On the Los Angeles Urbanism Boom

"Los Angeles is commonly portrayed as a sprawling metropolis, suffering in a state of constant automobile gridlock. The region undoubtedly has major problems – ranging from poverty and housing affordability to air quality and water availability – that should not be understated. However, after living in L.A. for the past two years to study planning at UCLA, I’ve also been impressed with the planning and development innovation coming from the region. In many ways the L.A. region views its future as an urban one, and is playing rapid catch-up by expanding its rail transit system and creating walkable neighborhoods. It’s one of the most exciting places to be an urbanist today. Successful urbanism in Los Angeles provides lessons for other growing communities seeking to transition away from an auto-centric status quo."

Gabbe goes on to list eight innovations as an "illustrative, not an exhaustive, list of urbanism in Los Angeles...Countless non-profits, public agencies, and private developers are actively turning the L.A. region’s serious challenges into opportunities to create a more sustainable, just future. The L.A. case shows that the road to change can be difficult, but progress is possible."