164 rooms Anticipated Opening: 2018 The Latest: The 1922 Los Angeles Railway Building’s transformation is underway. GREC Architects is handling designs for a project that will have a rooftop pool, spa and multiple eateries.
photo by Gary Leonard
NOMAD HOTEL
649 S. Olive St. Developer: Sydell Group Budget: purchase price $39 million; construction budget N/A Height: 12 stories Size: 250 rooms
photo by Gary Leonard
820 S. Spring St. Developer: Juan Pablo Torre Budget: N/A Size: 3 floors, 9,000 square feet Website: tuckhotel.com The Latest: Check-ins at the 14-room Fashion District boutique hotel began Dec. 11. Rooms range from 320-450 square feet, and the hotel includes a restaurant and bar.
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS
16 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL
photo by Gary Leonard
a special advertising supplement
TEN50 Is Now Open Stunning Luxury Residence Creates a New Tower Community in South Park
T
here are moments in time when everything comes together. A thriving location. A stunning new residence. Game-changing architecture meets one-of-a-kind luxury. TEN50 is exactly that — and with more than 60% of units sold, the word is out.
FROM OUR ADVERTISERS That’s because TEN50 is at the heart of the vibrant South Park district and is uniquely situated near art, culture, dining and L.A. Live, the epicenter of Downtown entertainment. This means residents have once-unimaginable choices when it comes to activities within walking distance of their home. TEN50 soars 25 stories with 151 residences and one-, twoor three-bedroom penthouse floor plans for those who desire the best in Downtown living. The project is large enough to be impressive and boutique enough so each resident feels like an integral part of the tower community. One look at the exterior of TEN50 tells you it’s a nuanced take on the luxury high-rise. Stacked glass cubes are a nod to the active urban surroundings and a lightly patterned façade and punched steel add energy and boldness fitting for this city location. TEN50 takes its place at the corner of
South Grand Avenue and 11th Street and will stand out for years to come. The inside is its own story. Start with The Fifty, a stunning lounge that doubles as a 13,000-square-foot oasis of thought-provoking enjoyment. The alluring, resort-style pool lets you swim in the city skyline, while a therapeutic spa, lounge areas and outdoor fireplaces create an unparalleled getaway. TEN50 even offers a glimpse of the future with the first-ever drone-ready landing pad. Place an order. Watch it land. Only at TEN50. The residences are filled with modern, high-end amenities. Elegant hardwood floors bathe in the natural light provided by expansive windows. Kitchens are designed to showcase culinary skills. Even the bathrooms are beautiful to behold. TEN50 is part of a revitalized DTLA. Whole Foods has also bought into the rebirth of Downtown, with a new concept store opening just three blocks from TEN50. TEN50 is now open, with the first residents moving in to enjoy a luxury filled life. Join the community to celebrate this momentous event and schedule a tour today. At 1050 S. Grand Ave. For more information call (213) 8057864 or visit ten50.la.
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 17
DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL
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TrumarkUrban.com Trumark Urban and TEN50 reserve the right to make modifications in plans, exterior designs, prices, materials, specifications, finishes, and standard features at any time without notice. Photographs, renderings, and landscaping are illustrative and conceptual. Real estate consulting, sales and marketing by Polaris Pacific—a licensed California, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington Broker—CA BRE #01499250. ©2017 TEN50. Brokers must accompany their client(s) and register them on their first appointment in order to be eligible for a broker commission.
TEN-10-0139 LA Downtown News_FEB2017_10.25x12.385_FINAL.indd 1
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18 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL
A Model for Success Education and Experience Create Individuals at Pilgrim School
The RandelleGreen Group Offers Unmatched Experience and Knowledge Of the Downtown Residential Market
T
he Pilgrim approach to education is summed up in the phrase: “A Pilgrim student is involved, kind and known.” Small classes, dedicated faculty and a truly nurturing environment, combined with a rigorous, college-prep curriculum in grades K-12, are the hallmarks of a Pilgrim education. The distinctive Reggio-Emilia approach in Early Education starting at age two places the emphasis
FROM OUR ADVERTISERS on child-centered, play-based learning from the beginning. Pilgrim’s Downtown location makes it possible for students to experience the city of Los Angeles as an extension of their classroom, and the classically beautiful campus offers a city experience in a peaceful setting. The heart of a Pilgrim education is the individual student. The wide range of curricular and extra-curricular possibilities, ranging from computer programming and art portfolio development to AP physics and theater arts, along with an extensive choice of sports teams and community service opportunities, mean that every Pilgrim student will find something new to try, and many ways to be involved. Language education begins in kindergarten and every student studies either Mandarin or Spanish, with most achieving fluency by high school. The Mayflower House boarding program brings students from all over the world to the Commonwealth Avenue campus and greatly enriches the community. Pilgrim’s diversity teaches inclusion and empathy organically; Pilgrim students are known for their kindness and fairness, even on the sports field. That doesn’t mean that they don’t earn plenty of trophies — playing hard and playing fair are compatible at Pilgrim. Technology is integrated into and across the curriculum beginning in Early Education, and Pilgrim students learn to balance computer screens and hands-on experimental techniques. The beautiful Brown Family Fine Arts Center and the unique Visiting Writers and Artists programs allow all students to participate in a truly immersive education in the fine arts. In summer 2017, the Field of Dreams will be completed and Pilgrim students will have a full-sized athletic field to further expand the “everybody plays” sports program.
R
andelle Green, broker/CEO of The RandelleGreen Group (Downtown Lofts & Condos), continues to raise the bar in the DTLA real estate market. His commitment to customer service, knowl-
FROM OUR ADVERTISERS
A Pilgrim education gives students the skills to succeed and thrive in a changing world and creates strong individuals who are comfortable with themselves and their world. Every Pilgrim graduate is carefully matched to the college or university best for their individual profile, equipped with the skills they will need to create a unique and meaningful life. To learn more about Pilgrim School, call (213) 355-5211 or visit pilgrim-school.org. Pilgrim School is a division of First Congregational Church of Los Angeles.
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edge of the area, and seasoned negotiation skills have clearly set him apart from his peers. It was 2005 when Green began working in the Downtown market, and his experience since has been well documented. He began his career by leading the sales team for the developers of the Pan-American Lofts. He quickly moved into the pre-construction sales of South Park’s mega complex Evo, Luma, Elleven, where he led the sales and leasing efforts. By 2009, Green spearheaded sales and leasing for the developer of the Financial District’s historic Roosevelt Lofts. “With so many big name brokerages moving into Downtown recently and attempting Continued on next page
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 19
DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL
Continued from previous page to capitalize on the booming Downtown renaissance, there are only a handful of us early agents that have loyally been here from the beginning,” Green says. “The knowledge and
Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore! It’s our business to make you comfortable... at home, downtown. Corporate and long term residency Call Now Fo is accommodated in high style at the Towers Apartments. Contemporary singles, studio, one r bedroom and two bedroom apartment homes provide fortunate residents with a courteous full service lobby attendant, heated pool, spa, complete fitness center, sauna and recreation room Move-In Spec with kitchen. Beautiful views extend from the Towers’ lofty homes in the sky. Mountain vistas and ial slender skyscrapers provide an incredible back drop to complement your decor. Far below are a host of businesses s ready to support your pampered downtown lifestyle. With spectacular cultural events nearby, even the most demanding tastes are satisfied. Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore. Visit the Towers Apartments today.
