Jordan Downs Project to Interface Public With Private

This Weekend, the Los Angeles Times published a report detailing progress on the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles' ('HACLA') ambitious five year plan to revitalize the Jordan Downs housing project.  Located at the southern border of Los Angeles City, in the neighborhood of Watts, Jordan Downs has attracted significant national attention since its opening in 1955.  Its use and purpose have been both lauded and condemned as an exemplar of public housing and welfare services.  In an attempt to revitalize both the project and surrounding area, HACLA purchased 28 acres of adjacent land, with the intent of constructing an additional 900 - 1,100 residential units, as well as industrial, office and retail space.  Once completed, it is contemplated that current residents will be moved into the new units, so that the old units may be renovated.  After nearly five sluggish years, during which HACLA's resources have been almost entirely dedicated to preparing current residents for the transition, it is anticipated that this year will finally see development commence.