This Shopper Will Gladly Forgo Congested 3rd Street and Shop at Nordstrom in Seattle

The story on Farmers Market, May Co. and the Nordstrom expansion (“2 Big Retailers to Anchor Mall at Farmers Market,” Oct. 10) points out how important real estate will be in the ‘90s.

The pastel flogging of Detroit Street and Third by new stucco monsters is saddening. One ride down these roads, and it’s like the Epcot of budget architecture. But I suspect that in the deal for building permits, some of these developers “gave back,” and suddenly some streets are being repaved. New traffic signs, new stop signs. So maybe, with some loss, we all gain. I’m just afraid no one’s ever going to call it even.

A mall means traffic, plain and simple. As it is, the area is already packed solid.

I drive through this area every day. In the morning it’s easy because I’m past it by 7:30. But at night, my trip is halted by the sludge-like traffic flow. So, basically what the developers are saying is that in the spring of 1993, I will breeze past Farmers Market, Nordstrom, May Co., Beverly Center, the new 19-story, 500-room hotel, the $300-million retail business and residential development, the already-packed Third Street business district and whatever other mini-mall someone can jam in. Somehow I will get to Hancock Park.

Somewhere the bottom line applies. A buck is a buck. But progress marches on, and like many others, I would build if I owned the land.

My only hope is that we see superb planning, award-winning design and urban concepts that will set an example for other cities. The execution of some real talent and brilliance could change the face of this area for the better. We can make this impending doom into a fantastic addition to Los Angeles. I just hope that the designers are inspired for greatness rather than another stucco salad.

Keep up the good work. I’m moving to Seattle and taking all my friends with me.

JONATHAN TAYLOR

LOS ANGELES