Re Ne no wl va y te d
255 GRAND
255 South Grand Avenue Leasing Information 213 229 9777 www.255GRAND.com
experience we have gained is unmatched.” After years of working with some of the biggest developers in the country, Green was more than ready to take that knowledge and incorporate it into a solo venture. In 2012 he broke out on his own and has since been credited with moving more than 250 clients into the Downtown L.A. area. “Randelle simply does what he says he’ll do and that’s refreshing,” says one of his clients. “His knowledge of the Downtown real estate market is very impressive. “Walking the various Downtown districts with Randelle is amazing,” notes another client. “He seems to know something about every street corner and building in the area and so many people seem to know him by name.” Thanks to Green’s Midwestern work ethic, The RandelleGreen Group has built its reputation on hard work, honesty, transparency and communication. “Little things, like answering my phone, are a big deal to me,” Green states. “I am just old fashioned enough to think it is important for potential clients to be able to reach a live person on the first try without getting some cold answering machine stating we are out with clients and will get back to you at our earliest convenience!” Green points out that first impressions matter, and he is in this business for the long haul. He observes that many brokers and agents tend to see clients as a “transaction,” in and out with a commission in their pocket. By contrast, Green is focused on building relationships that last. “I want to be your broker for years to come,” Green says. “My grandfather said something to me when I was a teenager and I have never forgot it. He said, ‘To get things that other people don’t have, you have to do things that other people don’t do.’ My experience and reputation have always brought me clients, but it’s my work ethic, accessibility and communication that bring them back.” And as Green’s motto reaffirms, “He puts his name on it.” For more information or to contact Broker/CEO Randelle Green, call (213) 254-7626 or visit TheRandelleGreenGroup.com.
Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room
On-site: ~ Dry Cleaners / Dental Office / Restaurants Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove,Microwave & Dishwasher (most units) ~ Central Air Conditioning & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)
PROMENADE TOWERS
123 South Figueroa Street Leasing Information 213 617 3777 www.THEPROMENADETOWERS.com Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Pool / Spa / BBQ Grills ~ Fitness Center ~ Covered Parking
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove & Dishwasher ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Solariums and/or Balconies
On-Site: ~ Convenience Store / Beauty Salon
MUSEUM TOWER
225 South Olive Street Leasing Information 213 626 1500 www.MUSEUMTOWER.com Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room
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Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dish washer (most units) ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)
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20 Downtown News
February 20, 2017
DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL
Bringing Bunker Hill to New Heights 255 Grand Showcases a Top-to-Bottom Makeover With Stunning Amenities
V
oted Best “from the ground up residential property” by the L.A. Downtown News, 255 Grand reimagines what it means to live grand. 255 Grand, previously known as Grand Promenade, a Goldrich Kest apartment community, is bringing Bunker Hill to new heights with its multi-million dollar, top-to-bottom
FROM OUR ADVERTISERS makeover. Located in prestigious Bunker Hill, this is the go-to neighborhood for fine dining, world-class museums, upscale hotels, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene. 255 Grand offers its residents immediate proximity to attractions such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Museum of Contemporary Art and The Broad. The architectural designs by Nadel Architects bring a fresh new face to this beloved building. With breathtaking views, awe-inspiring balconies, oversized patios and spacious floor plans, the 391-unit high-rise property includes studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments ranging from 480 to 1,335 square feet in a uniquely suburban-urban setting. 255 Grand’s newly remodeled apartments offer residents a true luxury experience, with stainless steel Whirlpool appliances, quartz countertops, deep soaking tubs and Moen faucets. Life at the top awaits you. Enjoy the highest quality living experience at the all-new 255 Grand “Sky Level.” The 26th and 27th
floors feature exclusive, premium finishes and enhanced amenities to complement some of the best views in L.A. Sky Level residents can expect high-end features such as premium Bosch appliances, Danze & Kohler fixtures, Nest 3rd Generation thermostats, oversized rainfall showerheads, luxury woodstyle flooring, deep soak tubs, and ultramodern luxury countertops. In addition, Sky Level residents also enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, cable and parking. The new 255 Grand features a host of
amenities for residents to enjoy. The WiFi Lounge, equipped with a gourmet kitchen, stylish Mid-Century furnishings, large TVs,
and free Internet access, provides residents the ideal place to mingle with friends or host a private party. Enjoy movie nights or the big game from the comfort of your own home with 255 Grand’s new state-of-the-art theater. Additional new amenities include an ultramodern fitness center, yoga studio, and a private meeting room. A 24-hour staffed lobby provides passage to the spacious apartment homes with floor-to-ceiling windows capturing beautiful mountain and city views. Aside from the aesthetics, 255 Grand has expanded on the more practical details by adding a centralized laundry lounge with a built-in laundry alert system, top-notch concierge service, on-site restaurants and dry cleaning. Renovations outside include a fully remodeled pool deck equipped with a heated pool, spa, gourmet barbecue areas, lush landscaping, and new accent lighting. In a nod to the sunny Los Angeles climate, several new outdoor fireplaces with plush seating for entertaining are available yearround. From events in the newly appointed social room to movie nights in the theater, 255 Grand’s renovation tastefully complements the classy Bunker Hill neighborhood. For more information, call the on-site leasing office at (213) 229-9777 or visit 255grand.com.
Risk and Reward The Loft Expert! Group Celebrates Its 15th Anniversary in Downtown
F
ifteen years ago when few people would risk coming Downtown, Bill Cooper set up shop with his real estate company and dove head first into L.A.’s not-quite-a-Downtown center. For the first few years there wasn’t much to sell, but Bill recognized the potential for growth,
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especially in the residential sector, and set out to assist new Downtowners in finding a place to call home. Downtown Los Angeles is a unique market because of its revitalization over the past 15 years. Today, the company watches as crane after crane aggressively changes the skyline with countless developments, both public and private. With all of these new improvements and future plans, experiencing the Downtown lifestyle is an invigorating prospect. Massive residential projects are in the works. State-of-the-art homes are coming online with added entertainment hubs and shopping malls. Food lovers are already amazed at the many fantastic and delicious restaurants Downtown has to offer. New schools and parks have hit the scene with more to come. Downtowners are also enjoying more choices when it comes to transportation, as it moves away from one car for each resident. Access to public transportation, including new Metro Rail and rapid transit stations, is being created. Visitors and residents can now travel to the beach from Downtown L.A., a reality that was only a wish and a dream 15 years ago. Through all of these many changes, Bill Cooper’s The Loft Expert! Group has been at the forefront of helping Downtowners
buy, sell and lease their homes. This past year Bill had the privilege of selling Johnny Depp’s largest penthouse at the Eastern Columbia Lofts, awarding him the honor of representing the highest price ever paid for a home and the largest home ever sold in Downtown’s Historic Core. “I am thrilled at the changes that have been made Downtown and I can’t wait to see what the next 15 years bring,” Cooper said. “Every day we take another step toward becoming one of the nation’s most desirable and celebrated downtown centers, and I am happy to be a part of that!” Whether you are looking to purchase, sell or lease, Bill Cooper and The Loft Expert! Group are standing by to help make your dreams come true. For more information visit The Loft Expert! Group at theloftexpertgroup.com.
February 20, 2017
Downtown News 21
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
— THE 16TH ANNUAL —
A RT S DI S T R I C T ( T I E )
Hauser Wirth & Schimmel
La Kretz Innovation Campus
2017 Honoring the Projects That Made Downtown Better in 2016 By Jon Regardie dozen years ago, it wasn’t hard to choose the Downtowners of Distinction winners. At that time, a limited number of impactful developments were opening in the Central City. Almost every major effort won a Distinction prize. These days, the situation is completely different. Downtown Los Angeles is seeing dozens of projects debut every year in a variety of categories, and the action is happening across the community. It’s no longer a simple feat to select the winners — there is an abundance of new housing, office space, retail, cultural destinations and civic amenities. Ultimately, that’s a good problem for the community to have. In the following pages, Los Angeles Downtown News highlights some of the most important developments of 2016 in our 16th annual Downtowners of Distinction awards. The prizes are presented by district, and when choosing winners we sought to identify projects that had the greatest positive effect on their individual community, and also benefitted Downtown as a whole (prizes were not given in every district). The 11 district winners were selected by the editorial staff of Downtown News, and the awards will be handed out Tuesday, Feb. 21. Next week, the Project of the Year, selected from among the individual winners by leaders from each district, will be revealed. Picking winners is never easy, and in several instances multiple projects deserved recognition. This year, once again, we wanted to highlight some of those who worked hard for their neighborhood. They are receiving Honorable Mention awards. Following, in alphabetical order by district, are this year’s Downtowners of Distinction winners.
