Proposed Parkway
We start with three lanes in each direction. We spend $27 million to acquire the right of way and $68.2 million on improvements, for a total of $95.2 million of taxpayer money. We end up with three lanes in each direction, which is what we started with.
Consider the growth of the entertainment industry on the Westside, which without any other consideration materially increases the need for improved east-west traffic flow. Here was a golden opportunity to accomplish a small increase in capacity by adding east-west lanes and it was sacrificed to parochial views instead of considering regional needs.
As for the proposed tree-lined boulevard, we will have to wait and see. Wilshire Boulevard between Sepulveda and Federal had an ugly, paved center divider, painted green and full of weeds. Someone just came along and tore the entire divider out and then put it right back. No trees, no plants, just cement, in order to save money. Will that happen to Santa Monica Boulevard?
What a wasted opportunity.
HAROLD L. KATZ
Los Angeles
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