A New Park for South Park?

         Sometime in early 2024 we heard of a movement among the powers that be to purchase the parking lot currently owned by AEG at the corner of 11th and Grand Avenue to turn it into a much-needed park for the neighborhood.  Most of our readers will recognize the parcel as the site of the last two A Taste of South Park neighborhood gatherings. Though somewhat small for a full-blown park, the lot has the potential of becoming a very nice little multiuse green space in a highly accessible area.

         AEG had planned an 11-story hotel for the site and had received approvals for its construction from the City of LA.  Evidently, AEG decided not to proceed with the construction project and quietly indicated that they would consider a sale of the property.

         When the door opened, with the blessings of Councilman Kevin de Léon, support from the South Park BID, and interest from the South Park Neighborhood Association, The City of Los Angeles began negotiations with AEG for the purchase of the property.  Discussions have proceeded over the past year. 

         Will these efforts result in a much-needed new park for South Park?  On the positive side, we evidently have a willing seller in AEG.  The city is also aware of the benefits offered by the park idea and while as usual, money is tight in the City budget for next year, I have been told there exists a source of funds for the project. In addition, there is a ground swell for improvements to this LA Live-proximate community with the  FISA and Olympic Productions rapidly approaching. As residents of South Park, we must be vigilant and work to move this project forward.  

By John Nilsson