F
ormer MOCA Chief Curator Paul Schimmel made a welcome return to Downtown last March with the arts complex Hauser Wirth & Schimmel. And what a return it is. Schimmel teamed up with some art-world powerhouses on the transformation of a 116,000-square-foot complex that began life a century ago as a grain mill. The collection of buildings at 901 E. Third St. has been turned into a mega-gallery with museum-caliber exhibitions, and admission is always free. The complex quickly emerged as a community destination for its art displays, lovely courtyard, free outdoor summer concerts and events, and its al fresco restaurant, Manuela. With so much residential activity in the community, it’s great to have an Arts District project that’s actually about art.
photo by Gary Leonard
photo by Gary Leonard
A
I
nside the La Kretz Innovation Campus, one finds a world of forward-thinking business development and technology. The $47 million project at 525 S. Hewitt St. is an incubator dedicated to developing cutting-edge clean-tech businesses, and nascent companies get expert guidance and mentorship, as well as access to top technology. The 60,000-square-foot campus, developed in partnership with the Department of Water & Power, is a fantastic use of a formerly dilapidated structure, with high ceilings, communal space and outdoor areas. It brings a new generation of workers to the Arts District, and in the long term could lead to more businesses settling in the community.
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February 20, 2017
CIVIC CENTER
C RO S S I N G B O U N DA R I E S
Blossom Plaza
United States Courthouse
Metro Bike Share
photo by Gary Leonard
C H I NATOW N
HONORABLE MENTION:
Unit 120
T
he gleaming $350 million U.S. Courthouse almost makes one forget that, for years, the site was a fenced-off dirt pit, a blight on the Civic Center. No longer. Designed by Skidmore Owings & Merrill, with construction overseen by the U.S. General Services Administration, the project is nicknamed the “floating cube” for the way the 10-story edifice seems to hover over First Street. The design of the building with 24 courtrooms, 32 judges’ chambers and 633,000 square feet of space is only part of what makes the courthouse special. The environmental elements also stand out: The serrated glass exterior reduces heat gain, while there is an indoor succulent and oak tree garden irrigated by water collected from the building’s air conditioning. Naturally, there are solar panels on the roof.
BUY PROPANE HERE! We Re-Fill Tanks
photo by Gary Leonard
lossom Plaza is more than a housing project — it is a longawaited victory for Chinatown. Originally broached a decade ago, the development was stymied by the recession, and it was not until 2013 that the city reached an agreement with developer Forest City to take on the project — former First District City Councilman Ed Reyes and his team worked to break ground before he left office. The $100 million development at 900 N. Broadway features 237 apartments, 20% of which are set aside as affordable housing. Architecture firm Johnson Fain’s smart design pays heed to the community without falling back on clichés; just glimpse the attractive exterior and the 17,000-squarefoot courtyard with 114 red lanterns. In addition to activating a formerly dead plot, the project connects the heart of Chinatown with the nearby Gold Line station.
photo by Gary Leonard
B
N
ormally, Distinction winners are chosen by district, but the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s $11 million Los Angeles Bike Share breaks all boundaries. Bike Share launched in July, with approximately 60 stations and 1,000 two-wheelers spread across Downtown. With kiosks at Union Station, the Historic Core, South Park, Chinatown, the Arts District and other neighborhoods, local workers and residents can grab a bike and pedal to their destination, locking the ride at a different kiosk. Metro even has an app so you can make sure the kiosk closest to you has a bike ready to go. With bike share, you can increasingly leave your car in the garage.
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February 20, 2017
Downtown News 23
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
HISTORIC CORE
Pop Obscure Records
OUE Skyspace
DTLAvets
S
photo by Gary Leonard
D
photo by Gary Leonard
FINANCIAL DISTRICT
photo by Gary Leonard
FA S H I O N D I S T R I C T
owntown Los Angeles may not have everything, but it does have a record store. For that we thank Dustin Lane and Sherry Lee, the married couple who opened Pop Obscure Records at 735 S. Los Angeles St. in July. The 25,000-square-foot shop, which includes a couple art display spaces, is a delightful addition to the neighborhood, and adds an independent spirit to a Downtown that is seeing an influx of chain stores. With more than 10,000 albums, local workers and residents can pick up that rock, punk, jazz or electronica record they’ve been lusting after. Even in a digital world, there’s something beautiful about the crackle and hiss of sounds on vinyl. Pop Obscure makes that available in Downtown.
ingapore-base OUE has done wonders with U.S. Bank Tower since buying the landmark in 2013. Empty floors have new tenants, while the property owner invested about $100 million in upgrades. Skyspace, on the top levels of the structure, is the highlight. It opened in June, and instantly became a destination for tourists and locals. The views from the observation decks on the 69th and 70th floors are stunning, and diners are heading to the new restaurant 71 Above. Of course, everyone talks about the Skyslide, which gives a thrilling ride on the exterior of the building. Other owners might have done the minimum with this tower. OUE has given Downtown something totally new and different.
HONORABLE MENTION:
HONORABLE MENTION:
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Max Lofts
Cal State L.A.’s Downtown Campus
Spring Restaurant; Spring Street Community Garden
I
t’s amazing to think that, before Dr. Eve Flores and Dr. Leia Castaneda opened DTLAvets in 2013, there was no veterinary office in Downtown. The two filled not so much a niche as a gaping canyon, and the need for their services continues to grow. DTLAvets now boasts four doctors, state-of-the-art facilities, a deep menu of services, and most importantly, a client roster of nearly 7,000 happy and healthy Downtown dogs, cats, birds, bunnies and other animals. They offer check-ups and vaccinations, and in patching up injured pets they also ease the hearts and minds of their human companions. Plus, there’s an adjacent pet food store. It’s hard to fathom how Downtown survived without DTLA vets.
Where expertise meets convenience THE KECK EFFECT: MORE TIME TO CATCH UP
Whether you work, live or play in Downtown LA, you have access to cutting-edge therapies and treatments through Keck Medicine of USC. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., our downtown location serves as a convenient resource for your primary and specialty health-care needs. That’s The Keck Effect, and it means you get the exceptional care you deserve, without the commute. Services include: • 3D Mammography • Cardio Stress Testing • Cosmetics • Dermatology • Endocrinology • Executive Health Examinations
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INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT
February 20, 2017
U N I ON S TAT I ON / E L P U E B LO ( T I E )
t’s hard to know what the Row DTLA complex will look like when it’s complete in a few years, but if Smorgasburg is any indication, then the project from developer Atlas Capital will wow Downtown. The outdoor Smorgasburg launched in June, and each Sunday thousands of people stroll the Alameda Produce Market, meet their friends and neighbors, and enjoy the goods from dozens of unique vendors. A spinoff of the Brooklyn Smorgasburg, the event at Seventh and Alameda streets has energized a place that was never previously a community destination. Now it’s a gathering point, and one made all the more tempting by the opportunity to enjoy ribs, oysters, cupcakes, tacos and more. Even better and rare in Downtown, there’s plenty of parking.
photo by Gary Leonard
I
Italian American Museum
F
ew people would be excited by the concept of a new bus maintenance hub. But Metro’s Division 13 Bus Operations and Maintenance Facility is unlike anything you’d expect. The $120 million project at Cesar Chavez Avenue and Vignes Street opened last February, and from the street you see a sleek design with modern elements and an illuminated artwork that references a 400-year-old sycamore tree. Division 13, which houses 525 employees, also stands out for its environmentally sensitive elements — it is LEED Gold certified and has nearly 1,200 solar panels. There is a green roof, a 275,000-gallon cistern, and a system that collects 30,000 gallons of runoff water a week from a nearby jail. Accept it: A bus facility really can be impressive.
photo by Gary Leonard
Metro Division 13 Bus Facility
photo by Gary Leonard
Smorgasburg L.A.
