Welcome to Western
Public Space, Transportation
Project Partners: JCDecaux Street Furniture, LA Sign Company, Mural Painter LA, Laser Bend, City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, Los Angeles City Council District 4.
2018
Koreatown, Los Angeles, CA
We re-imagined Western Avenue in Los Angeles to be a more walkable, safe, and vibrant business corridor.
Welcome to Western is a public realm project informed by the many different users of Western Ave. between Melrose and 3rd St. Over the course of 2017, we facilitated three public events where we listened to the experiences and feedback of many different Western Ave. locals.
All this feedback informed the design of a variety of physical sidewalk improvements that enhance the pedestrian experience and benefit the small businesses on Western Ave.
Through robust engagement with Western’s diverse constituents, we heard the following goals for the street: 1) make Western a place that feels safe and welcoming; 2) support local small businesses and enhance vibrancy; and 3) help Western feel more friendly to pedestrians.
After over six months of permitting and installation, we unveiled the project at a Community Festival in August 2018. The festival featured diverse music and dance performances, arts workshops, community booths, and a scavenger hunt highlighting local businesses.