Downtown Weekly LA

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DOWNTOWN WEEKLY THE SPIRIT OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024

FALL in LOVE with

DTLA LA ART SHOW RETURNS

VALENTINE

VIBEOSCOPE

H earts

&F lame

REALME Romance without the

RISK


22THE VANDALIZED PROPERTY OF DOWNTOWN WEEKLY

on the cover: La art show

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

PHOTO:

LA ART SHOW

LOCATION:

SOUTH PARK DTLA

THE VANDELS

<<

REALME APP HOOKS UP ONLINE DATING...3 10 GREAT WAYS TO BEAT TRAFFIC...4 DT APPETITE: HEARTS & FLAME...5 LA ART SHOW RETURNS...6 ARISTOCRATIX...ART SHOW WITH BALLS..7 OCEANWIDE EYESORE...8 DTLA WEEKLY

editor and chief KERI FREEMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Keri Freeman JACKSON ROBERTS VIOLA SATOR Aleks StajkovicALEKS STAJKOVIC TREVOR MCNEIL

photography GARY LEONARD shawn smith eric epperson keri Freeman

VIDEO & GRAPHIC Production @kerieatsdtla SHARON FELICIO

social media art hunter

DTLA WEEKLY Special thanks to... All rights reserved. DownMAYOR OF LOS ANGELES town Weekly is a news, event, & Council district 14 LIFESTYLE & Hospitality FREE resource. No portion THE CITY OF LA ofcommunity this publication may be reproARTS DISTRICT duced without express written CHINATOWN permission from the publisher. WEEKLY, in support of local CIVIC DISTRICT DTLA residents, businesses, workers and BUNKER HILL visitors of Downtown Los AnEXPO/USC geles, publishes DTLA WEEKLY. HISTORIC CORE Readers are recommended to LITTLE TOKYO make appropriate inquiries before wagering any sum in relaFASHION DISTRICT tion to any ad, article or feature FINANCIAL DISTRICT published herein. DTLA WEEKLY will not be liable to any person SKID ROW for loss or damage incurred or SOUTH PARK suffered as a result of his/her WAREHOUSE DISTRICT accepting, offering to accept or any invitation or advice THEGRAWN following contained in any ad, article or ARTWALK NEWS feature published herein.

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES WEEKLY

DTLA NEWS l EVENTS l LIFESTYLE I HOSPITALITY P.O. BOX 86601 - DTLA CA 90086 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 888-732-DTLA (3852) @DTLAWEEKLY

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SQUARE ONE: REALME APP by Keri Freeman

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 3

Romance Without the MOONLARKS Risk: RealMe DINETTE Hooks Up the Future of Online SOUTH PARK Dating Trusted Connections

R

ealMe is a platform that isn’t merely responding to the crisis—it’s attempting to reshape the very fabric of online dating by providing safer, trusted connections.

W

e’ve all been there, scrolling through the pages of a dating app, trying to make a solid connection with a complete stranger. We know nothing about a few photos, short description, and private DM’s inviting us out to places we’ve never been for experiences we have yet to know. Romance without the risk. Sometimes these encounters lead to longlasting relationships, with testimonials replayed on dating app invitations; however, a good number of dates end with undesirable outcomes. In the vast digital landscape where hearts and minds combine, there exists a paradox. The very platforms that promise to bring people closer are the ones from which many are retreating, driven away by a growing fear for their personal safety.

Yet, the fundamental human craving for connection persists. As the industry faces a downturn, with users prioritizing safety over potential matches, the digital dating market finds itself at a crossroads. Herein lies the challenge: The Answer: a disclaimer for danger. RealMe, a platform that isn’t merely responding to the crisis—it’s attempting to reshape the very fabric of online dating by providing safer, trusted connections. Considering the growing problem of fake accounts and bots used by scammers, RealMe makes it easy for dating sites to easily verify that their users are real people. By simply requiring a phone number, RealMe can ensure that the person behind a profile is genuine, offering a line of defense against imposters and catfish; revealing public records, background checks, and a history of behavior across the platforms they use.