E
l Pueblo boasts Olvera Street, Mexican restaurants, the Chinese American Museum and the Siqueiros mural. Now add the Italian American Museum to that roster. The $4.5 million attraction at 644 N. Main St. debuted in August, the culmination of years of work. The 6,000-square-foot space occupies the second floor of the restored Italian Hall, a building that dates to 1908. The museum has numerous display areas with photos, documents, artifacts, items of clothing and more paying heed to the Italian-American community, which dates back to the 1800s. There is also a high-tech component that allows visitors to glimpse the nearly 4,000 pieces in the museum’s permanent collection. Now, there is yet another reason to visit El Pueblo, and a vital part of Los Angeles’ story is being told.
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SPRINKLERS, 6 the homeless encampments obstruct loading docks and sidewalks. The tents and refuse make life more difficult for businesses and their employees, he added. “It’s gone from bad to worse. I can’t take deliveries at Mumford because people are in the way. We talk to them, ask them to move — no dice. I have tenants threatening to leave. You can smell urine and feces everywhere,” Bhavnani said. “I don’t use sprinklers, but as a property owner, you have to make a decision based on the choices you’re afforded.” Lee said employees at SSG and in other buildings, particularly women, often feel unsafe and must walk in the street because of the encampments. He claims that he would need to hire security guards if not for the sprinklers. He also claims that the LAPD and city inspectors were notified of the sprinklers while working with homeless people nearby, but that nobody has objected. SSG Executive Director Herbert Hatanaka said that he was unaware of Lee’s use of sprinklers until Lee was approached by Downtown News, but was nonetheless sympathetic to the issues the property owner described. “When I heard about the sprinklers, I said, ‘Steve, you can’t do that,’” Hatanaka said at SSG’s main office at 905 E. Eighth St. “But people who work here, who have properties here, they need addressing, too. We are very aware of the difficulties homeless people face, and the outreach that’s needed to help them, but it is a mess on the streets, much worse than you might imagine.” If homeless people on the sidewalk packed
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM up their tents and kept the walkway clear between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. as a rarely enforced city mandate requires, he would not use the sprinklers, Lee said. The challenges near and along Third Street have been noticed by people from outside the neighborhood. Eon Lew, CEO of the brokerage District Realty Group, said that potential buyers of a restored warehouse at 405 Towne Ave. saw the sprinklers while touring the neighborhood and inquired about them. He said they also were concerned about the encampments. “[There is] a huge negative impact on the marketability of the property, not just because of their presence, but because of how they treated the property, as if it were their own trash bin or toilet,” Lew wrote in an email. “With that said, I believe the owner across the street made a logical and effective effort to protect his property line with the installation of the sprinklers. In the end, this is his property that he pays taxes on, which is money that should, ironically, be spent on assisting him with this sort of situation.” For Lee, using sprinklers to deter encampments is a small piece of a broader picture that inspires deep frustration and resentment. The tenants in his buildings include city and county entities, as well as independent nonprofits that work to help the homeless or other struggling people. Yet, he said, the problem only continues to worsen. Lee also said that for years he has been trying to build housing for the homeless, only to find a lack of assistance from the city and factors such as being unable to secure insurance for the projects. “I can build housing cheaper than the city,
CCA CONGRATULATES THIS YEAR’S HONOREES FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND COMMITMENT TO DOWNTOWN L.A. We also would like to applaud the Los Angeles Downtown News for being the best source of news in DTLA.
Downtown News 25
The sprinklers were used regularly last year, according to people in the neighborhood.
photo by Eddie Kim
without government money — it has too many strings attached. I’d rather use my own. So why is it impossible? I can’t get permits,” he said, his voice rising. In Lee’s mind, those who set up along his buildings and shake off his requests to move tents and personal belongings have left him no
choice. Encampments and blocked sidewalks are illegal too, he said. Lee would not say if he plans to turn the sprinklers off. On Friday, a man named Raymond who sleeps in the area said he had not seen the sprinkler run for about two weeks. eddie@downtownnews.com
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26 Downtown News
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$12,288 2015 Toyota Corolla L ............................. $15,488 4dr, Auto, Black. TU2459R/285940 2014 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner .......... $22,788 Auto, Access Cab, White. T171939-1/035162 2014 Jeep Patriot ................................... 47,469 Miles, Black. T171834-1/512009
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GIL CEDILLO, 5 with that backing, Bray-Ali will have a tough time toppling the incumbent. Cedillo boasts name recognition and a seasoned campaign machine; as of Jan. 21, he had a $70,000 advantage in cash to spend over Bray-Ali. In the 2013 primary and runoff, independent committees (which are not allowed to coordinate with a candidate’s official campaign) spent a ridiculous $843,000 backing Cedillo and attacking his opponent. If there’s even the hint of a threat, the Friends of Gil (FOG!) will likely write the checks again. Cedillo has already raised $356,000, though there’s a trend line that could put him at odds with some of his council colleagues. As I noted in a column last week, nearly 50 developers have given Cedillo the maximum individual amount of $700, and that includes 12 people who work for Atlas Capital, which is seeking to build a Chinatown project with 770 apartments. Yet on Jan. 10, five members of the council proposed banning donations from real estate developers with pending projects. Cedillo and I spin into a discussion that includes phrases like “housing crisis,” “spot zoning” and “perception.” The issue is whether developer donors get favors or an eased approval process. The talk streams into Measure S, the March ballot initiative that could put a two-year moratorium on projects that need zoning changes or amendments. Cedillo strongly opposes Measure S, and maintains that he’ll meet with all stakeholders. “I’m not influenced by those donations. I don’t look at them. I don’t pay much attention to them,” Cedillo says. To be clear, there is nothing illegal about accepting developer money, and these kinds of donations have been common in cities big and small since Attila the Hun invented the practice in the year 437 (not really true). You’ll probably never get real estate cash out of L.A. politics. Cedillo calls me a few days later. He wants to add some context, and says that while he receives a lot of developer money, he also gets donations from plenty of community stakeholders and other people. Campaign filing documents show that he’s correct. “My coalition is very diverse and robust,” he says. Many Bills Cedillo grew up in Boyle Heights and graduated from UCLA. He ran the powerful union SEIU Local 721 from 1990-’96. He held various state Senate and Assembly posts from 1998-2012. Along with figures including Herb Wesson, he’s part of the flood of Sacramento lawmakers who streamed south to L.A. City Hall when a cadre of local elected officials were termed out. He seems eager to get beyond the assertion that he’s a singlenote politician known for aiding immigrants (the snark crowd has long called him “one-bill Gil”). He describes having 100 bills signed by four governors and details a dizzying list of legislation, everything from water bills to a brownfields cleanup act to the Downtown Rebound, a state effort meant to facilitate