1st + Main | The City Planning Department Blog

Based on recent data , African-Americans only represent 7.9% of those in the planning profession. In 2017, TheRoot.com published an article titled, “Urban Planning Can’t Happen Without Black People in the Room—Yet It Does,” reflecting on the importance of having multiple voices when planning and designing a city.  In the City of Los Angeles, we see diversity throughout the City and in those who are helping plan the future of Los Angeles. In 2018, 16% of new hires and 12% of all promotions within the Department of City Planning were of African-Americans, representing 12% of the entire Department.  Below, the Department of City Planning’s African-American City Planning Assistants and Associates share their advice for those interested in entering the profession. Scroll below to get their insights, and get inspired to plan!   Kyle Winston "I grew up in South Central LA. I watched my neighborhood burn during the LA riots and then sit untouched for years won...

Looking for something fun and not-so-frightening to do this Halloween? The City of Los Angeles is a great place to explore!  Home to some of the nation’s most popular cultural hotspots, Los Angeles has many historic neighborhoods for you to visit this Halloween. Whether you’re looking for tricks or treats, the City has some great places to experience the spookiest day of the year. Check out the featured neighborhoods below and other historic neighborhoods on our Office of Historic Resources website.   Angelino Heights Trek up the hilltop residential area of Angelino Heights to feel like you’ve taken a time machine to the late-19th century. This area is home to beautiful leafy hillsides, with some of the best remaining examples of Victorian-era architectural styles in Los Angeles, as well as later examples of Craftsman and Mission Revival Style homes. Residents of this area don’t skimp on Halloween candy or decorations either! If you decide to stop here for som...