RealMe offers detailed reports on potential matches, including criminal The numbers speak volumes: a shocking $1.3 billion was lost to romance scams in records, histories of violence, and sexual 2022 alone, according to the FTC, and an offenses. Users are equipped with crucial information. Such transparency is key to alarming percentage of women—42%— making informed decisions, laying down reported uncomfortable or threatening encounters. The result has had a profound the cornerstone of trust, and rebuilding the eroded trust between users and dating impact on the online dating industry, as users increasingly choose to log off rather platforms. than risk deception or worse. Seamless Connections RealMe integrates easily and seamlessly This exodus from online dating is not into dating apps. The tools it provides are just a trend; it’s a movement, with a designed to be unobtrusive yet effective, collective step back to safer ground. offering users a streamlined and secure

KOREAN KIMBAP EXPRESS FINANCE DISTRICT

experience without leaving the site. For dating platforms, partnering with RealMe is not just a feature—it’s a statement. It tells their users that their safety is being actively protected and that their well-being and protection are a priority. RealMe’s approach could be the beacon that guides online daters to safer shores and helps the market grow again. It’s a solution that addresses the core concerns driving people away from online dating, and it provides a pathway back to the world of virtual romance. Reimagining what it means to connect RealMe’s vision for the future of online dating is one where safety is not a luxury but a standard, a foundational element as essential as the algorithms that match profiles. This is not a small undertaking. The digital dating industry, despite its impressive $5.61billion revenue peak in 2021, faces a trust deficit that is dragging down the industry and cannot be bridged by simply charging people more. It requires a reimagining of what it means to connect in the digital age—a reimagining that places the safety and authenticity of users at its heart, with RealMe as the compass that leads us to where digital hearts beat strong and secure. @realmeglobal


4 10 GREAT PLACES: HOW TO BEAT TRAFFIC by Trevor McNeil

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

10 great ways to beat traffic in the heart of the city

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or everything great about DTLA, the fair city has always had a traffic bane, ironically caused by it being so great. A lot of people want to come here, and do, in their droves.

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t is a problem that dates back to before there were even cars in DTLA first incorporated in 1850, when horses and carts were all the rage. While it seems no way to really change this, there are ways to reduce the risk of getting trapped in gridlock. Here are 10 Great Ways to Beat DTLA Traffic in the Heart of the City…

One. Stick to the Plan!

It is simply a fact of statistics that the less distance needed to travel the less chance there is for something to go wrong. Even if commuters are here for a visit, having a clear plan of where to go each day and sticking to that general area helps things

go a lot smoother.

Two. Pay Attention to the News

Another easy way to avoid the worst traffic while driving is to keep an ear out on the traffic report for any accidents on the intended route. The cleanup from even a one fender bender can take hours and usually slows things down to a crawl at best. If the reporter is good, they not only specify where the accident is, but also alternative routes to avoid it.

Three. Avoid Construction Zones at All Cost

It is also a good idea to try and avoid construction if possible. With all the new

development, these tricky buggers are popping up everywhere. Apps like Google Maps can be a useful tool, making it possible to map up the best route for a trip and if there is any planned construction on the way.

Four. Packed Houses Equal Packed Roads

Before traveling, it is best to check online to see if there are any events nearby. Political motorcades, parades, protests, and sporting events are particularly bad in terms of packing up the roads.

Five. Sunday Drivers Rejoice

As with most things, there are also better times to drive than others. In general, morning and evening rush hours are bad times to be driving in the heart of the city, as are lunchtimes, at least in terms of weekdays. Fridays and Saturdays are worse after 4pm but Sunday, on the other hand, is a particularly good day, hence the term “Sunday Drive”, which applies even in L.A.

Six. Make a Parking Plan with Park Up

When commuters want to drive downtown but leave the vehicle while using alternatives to get around, set up parking for friends and family, or save time and gas when it comes to finding a safe parking space, there is the DTLA favorite parking app, ParkUp. The app, which has become increasingly popular in recent years, minimizes the amount of downtown driving that needs to be done and helps visitors find safe and secure parking.

cont...page 11 >>>


DT APPETITE: HEARTS & FLAME by Keri Freeman

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM55

An Italian Love Affair:

Chef Viusal Nazarli’s Hearts & Flame

L

os Angeles may be a melting pot of traditional cuisines, but when it comes to date night in DTLA, there’s a clear frontrunner: Italian.