growth in Downtown Los Angeles. Still, he remains best known for his work on immigrant affairs, and he has been ahead of the curve on the matter. He wrote legislation allowing undocumented individuals to get driver’s licenses and penned the California DREAM act, which paved the way for undocumented people to receive financial aid for college. He chairs the City Council’s new Immigrant Affairs Committee. One of his staffers jokes that he’s long been helping people who will never donate to or be able to vote for him. The subject resonates in the time of Trump, and it’s easy to envision Cedillo’s accomplishments on slick mailers that win over First District voters. This kind of stuff is gold for campaign managers. Still, Cedillo’s view on the subject is broader and timely. “We’re at a very precarious moment in our nation. Steve Bannon, Senator Sessions — or now Attorney General Sessions, Kris Kobach, just for the area of immigration, are extremely dangerous people,” he says. “We need to look at their conduct and their actions every single day because they’re very dangerous men who want to take this country back in a direction that I believe maybe never existed.” It’s a fight that may or may not envelop Los Angeles. What is assured, however, is that as long as Cedillo holds his council seat, he’ll have to handle pothole politics and other local matters. There will be supporters. There will be critics. It’s all part of the game. And some afternoons, he’ll have a bowl of fruit waiting for him. regardie@downtownnews.com
February 20, 2017
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a half-century ago helped create a community and an umbrella term that remains strong today, said Oliver Wang, associate professor of sociology at California State University Long Beach. “The movement had never By Eddie Kim banded under a common bann 1968, amid the twilight of ner, and that was the biggest the Civil Rights Movement, legacy of a political act. The fracseveral disparate student tures didn’t hurt the movement groups in San Francisco began because it wasn’t breaking up rallying together. They had cona group that intuitively existed sumed enough of what they before then,” Wang said. “We call viewed as a Eurocentric curricourselves ‘Asian American’ now, ulum helmed largely by white but it was just puzzle pieces duracademics. It was time to force ing the ’70s and ’80s.” change in higher education. Roots is a history lesson, but Black, Chinese, Filipino and also a blueprint for young Asian other student organizations, Americans faced with turbulent from U.C. Berkeley and San Franpolitical times, Steve Wong said. cisco State University in particuA companion zine published by lar, began calling for the formathe museum offers stories from tion of ethnic studies programs older activists and ideas for fuand an increase in minority proture action. fessors and students. A few ear“It was purely coincidence that ly sit-ins and protests gave mowe opened right before Donmentum to the activists, who beald Trump’s inauguration, but gan calling themselves the Third we got lucky. It makes the show World Liberation Front. ConseActivists in Little Tokyo protest against neighborhood redevelopment and the displacement of residents. It is one of the items on display in the new Chinese more relevant not just for Asian quent strikes at Berkeley and American Museum exhibit Roots: Asian American Movements in Los Angeles, 1968-80s. Americans but for everyone,” he SFSU stretched on for months, added. “What can we learn from ultimately becoming the longest this fight?” protest in the history of United Over two decades, inspired States academic institutions. Asian Americans leveraged the The eyes of the nation fell on New Exhibit at Chinese American Museum Sheds Light on L.A.’s Asian Activists ethos of the Civil Rights Movethese students, and their acment to great success, Steve tions planted the seed for a push Wong observed. That legacy rings loud as mass There are snippets from the Asian American films and back home. A 1971 poster by the artist Leto define and empower Asian identity in the protests and grassroots activism surface in L.A. of production company Visual Communications, U.S. This is explored in a new exhibit at the Chiland Wong, inspired by the language and rhetonce more. while another segment dives into communist nese American Museum, Roots: Asian American oric of the Black Panthers, shows a group of radicalism within Asian American groups. Movements in Los Angeles 1968-80s. Chinese people gathered around the bodies Roots: Asian American Movements in Los Anof pigs in police uniforms. A bald man with a geles 1968-80s runs through June 11 at Chinese “Those Third World strikes were the trigger In a sense, Roots is a guide to how the Asian butcher’s cleaver, dripping with blood, smirks. American Museum, 425 N. Los Angeles St., (213) American movement became something that kicked off the campaign to create ethnic 485-8567 or camla.org. greater than the sum of its parts. studies, which never existed. And from that “YEAR OF THE PEOPLE,” the large font belCreating the Umbrella Term came these young people that advocated for lows. “OFF THE PIGS.” eddie@downtownnews.com representation and change for Asian groups,” Los Angeles communities such as Kore As the Asian American movements expandsaid Steve Wong, head curator at CAM. “It atown, Little Tokyo and Chinatown had their ed, Los Angeles solidified itself as the intellecwasn’t one movement, but intersecting ones own efforts, with organizers seeking to imtual heart. UCLA was particularly important within various communities.” prove the conditions for residents. Yvonne as the birthplace of the Amerasia Journal, the Wong Nishio, today known as a pioneer for ESL first scholarly journal on Asian American com Roots debuted last month at the museum education, created the first daycare center in munities and issues, and the activist newspanear El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical MonuChinatown after recognizing that immigrant per Gidra, which would go on to be distributed ment. It continues through June 11. Admission families often had two working parents, Steve across the country. is free. Wong noted. Roots also touches on how having so many The exhibit stems from a New York City-fodifferent players sometimes led to fractures becused show by curator Ryan Wong (no relation Collaboration extended beyond the lines of tween groups. Far-left elements disagreed on to Steve) called Serve the People, which Steve ethnicity. One section of Roots highlights Abthe functions and approaches of leaders like Wong saw in New York during its 2013-14 run. gayani Village, a subsidized housing complex Over the past six months the two worked tofor retired Filipino farmworkers in the tiny town Mao or Lenin. Other times the divides ran along class lines, with working-class activists not seegether, with Steve Wong collecting and sorting of Delano that was built with the help of Japaing eye-to-eye with college-educated, middlethrough items belonging to former activists in nese American high school students. class organizers. Los Angeles. Ryan Wong oversaw the exhibit’s “You see the formation of Pan-Asian convision and chose the pieces for display, creating sciousness here. But I also found out that it was Homophobia and patriarchal attitudes toward a narrative arc for Roots. a way to keep Japanese American kids off the women and their roles in society were still comstreets,” Steve Wong said. “Around this time in mon within Asian communities and the male-driv Anti-war and anti-imperialist sentiment Little Tokyo there were 30 drug overdoses in a en activist groups, too. This prompted the formaagainst U.S. action in Vietnam and other Southshort period. The movement was a way to keep tion of Asian women and LGBT organizations with east Asian nations was an impetus for the activyoung minds occupied.” a critical eye toward the movement itself. ism, but so were the needs of local communities. One section of the exhibit focuses on artwork Others chased loftier ideological goals, tar Despite the differences in background and A 1971 artwork by Leland Wong depicts violent resistance and communications, including activist music. geting agents of oppression around the world mission, the work of the Asian American groups against law enforcement.
