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CONTACT: Rick Coca (213) 200-9974 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASErick.coca@lacity.org

Councilmember Huizar Addresses Street Closures in Downtown

With increased amounts of special events in Downtown, Councilmember Huizar announces DTLA Street Closure Committee, which will oversee and issue

recommendations on Downtown special events permits  (LOS ANGELES) March 28, 2014 – Special events, particularly those that promote pedestrian activity, tourism and public celebrations, have contributed to the recent boom in economic, social and civic activity Downtown. However, this increased activity has led to a greater challenge in coordinating all of these events. For example, many events such as long-distance runs, festivals and other celebrations, have the potential to disrupt traffic and impede necessary access if they are not properly communicated and executed.

In response to growing frustration around street closures in the Downtown area due to special events, open markets and street fairs, Councilmember Huizar introduced a motion today calling for a committee of Downtown stakeholders and residents to help manage special events permits that are pulled in Downtown. Councilmember Huizar’s motion also seeks to require City departments to notify the local council office whenever they get notice of planned street closures for a Special Event.

“As Downtown evolves into an ever more dynamic urban center, it is critical that we are thoughtful about the impacts that street closures have on residents, workers and tourists alike,” said Councilmember Huizar. “My office is committed to striking a balance between a vibrant urban core that boasts incredible nightlife and daytime activities, and a livable environment for Downtown residents, workers and visitors. Great cities absolutely can serve all these purposes.”

The Committee will consist of representatives from the Downtown Neighborhood Council, BIDs in the area and other key decision makers. The aim of the committee is to effectively coordinate and monitor the amount and types of

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special events that are granted in the Downtown area and to advise the Council office and City on planned events, as well as help mitigate street closure concerns well in advance.

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While ten years ago, Downtown was home to little over 10,000 residents, it now boasts a residential population of over 50,000. Downtown is also a critical economic center with an estimated 500,000 people coming to work in Downtown Los Angeles each and everyday.

The City’s Department of Transportation is currently working on a new GIS notification system, which will allow the public to see special events happening in their area in real time. While this new system will be a useful tool for residents and businesses throughout the City, it doesn’t address or coordinate the approval of street closures and special events.

A second motion was introduced by the Councilmember today to halt a proposed summer event sponsored by Budweiser at Grand Park that would have significant impacts on the Downtown community.

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