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t’s not just about the romance associated with candlelit trattorias and checkered tablecloths. Italian food, at its core, is about sharing, indulgence, and celebrating the simple pleasures of good company and exceptional ingredients. And really, every night is date night at Chef Viusal Nazarli’s Hearts & Flame. Young chef Nazarli’s passion for Italian cuisine was ignited at the tender age of six and has matured gracefully into housemade dishes that dance on every palate. Pouring his life-long passion into every dish, Nazarli’s love language comes in the form of fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced with care and the dedication to creating a memorable experience for each and every diner. For those of us who like to start their love affairs with a touch of drama, the Beef Tartare is an entanglement of succulence, with its delicious tenderloin adorned with capers, mustard, and a luxurious crown of black caviar. Calm things down with the Carpaccio Branzino, a beautiful interplay of textures and flavors featuring a chilled, delicate sea

Another unique gift of Italian cuisine is that all menu items pair well with a glass of wine, and Hearts & Flame’s ever-growing wine list, features both Italian and Californian vintages.

Chef Viusal Nazarli Photo: Hearts & Flame

bass crudo drizzled with a vibrant pomegranate dressing. Or heat things up with a delectable plate of Polpo Tocco Toscano, a must-try for those intellectual conversations between seafood lovers. This perfectly charmed octopus mingles with sautéed black Tuscan kale, creating a series of new love notes inked with culinary expression. For a taste of pure comfort, the Smoked Lamb Chop with Truffle Risotto is a winner. Out of the few dishes that are visually stunning and served with enthusiasm, the truth behind the flavors of stacked lamb chops is revealed only after the smoke clears, just like the beginning of a new relationship. The aromas of an open kitchen fill the restaurant, enticing diners with the sweet existence of Shrimp Tagliolini with Manila clams with a touch of chili, or the classic Bolognese bursting with rich, meaty flavor. Servers dominate the enormous dining hall, aiming to please with their plates sizzling steaks, nautical treasures, and aphrodisiacs, either cooked over an open flame or stirred into the mix by a mixologist at the cocktail bar.

For those attempting to get spirited away, the cocktail bar at Hearts & Flame is a spectacular alter of love made from glass, dim lights, and hard liquors. From the relaxing Pear Martini to the unihibiting Elderflower Spritz, the full bar ensures a potential love match for everyone. The ambience Hearts & Flame is another key ingredient in their recipe, ripe for love. The modern industrial space is stylish yet warm, with exposed brick walls and soft lighting. The open kitchen adds a touch of energy and allows guests to witness the culinary artistry of the chef and his crew firsthand. Seating varies from cozy couches to a fireside courtyard with plenty of extra room for larger group gatherings and plenty of bar seating to celebrate new relationships. So, why does DTLA choose Hearts & Flame for the most romantic date nights? Maybe, because love is sweet at Hearts & Flame, thanks to the Mieloso Honey Cake with its delightful “when east meets west” twist. Or maybe it’s the endless variety of flavors and textures that keep things exciting. Variety is the spice of life. At Hearts & Flame, life’s an Italian love affair waiting to be discovered. Hearts & Flame is located at 225 S. Garey Street, Arts District, DTLA – Open Sunday to Thursday from 11am to 9:30pm and Friday-Saturday 11am to 10:30pm. @heartsandflamela


6 DTLA ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE: LA ART SHOW by Jackson Roberts

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

For the Love of Art: LA Art Show Returns to the LA Convention Center

C

reatives rejoice! The LA Art Show’s DIVERSEartLA program has returned to the Los Angeles Convention Center, promising a captivating exploration of memory, humanity, and the world’s newest art form, AI.

A

dding a dash of celebrity glamour to the mix is this year’s host, actress Lucy Hale. Known for her roles in Pretty Little Liars, The Hating Game, and the upcoming romantic drama Which Brings Me To You, Hale lends star power and artistic passion to the Opening Night Premiere Party, supporting the American Heart Association. From February 14th through February 18th, the LA Convention Center’s main exhibit hall will echo with a fusion of artists and collectors, as visitors navigate its artistic landscape, discovering hidden gems, mystic knowledge, and potentially life-changing networking opportunities with the who’s who of the Los Angeles art scene. Opening night’s red carpet leads to dozens of traveling exhibits by individual artists along with prestigious galleries and museums from all across the globe. A-list celebrities and long time art officiados, critics, and collectors, partake in a slew of popular food and spirit vendors, including regulars Vodka and what looks to be the return of Pink’s Hot Dogs.