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The Birth of a Movement
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February 20, 2017
By Jeff Favre t’s unlikely that any homegrown show in Los Angeles theater history holds more significance, engenders more ardent fans, and carries more weight of expectation than Luis Valdez’s Zoot Suit. Its status as a cultural groundbreaker was immediate upon its premiere at Downtown’s Mark Taper Forum in 1978. The late Center Theatre Group head Gordon Davidson commissioned the work from Valdez, who with his Teatro El Campesino had been staging short skits and plays for farmworkers, sometimes on the flatbeds of trucks that hauled produce they had picked. The show was a hit, and moved to Hollywood’s Aquarius Theatre, where it enjoyed a year-long run. It then had a brief, inauspicious turn on Broadway and became a 1982 film. The New York and movie failures aside, Zoot Suit will forever live as the first significant Chicano play in the United States. Through an eclectic mix of storytelling styles it details a view of Mexican American culture in World War II-era Los Angeles, and the deep-rooted racism that led to the 1943 “Zoot Suit Riots.” That doesn’t mean Zoot Suit, which has returned to the Taper 40 years later for an extended stay through March 26, should be judged by its significance. Hardly revolutionary as a
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work of art, this new incarnation remains a frequently engaging agitprop play with infectious swing and jazz music. In a vacuum, Valdez’s period piece, which he again directs, has aged well. The plot is bare bones, revealing a corrupt judicial system that wrongly convicted many young men of murder. They were later released on appeal. The self-conscious structure and sardonic wit fit nicely in the 21st century, and its condemnation of racial intolerance toward those of Mexican descent earned hearty applause on opening night. It is almost impossible to watch the show without thinking of recent comments and actions by President Donald Trump. Valdez’s dialogue is simple but direct, and succeeds through honesty and healthy doses of humor. Also, unlike the premiere that relied on several novice actors, the cast this time is loaded with heavy hitters, in particular Oscarnominated Demian Bichir, who commands the stage as the soul of Zoot Suit, El Pachuco. The term pachuco refers to Chicanos who wore the highly stylized titular outfit, and El Pachuco serves as the narrator who leads the audience on a journey of fact mixed with fantasy. He also is the ego of Henry Reyna (an intense and engaging Matias Ponce), a real-life character whose involvement with the city’s 38th Street Gang and an unsolved murder led him
photo by Craig Schwartz
Demian Bichir (left) is El Pachuco and Matias Ponce plays Henry Reyna in the revival of Zoot Suit. It is at the Mark Taper Forum through March 26.
and 21 other men to be tried for the crime. Bichir, tackling the larger-than-life role that made a star out of Edward James Olmos, is mesmerizing from the moment he literally cuts through a curtain filled with headlines about the “Sleepy Lagoon” murder, as the crime became known. His statuesque poses, palpable bravado and sharply delivered retorts to Henry hold the two-and-a-half-hour show together, and his absence in some scenes is missed. Another crucial element is the period mu-
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Luis Valdez’s Groundbreaking Work Returns to the Stage Where It Debuted Four Decades Ago
sic, which includes original works by Chicano bandleader Lalo Guerrero and Daniel Valdez (Luis’ brother) as well as classics from the Glenn Miller Orchestra and Duke Ellington. The songs and lively swing dances choreographed by Maria Torres keep the action from becoming overly sluggish, and particularly help amid some slower moments in the jail scenes of the second act. Along with the music, Zoot Suit is visually arresting. Ann Closs-Farley’s costumes enlist an array of pastels and rich colors, and are enhanced by Pablo Santiago’s vibrant lighting. The revival nods to its past in several ways, most notably by casting Daniel Valdez and Rose Portillo, who originated the roles of Henry and his love interest Della, as Henry’s parents. It adds depth to watch these actors age gracefully into a wiser and more sensible generation. Zoot Suit is based on historical events, so the fate of Henry and his gang are not in doubt. Instead, the show remains compelling by how Valdez handles an untidy, unfinished history, employing a mix of cynicism and optimism. It likely will speak to today’s audiences with the same force that it did 40 years ago. Luis Valdez’s play with music is often is credited with influencing young Latino playwrights and for opening doors to mainstream theaters for their works. It’s an impressive if unintended resume, and Valdez doesn’t shy away from his desire to speak first and foremost to a Chicano audience. Still, Zoot Suit stands on its own as a work that continues to entertain people of various backgrounds, even more so if you happen to live in Los Angeles. Zoot Suit runs through March 26 at the Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org.
‘Zoot Suit’ Connects The Past and the Present
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CALENDAR LISTINGS
Ace Hotel 929 S. Broadway, (213) 623-3233 or acehotel.com. Feb. 25: American Football are back after a hiatus. Not the sport, but the ill-named indie band. Au Lac/Café Fedora 710 W. First St., (213) 617-2533 or aulac.com. Feb. 25: Cathy Segal-Garcia. Belasco 1050 S. Hill St., (213) 746-5670 or belascous.com. Feb. 20: You can’t spell Swedish heavy metal band Amaranthe’s name without “ant.” Feb. 24: Atmozfears & Code Black are perfect for the old man rivers of this world who “just keep rollin’ along.” Continued on next page
photo courtesy of the estate, Hauser & Wirth and David Zwirner
Rare it is that a magazine goes from the page to the stage, but California Sunday Magazine isn’t your pappy’s Newsweek. Instead it’s a robust collection of voices from the Golden State that brims with exactly the sort of unpredictable perspectives that lend themselves well to one-off performances in large theaters. In keeping with their bold brand, the publication’s Pop-Up Magazine live show takes over the Theatre at Ace Hotel on Friday, Feb. 24, for a unique evening of performances by writers, documentary filmmakers, radio producers and more. Tickets were available at press time. At 929 S. Broadway, (213) 6233233 or acehotel.com.
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Seventy-five years ago, the United States looked mighty different — or did it? In February 1942, Los Angeles and the rest of the country dealt with Civilian Exclusion Orders marked “Instructions to All Persons of Japanese Ancestry.” That time is revisited in the just-opened Japanese American National Museum exhibit Instructions to All Persons, a retrospective examining Japanese internment as both a human phenomenon and a bureaucratic process. The show includes a variety of documents, videos, photos and an original copy of Executive Order 9066. If you recognize a tie between that era and a minority group in 2017, you’re not alone. The show runs through May 21. At 100 N. Central Ave., (213) 625-0414 or janm.org.
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photo by Jon Snyder
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4 photo by Gary Leonard
ROCK, POP & JAZZ
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Hometown art hero Jason Rhoades died too young, passing away in 2006 at the age of 41. Now, the Arts District’s Hauser Wirth & Schimmel gallery hosts the first Los Angeles tribute to the artist. Jason Rhoades Installations 1994-2006 includes six enveloping works versed in a hyper-stylized, mixed media “maximalism.” The show spreads across a whopping 28,000 square feet, and there will be ample opportunities to take in gallery programs that add context. If you’re unfamiliar with Rhoades, consider this line from the gallery: “From religion, commerce, sex, and racial and gender stereotypes, to [the] role of the artist himself, no subject was off-limits and taboo was embraced.” Installations continues through May 21. At 901 E. Third St., (213) 943-1620 or hauserwirthschimmel.com.
Japanese American National Museum, gift of Dr. Toshio Yatsushiro and Lily Koyama.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Boom California Winter Reading Last Bookstore, 453 S. Spring St., (213) 488-0599 or lastbookstorela.com. 7:30 p.m.: The literary journal hosts a standout lineup of Los Angeles writers including D.J. Waldie, David Ulin, Lynell George, Alex Espinoza, Susan Straight, Dana Gioia and more. Daphne Merkin and Jill Soloway at Aloud Central Library, Mark Taper Auditorium, 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org. 7:15 p.m.: Merkin is an expert essayist on the subject of clinical depression. Soloway made a little TV show called “Transparent.” Together, you can expect a slightly bleak uplift. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Fifth Annual L.A. Art Book Fair Geffen Contemporary, 152 N. Central Ave., (213) 626-6222 or moca.org. Feb. 23-26: In a warren of appealing and evocative art books, zines, prints and other esoterica, the greatest challenge is often leaving the Geffen Contemporary with a single dollar to your name. Girls At Library: L.A. Book Swap 929 S. Broadway, (213) 623-3233 or acehotel.com. 6 p.m.: It’s ladies night, but forego the onus to drink heavily and listen to awful early 2000s pop. Tonight’s modus operandi is the profusion of the written word. Valeria Luiselli and Guadalupe Nettel at Aloud Central Library, Mark Taper Auditorium, 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org. 7:15 p.m.: These two authors represent the height of contemporary Mexican literary fiction. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Pop-Up Magazine 929 S. Broadway, (213) 623-3233 or acehotel.com. 7:30 p.m.: California Sunday Magazine takes its show on the road with a live program of aurally reported stories from far and wide in this fine state. Roski Talk: Ellen Gallagher and Adrienne Edwards The Broad, 221 S. Grand Ave., (213) 232-6200 or thebroad.org. 7 p.m.: The USC Roski School or Art and Design co-hosts a talk between Performa Curator Adrienne Edwards and artist Ellen Gallagher. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Music Center Plaza Renovation Community Discussion Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 9720777 or musiccenter.org. 10 a.m.: Feeling frustrated? Want to contribute your two cents? Then show up and offer your brilliant ideas on what the Music Center plaza should look like and what amenities it should hold as a $30 million upgrade approaches. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26 An Awards Show Show and Party 929 S. Broadway, (213) 623-3233 or acehotel.com. 3:30 p.m.: Here’s a hot tip for everyone attending this free Oscar’s Viewing Party: Ditch the suspense. The best pic Oscar always goes to the film that best perpetuates the illusion that Hollywood is a viable venue for social change.
