A blighted abandoned rail corridor through South Los Angeles received funding to plan a rail to trail conversion. Can residents compel officials to complete the sorely needed open space facility?
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority recently "approved $2.8 million to plan a 'rail-to-river' path along Slauson Avenue from the Los Angeles River to the Crenshaw Metro line — one of the most blighted parts of the city." The project, reports Andrea Gardner, would "transform eight miles of abandoned roadway into a bike and pedestrian path" at an estimated cost of $35 million.
The article (which also includes an audio version from its radio broadcast) also focuses on the neighborhood and residents who would benefit by the conversion. "Residents told the board the project was needed in a community known for high obesity and a low rate of car ownership. Many noted that South Los Angeles is also 'park poor,' with less than 2 acres of park space for every 1,000 residents. By comparion [sic], West Los Angeles has more than 50 acres of park space for every 1,000 residents."
FULL STORY: South Los Angeles residents push to transform railway to 8-mile greenbelt

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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