Attendees at the LA Art Show Opening Night Gala will also enjoy performance art by acclaimed artist Choi Sori as she invites all to experience “Visible Sound: Wish Into the Wind,” a multimedia piece meant to reflect on the origins of life and the majesty of nature. Thriving on its connection between creators and collectors, the LA Art Show has always catered to artistic appreciation, while presenting the most unique investment opportunities. It’s a long-time Southern California tradition celebrating decades of dazzling multimedia installations, life-sized sculptures, interactive experiences, and fine art from the contemporary artists of today to the ancient iconic maestros. For the 2024 LA Art Show, participating art institutions will include the Lancaster Museum of Art and History, Nevada Museum of Art, Museum of Contemporary Art in Bogotá, MUSA Museum of Art, University of Guadalajara, Grodman Legacy and Guadalajara Foundation, AAL Museum of Santiago, Chile, Raubtier & Unicus Productions and Red Line Contemporary Art Center of Colorado.

Photos courtesy: LA ART SHOW

For 2024, the LA Art Show is proud to support the life-saving efforts of the American Heart Association’s Life is Why™ Campaign. LA Art Show partners include Citi, New York Times, LA Arts Online, Nextdoor and the City of Los Angeles, among others. OPENING NIGHT PREMIERE begins Wednesday, February 14, 2024, 6pm – 10pm, followed by General Admission Entry Thursday, February 15th from 12pm – 8pm, Friday, February 16, 12pm – 8pm, Saturday, February 17, 11am – 8pm and Sunday, February 18, 11am – 6pm. The LA Art Show takes place at the LA Convention Center, located at 1205 S. Figueroa Blvd., LA, CA 90017. @laartshow


DLTA ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE: ARISTOCRATIX by Keri Freeman

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 7

Aristocratix: The Art Show with Balls Literally

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ou’ve heard of “eyes wide shut,” but the Aristocratix interactive art show celebrating everything nude is more like “eyes wide open.”

showcasing their works alongside a mix of nude works in oil, acrylic, and sculpture that scale the high walls of the historic location. The fading interior trimmings of its 1906 structure expose the history of the building as the stage is set with nude figure models kept frozen under the spot lights, despite the steamed-up atmosphere.

B

rought to DTLA by the same curators of the Nude Art Show, panning back to 2018, this reporter’s only regret is that we couldn’t take more photos.

Truly, the message of kindness and acceptance, expressed through the aesthetic appreciation of the human body, forces guests to hide away their initial blushes.

Who knew loose lips, gravity-obedient breast, foreskinths, flattened butts (with cracks), imported wines, visual art and burlesque fit so well within the close-knit confines of the former Little Easy? Yet, Aristocratix is a rare blend of creativity, luxury, sophistication, and seductive allure. If collectors are not shy about a gallery opening where almost everyone except the servers is fully naked, then we’re not shy about it either. This contemporary fine art nude exhibition features the works of some of the world’s most talented painters, photographers, sculptors, and other artists,

power of art and performance to captivate the imagination, ignite emotions, and stimulate the senses,” say the founders.

Artist Nicolette Spear

Bondage and sketch pads abound while most attendees move slowly so as not to draw attention to their body painted or bare skin masterpieces in complete and utter vein. “Aristocratix is a place for those who believe in the

Safe and welcoming, the founders use their platform to support those who are less fortunate. From partnering with charitable organizations to supporting artists and performers, unlike some other unbearable art exhibits sprawn throughout the city.