photo by Peter Harris, Boston
EVENTS
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Art is the order of the day in the Old Bank District, where the much-hyped Main Museum is gaining momentum. The facility won’t take full flight for a few years, so for now you’ll have to content yourself with little bites of art and culture at the Beta Main exhibit space on Fourth Street. From 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Wednesday-Sunday, art gazers can pop in to peruse Edgar Arceneaux’s Library of Black Lies. The structure contains an alternative narrative of African-American history, culture and heritage that exists simultaneously outside and within the mainstream. It runs through March 26. At 114 W. Fourth St. or themainmuseum.org.
It may be hard to believe, but there was a time when “punk” had yet to enter the lexicon. The Grammy Museum has gone way back, and this is the final full week to take in Hey! Ho! Let’s Go: Ramones and the Birth of Punk. With rare photos, expert commentary, personal effects, a bevy of articles and even an opportunity to remix a punk anthem, the exhibit frames the Queens band in a larger artistic revolution against conformity and toward noisy pluralism. If that’s not enticing enough, then just glimpse the high school report cards of Johnny and Joey Ramone. The Grammy Museum is open seven days a week. Hey! Ho! runs through Feb. 28. At 800 W. OIympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org.
Send information and possible Don’t Miss List submissions to calendar@downtownnews.com.
30 Downtown News Blue Whale 123 Astronaut E. S. Onizuka St., (213) 620-0908 or bluewhalemusic.com. Feb. 20: VSPT and Kirk Kirsh & Hersh. We love rhymes! Feb. 21: Fabiano Do Nascimento. Feb. 22: Huntertones. Feb. 23: Gillian Margot Group. Feb. 24: Ben Allison Think Free. Feb. 25-26: Tigran Hamasyan. Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. Feb. 20: The Rural Alberta Advantage is either a folk rock band or an extended infomercial for vinegar colonics. Feb. 21: When the Old Mystics simply won’t do, you’ll need the New Mystics. Feb. 22: Hazel English sounds like Dolores from the Cranberries backed by Mark McGuire. Feb. 23: Those expecting a bespectacled barrage of hyperinspirational street art should know that tonight’s artist, Mobley, is not Morley. Feb. 24: In a reverse SXSW scenario, Austin’s famed Octopus Project journeys to Los Angeles. Feb. 25: Ample bit-crushed, chillwave-esque electronica with Gibbz. Feb. 26: After a quick review of the timeline and a perusal of online genealogy sites, we’ve come to the conclusion that Mozart’s Sister is not an accurate performer name. Caña 714 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 745-7090 or 213dthospitality.com. Feb. 21: Sitara Son. Feb. 22: John Villalobos. Feb. 23: Joey De Leon.
CROSSWORD
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS Escondite 410 Boyd St., (213) 626-1800 or theescondite.com. Feb. 20: The Jazzaholics would probably prefer that we not air their dirty laundry in print, but that’s the nature of jazz and the fourth estate! Feb. 21: Phil & Lu are not alone in feeling mighty uncomfortable about the name of the Fashion District’s new boutique hotel, Tuck. Feb. 22: King Corduroy has a very limited kingdom that extends only as far as earshot. Feb. 23: From beyond that happy fiefdom called Frogtown comes Wicklow Atwater and The Fallen Flame. Feb. 24: Boom Boom Boom does Charlie Chan the honor of opening. Feb. 26: Ben Bostick Honky Tonk goes off without a hitch. Exchange LA 618 S. Spring St., (213) 627-8070 or exchangela.com. Feb. 24: Gareth Emery. Feb. 25: Alan Walker. Grammy Museum 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Feb. 22: Gavin Rossdale and the boys in Bush are back. Uh, hooray? Feb. 23: Six-string champion Eric Johnson plays a couple ditties for the Great Guitars program. Ham & Eggs Tavern 433 W. Eighth St., (213) 891-6939 or hamandeggstavern.com. Feb. 23: Christina Larocca, Carl Banks and Ryan Hurtgen. Feb. 24: Soaked, The Memories, Wyatt Blair and Goldbloom. Las Perlas 107 E. Sixth St., (213) 988-8355 or 213dthospitality.com. Feb. 20: Tres Souls.
Feb. 21: Los Ordianos. Feb. 22: La Victoria. Feb. 23: Los Gringos Con Clave. Redwood Bar and Grill 316 W. Second St., (213) 652-4444 or theredwoodbar.com. Feb. 20: Songwriters in The Round. Feb. 21: Globelamp and The May Company. Feb. 22: Hollywood Blues Destroyers. Feb. 25: Kepi Ghoulie and The Paper Hearts. Feb. 26: Caskitt and Western Settings. Resident 428 S. Hewitt St. or (323) 316-5311 or residentdtla.com. Feb. 23: Split Single and Imaad Wasif. Feb. 24: Reminist Friday featuring Reva Devito, Abby Diamond and more. Feb. 25: Vetiver with Kacy & Clanton. Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St., (213) 614-0737 or sevengrand.la. Feb. 20: As far as we know, Michael Starr is no relation to the recently deceased titan of California history, Dr. Kevin Starr. Feb. 21: The Makers are dedicating all of the proceeds from today’s show to the victims of the Bowling Green Massacre. Feb. 22: Rosa Brooks sings like a bird. Feb. 23: Perhaps The Racket Squad have mistaken Seven Grand for the Los Angeles Athletic Club. Feb. 25: Connie Han, a profusion of vowels and n’s. Feb. 26: Sweet vintage jazz from the California Feet Warmers. The Novo 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or thenovodtla.com. Feb. 20: The B1A4 Tour has a name like a phenotype and a bill that features Jinyoung, CNU, Sandeul, Baro and others. Feb. 23-24: Hippie Sabotage is like The Weeknd meets The Subrbs.
February 20, 2017
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computer-generated backgrounds — to help tell the story of a woman’s abduction and her relationship with her kidnapper, who happens to be an English teacher. The show is based on a 1999 novel by French author Régis Jauffret. Historia del Amor is performed in Spanish with English subtitles. At 631 W. Second St. or redcat.org.
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2016
PIAT IGOR SK Y CELL O FEST IVAL
MAY 13-17
AT VARIOUS
LOCATIO Gregor Piatigorsky NS was one of time, playing the finest cellists with of all inspired composerswicked technique such as Stravinskyand emotion that to collaborate and Prokofiev with him time Russian-born and time again. musician escaped The occupation France during and made the his way to taught cello America, where Nazi at various schools before The school he now settling in at USC. Festival, which honors him with the annual Piatigorsky this year features in various 26 international performance s at USC and cellists more than 100 playing an ensemble at Walt addition to of the performance Disney Concert Hall. In classes and s, the festival lectures that features master to experience are open to the public. some Prepare At piatigorskyfes of the best cello work in the world. tival.usc.edu.
