Will Move to Encourage Density Stifle Downtown L.A. Redevelopment?

Is Los Angeles missing out on a golden opportunity to build a dense downtown? That's the motivation behind a motion filed by 14th District City Councilman José Huizar's last month "that would incentivize high-rise building and also put a moratorium on low-rise construction in key areas," reports Eddie Kim. Among the incentives proposed are expedited reviews and reduced parking requirements. 

“If we’re looking at Downtown in terms of its longevity as an economic engine, it’s clear we need to build bigger hotels and residential projects,” said Huizar spokesman Rock Coca. “The problem we’re having right now is that if low-rises go up, they’re not getting maximum efficiency out of the space. And then they’re around for decades.”

"Most experts agree that upping density in Downtown, especially in light of growing public transportation and infrastructure, is the smartest plan for the long term," adds Kim. "However, some fear that outlawing certain types of construction, even temporarily, could turn off developers entirely instead of inspiring them."