Partnered with Giselle’s Legacy, a non-profit animal rescue committed to saving and rehabilitating animals in need, the partnership reflects a faith in the healing power of kindness and our commitment to the welfare of all living beings. “Our partnership with Giselle’s Legacy is just the beginning. Aristocratix plans to cultivate many partnerships with people and brands who share our values. By intertwining our love for fine and performing arts with our dedication to the public good, we seek to make a meaningful difference—one art exhibition, one rescued animal, and one act of kindness at a time.” Aristocratix does celebrate life in all its forms and invites all (21 and over) to join them in their mission. Exhibits Thursday – Saturday, now through February 28th. @aristocratixofficial


8 FALL IN LOVE WITH DTLA: VIBEOSCOPE by Hanna Playa

T

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

DT Weekly Valentine’s Day Weekend Vibeoscope - City Lights & Cosmic Crossroads

he City of Angels shimmers with possibility this Valentine’s Day Weekend, but navigating love in DTLA’s vibrant chaos requires a cosmic compass. So, heed the whispers of the stars, as DT Weekly unlocks your Valentine’s Day destiny: Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18): Embrace your individuality, Aquarius, but don’t shy away from intimacy. Why go solo when there are so many amazing adventurers in DTLA for couples from concerts, to movies, pottery classes and sports, instead of your usual solo hikes allow love to breath new life into someone close to you. Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20): Your empathy is a superpower, Pisces, but don’t lose yourself in others’ needs. Prioritize your own happiness, like a great workout to sweat out any excess drama. Gyms are great for finding others who appreciates your individuality, not just your emotional support. Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19): You radiate fiery confidence, Aries, but don’t confuse a hot dog stand with your soulmate. Slow down, appreciate genuine connections, and remember, chivalry isn’t dead, it’s just waiting in line at Grand Central Market.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20): Indulge your senses, Taurus, but don’t mistake luxury for love. Seek depth beyond expensive dinners. A heartfelt picnic under the Griffith Observatory stars might be more romantic than overpriced sushi. Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20): Your words weave magic, Gemini, but avoid getting lost in witty banter. Listen deeply, express authentically, and remember, communication is a two-way street, not a monologue at the DTLA Comedy Club. Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22): Nurture your own happiness, Cancer, before pouring your heart into others. Explore hidden depths of DTLA, like it’s free museum day at the Broad, and discover something new about yourself before opening up to someone new. Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 22): Own your spotlight, Leo, but share the stage with your love interest. Ditch the selfie stick at the Row DTLA and focus on capturing shared experiences, not just solo poses. Remember, love thrives on teamwork, not one-man shows. Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22): Meticulous planning has its place, Virgo, but leave room for serendipity. Avoid the prescheduled dates and explore quirky corners of history DTLA, like when inside Bradbury Building. Love might surprise you where you least expect it.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22): Your charm is undeniable, Libra, but don’t be afraid to make decisions. Skip the endless debates at City Hall and choose love with conviction. Remember, sometimes the perfect partner isn’t a reflection, but a complement. Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21): Your passion is magnetic, Scorpio, but avoid possessiveness. Channel your intensity into trust and vulnerability. Explore intimacy and inner meaning beyond the surface, like when delving into hidden chapels of Olvera Street. Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21): Wanderlust beckons, Sagittarius, but don’t let it overshadow potential connections. Instead of booking a oneway ticket, explore DTLA together, like a spontaneous happy hour escape to Engine Co 28. Share your fiery adventures, and love might tag along. Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19): Ambition burns bright, Capricorn, but don’t neglect your emotional needs. Take a break from conquering skyscrapers and embrace the softer side of the city. A romantic stroll through Grand Park might be more rewarding than another power lunch. Remember, love is just a dance under the DTLA skyline, not a solo performance. Embrace the unexpected, follow your intuition, and trust that even in the heart of the city, genuine connections can blossom. Happy Valentine’s Day Weekend


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10 DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE: OCEANWIDE EYESORE by Aleks Stajkovic

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

Eyesore or Opportunity? Oceanwide’s Unfinished Skyscrapers Draw Debate

E

Oceanwide Street Art Installation: Photo Salvador Avila

veryone seems started construction in 2015 with an estimated cost of $1 billion. It aimed to to have their feature residential units, commercial own opinion as spaces, and a luxury hotel, positioned near key landmarks such as to what should strategically the Crypto.com Arena and the Los Angeles be done with the Convention Center. Oceanwide Plaza.

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ecently, the controversial project made headlines after at least 27 floors of the towers were covered with graffiti by unknown taggers, who accessed the buildings through the scaffolding and spray-painted various words and symbols on the exterior walls. Neighbors see it as an eyesore. Artists liken it to a triumph of street art. And investors don’t want a sunken cost.