THE
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
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M A R C H 3 1 - A P R I L 3 AT R E D C AT
TeatroCinema: Historia del Amor REDCAT specializes in avant-garde work from international companies that most Angelenos don’t know. The Chilean ensemble TeatroCinema fits that bill perfectly. On March 31-April 3, the troupe unleashes Historia del Amor, which is far more grim than the title implies. The four performances incorporate digital imagery — think 2D and 3D animation and
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THE MAKIN REVOLUTION IN
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M AY 2 6 AT T HE MA YA N T H E AT R E
Hotel
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THE BUZZ COCKS
Theatre at Ace
9
the cricket OK, so that got of Declan MacManus? known as Elvis Costello, who What do you think however, is better now. The Grammy winning 40 years response. Mr. MacManus, on out music for nearly at the Theatre at Ace Hotel stand has been churning icon’s of the London list has a two-night multi-instrumenta a delicious reminder Expect some new promises to be to popular culture. April 2-3, and it many contributions the hits, from “Alison” to “Accidents as all ahead, material as well Detectives.” Go “Watching the Will Happen” to glasses. wear the black-framedor At 929 S. Broadway photo by Robert Millard ngeles/theatre. phot acehotel.com/losa Giacomo Puccini’s legendary Madame Butterfly o by Jam is, like many great works, about what happens es O’Ma when two disparate worlds collide. In this case, ra it’s the story of a U.S. Naval officer, Pinkerton, and a geisha who fall in love — but what the young and beautiful Butterfly (AKA Cio-Cio-San) doesn’t realize is that Pinkerton aims to leave her once MICROSOFT THEATER THE AT 7 you do But MAY he finds an American wife. The opera follows tickled by Elmo. Grover. You’re Butterfly as she waits with their son for the officer You’re down with bring your You will after you to return, but when he finally does, it’s not the know Chamki? a New Friend, Street Live: Make happy reunion she expects. Soprano Ana María kids to Sesame for Staples Center Martinez, widely lauded for her previous turns as which lands at on May 7. Butterfly, stars in a production that is new to L.A. three performances Sesame with Opera. There are six performances from March The show is filled singing and 12-April 3 in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Street characters concerns plot the At 135 N. Grand Ave. or laopera.org. dancing, and when Chamki, what happens from India, comes Grover’s friend plans kayaking to visit. While Grover Chamki wants and hot yoga (seriously), cookies with Slide” and have to do “The Elmo doesn’t rights reserved. Then again, who Street Workshop. All Cookie Monster. TM/copyright Sesame with Cookie Monster? want to have cookies Court, or axs.com and At 777 Chick Hearn m. sesamestreetlive.co
N SESAME STREE ART OF MOTIO PICTURE DESIGN COSTUME 30 at the a crucial Costumes play of Design & Merchandising Fashion Institute museum showcases and tone. The for and its on-campus recognizes that, 2015. It’s a chance film outfits from Best some of the top recently crowned duds from the are Fury Road. There Angelenos to see winner Mad Max: the lateCostumes Oscar on display, from a total of 23 films fairytale costumes from Compton to the of Straight Outta outfits from The 1980s fashions There are also and suits of Trumbo gown seen in Cinderella. Peak, the 1950s Hateful Eight, Crimson VII: The Force Awakens. Star Wars Episode even gear from Ave. or fidmmuseum.org. At 919 S. Grand
Downtown News
7 Downtow
It’s been four decades since SIGHTS AND of unlikely a gaggle punks put SOUNDS together their OF SPRING first show at the Bolton Institute of Technology in Manchester, Buzzcocks England. The have since gained enduring fame as substantial APRIL 15-17 anchors of first-wave punk. Without AT THE DOR CHANDL ER destructive the selfshowmanshi PAVILIO NOTHY Joining the p Sex Pistols Alvin Ailey or the lingering of the American Dance highlight for of narcissus most people. Theatre is a found in the curse for Desmond That was just career camp, the Clash Richardson SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF SPRING Downtown News 11 the start, however, Buzzcocks the pair formed and Dwight came to clap and pick their Rhoden. In Complexions way 1994, for 22 years laments strapped through lovers’ they have traveled Contemporary Ballet, audiences with a catchy, and One of Downtown’s most the world, bare-bones with thrilling appeal that Gallery unpredictable a multicultural and sometimes anticipated openings of any has quiteWirth Schimmel & aged well. On May take on contemporar Complexions 26, energetic kind occurs March 13, when 13 at Hauser singer/songw y dance. lands at the Opening March riter Pete Shelley Dorothy Pavilion for former MOCA Chief Curator and the rest three performance Chandler of of mixed repertory Paul Schimmel joins Iwan and s still-sound-gr the crew will deliver on April eat 15-17. One Manuela Wirth to open the gallery complex Hauser Wirth “Orgasm Addict” anthems such as of the company’s and “Ever & Schimmel. The ambitious debut show, Revolution in the current works Love?” The is “And So It paunchy, baldingFallen in Making: Abstract Sculpture by Women: 1947-2016,, features Is,” a large-scale crowd will guys in the pogo with piece danced about 100 works from 34 artists, among them Louise throwback en point to At 1038 S. Hill glee. the music of St. or clubmayan.co Bourgeois, Lee Bontecou (shown here in her studio), Bach. But expect the m. unexpected: Eva Hesse and Kaari Upson. It’s a massive show in the Complexions also has “Strum,” repurposed Globe Mills Complex, a collection of late in perform to… which 14 dancers 19th and early 20th century warehouses. Think of it as (wait for it)… At 135 N. Grand Metallica! a chance to see art you’ve probably never glimpsed in musiccenter.o Ave. or a gallery that will be a key part of the Arts District for rg. decades to come. The show runs through Sept. 4. At 901 E. Third St. or hauserwirthschimmel.com.
photo by Ian Rook
photo by Alex J. Berliner
Elvis Costello
SOUNDS OF SPRING
April 2-3 at the
Through April a movie’s atmosphere FIDM Museum role in setting
M A R C H 1 2 - A P R I L 3 AT T H E D O R O T H Y C H A N D L E R PAV I L I O N
SIGHTS AND March 7, 2016
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MUNICIPAL AND SPECIAL ELECTIONS scheduled to be held on MARCH 7, 2017. The Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s facility and polling places shall be open between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on MARCH 7, 2017. Persons requiring multilingual assistance in Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog/Filipino, Thai or Vietnamese regarding information in the notice may call (800) 481-8683. POLLING PLACES 9000464B EVANS COMMUNITY ADULT SCHOOL 717 N FIGUEROA ST LOS ANGELES 90012 9001686A ALPINE RECREATION CENTER 817 YALE ST LOS ANGELES 90012 9002547A ANGELUS PLAZA 255 S HILL ST LOS ANGELES
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california.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. The name and address of the court is: Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles Stanley Mosk Courthouse 111 North Hill Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 Case Number: BC633585 Dated: September 09, 2016 Prepared by: Sherri R. Carter, Clerk and Judi Lara, Deputy The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney(s), or plaintiff without an attorney, is: Neal S. Salisian, Yujin Chun, and Jay M. Lichter 550 South Hope Street Suite 750 Los Angeles, CA 90071 (213) 622-9100 Pub. 01/30, 02/06, 02/13, and 02/20/2017.
NO. BC633585 PLAINTIFF: NATIONAL FUNDING, INC. VS DEFENDANT: QUARTERSHARE INTERNATIONAL LLC, ET AL. NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a few waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services website (www.lawhelp-
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