So, who’s right? Oceanwide Plaza represented a significant effort in DTLA to reshape and expand the city’s skyline, along with several other high-rise development projects started in the 2010s. The project, designed by CallisonRTKL and developed by Beijing-based Oceanwide Holdings

The complex consisted of three towers. Tower one, which would house a 184-room five-star Park Hyatt hotel and 164 serviced condo residences; and towers two and three, which would have 504 residential condominiums. The towers would range from 40 to 49 floors in height and reach up to 675 feet. The project also included a three-story retail mall with 153,000 square feet of space, and a twoacre private park on the ninth floor. However, the project encountered several setbacks and challenges, such as rising costs, labor disputes, design changes and regulatory issues. It also faced scrutiny from the US government, which investigated Oceanwide Holdings for possible ties to money laundering and national security risks. The project was further affected by the trade war and the COVID-19 pandemic, which strained the relations and the finances between the US and China.


In January 2019, construction was halted, as Oceanwide Holdings announced that it was undergoing a capital restructuring, and that work would resume shortly. However, the project remained stalled for months, as subcontractors filed liens and lawsuits against the developer for unpaid work totaling nearly $100 million. The project was briefly resumed in March 2019, after Oceanwide Holdings secured a $184 million loan, but was stopped again in late 2019, as the developer failed to meet the loan payments and deadlines. Since then, the project has been in limbo, with no clear indication of when or if it will be completed. Many of the residents and businesses in the surrounding area are unhappy with the graffiti and consider it an ugly sight, with some going as far to call it a nuisance. They complain that the graffiti attracts more vandalism, crime, and noise to their neighborhood, and that it lowers their property values. There are also concerns about the safety and structural integrity of the unfinished buildings. Many feel that the developer

>>> how to beat traffic cont...

VOL 20. NO. 5 FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2024 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 11

should clean up and secure the property as soon as possible or sell it to someone who can finish or demolish it. Many in the artistic community, however, feel differently. To the taggers who sprayed the buildings, their graffiti is not vandalism but art and activism. They claim that they are beautifying and revitalizing a public space that the developer left unfinished and unused. The Los Angeles City Council seems to agree with the former. They voted on last Friday to approve a proposal that requires the developer of the graffiticovered skyscraper complex to clean up and secure the property within 15 days. The motion was introduced by Councilmember Kevin de León, after four individuals were arrested for trespassing on the site. The motion is supported by several community groups, such as the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, the South Park Business Improvement District, and the Central City Association.

Nine. Take the Subway Utilizing the rapid transit subway system and light rails of the Metro Connector is still one of the best ways to avoid the clogged arteries of heavy traffic. Metro just opened three shiny new rail stations in downtown LA: Little Tokyo/Arts Seven. Choose a Rideshare Companion District, Historic Broadway, and Grand Another way to avoid heartache is to use Avenue Arts/Bunker Hill. From Bunker rideshare services to get around town. Hill to USC Metro’s Regional Connector Downtown has some state-of-the art to avoid traffic entirely with a smoother, options, including driverless cars from faster, transfer-free pulse beating from Waygo, and patient drivers help passengers between Azusa and Long Beach, and East ease the pain of having to maneuver LA and Santa Monica—all pumping a around downtown LA alone. smoother pulse of traffic from the heart of downtown, Union Station. Eight. Leave it to Metro Buses can be a good option, especially Ten.. Got Bike Lanes? once commuters are already downtown. There’s been an ever-growing option of Run by Metro (Los Angeles County bike lanes that have enhanced the city Metropolitan Transit Authority), bus stops for almost two decades. For locals and are abundant, drivers stick to schedule, visitors, bikes and scooters have become the fair is cheap, and Metro helps a more welcome way of transportation commuters get to their destinations on and are faster than walking and lots of time, making public transportation still the times faster than a traffic jam. best option for cost-effective travel in the Big City.

It is opposed, however, by the developer, Oceanwide Holdings, which claims that it is still committed to finishing the project and that it has been working with the city and the lenders to resolve these issues. But unless Oceanwide Holdings gets the funding it needs, completion will continue to loom into the future. Regardless, the city council, backed by the police and understandably frustrated neighbors, made themselves clear. The spray-painted instillation made from the complex is now literally the single largest in the world, but will soon be rendered an into evanescent fixture of Los Angeles’ art history. Enjoy it while it lasts.

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