Improving Planning Access for South Los Angeles

South Los Angeles, a region shaped by both resilience and systemic challenges, has long faced the impacts of disinvestment — redlining, gentrification, and urban renewal policies that displaced residents and limited access to opportunities.

For decades, this predominantly Black and brown community has been underserved in terms of city services, including planning and development services. It was more challenging for South LA residents to participate in the city's key planning conversations and decision-making processes, while residents of other Los Angeles districts have had easier access to development services.

The creation of the South LA Development Services Center (DSC) is a direct response to address this disparity. It brings much-needed local resources for planning, building, and housing services to historically underserved communities — crucial tools for fostering community empowerment and growth.

Community Challenge

Historically, South LA has struggled with a fragmented planning system that minimized local voices and created hurdles to access city services. Without an established DSC to facilitate planning and development, these residents had to travel to downtown Los Angeles — with travel times varying around an hour — for basic services, increasing barriers to equitable development. Historically underserved communities often had to advocate to meet basic planning needs, perpetuating cycles of inequality and neglect.

Planning Solution

The South LA DSC responds to these challenges with a one-stop shop for planning, building, and housing services. Its strategic location at the Mark Ridley-Thomas Constituent Service Center consolidates and co-locates critical city resources — reducing the need for long commutes to downtown LA empowering residents to engage in planning processes and contribute to local growth.

Mark Ridley-Thomas Constituent Service Center. Courtesy of the LA City Planning Department.

Now, it offers a central location for proactive planning consultations on projects, zoning regulations, and compliance with land use policies as well as building permit applications, and housing services to foster growth and economic opportunity in South LA.

By focusing on the needs of South LA residents and small business owners, the DSC creates opportunities for engagement and encourages community-driven growth. This marks a significant departure from past planning practices that often left South LA out of key conversations.

The creation of the South LA DSC is a direct response to the longstanding advocacy for equitable access to city services and is the culmination of decades of work by Black and brown planners.

Community Engagement

Community involvement has been central to the establishment of the South LA DSC. The center is staffed by planners and managers from the local area, fostering trust and ensuring that services are tailored to the needs of the community.

The South LA staff has participated in local events with high opportunities for stakeholder engagement, including the Taste of Soul Festival, Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce meetings, and South LA Neighborhood Council meetings. This personal connection allows residents to feel more engaged and involved in the planning process, encouraging greater participation in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.

Local leadership has emphasized the value of having planners who are committed to the growth and success of South LA and the DSC, underscoring its role in bridging the gap between city government and the community.

Outcome

For the first time, South LA residents have access to the planning and development services that other parts of the city have long enjoyed. This increased access not only empowers residents to engage more fully in the planning process but also fosters trust between the city and the community. This equitable planning framework represents a crucial milestone in the city's efforts to create a more equitable future.

Proactive planning consultations are now available through the South LA DSC. Photo courtesy of the LA City Planning Department.

The center is already producing tangible results, with residents benefiting from the streamlined service offerings. The convenience of having all these resources in one place can transform South LA by encouraging sustainable development that reflects the needs and aspirations of its residents and stakeholders.

Considerations for Other Cities

Other cities can look to South LA's DSC model as a blueprint for integrating equity into urban planning. Prioritizing accessibility and community engagement ensures underserved populations are not left behind in the planning process. This model demonstrates that equitable development starts with accessible, transparent, and community-centric planning strategies.

Conclusion

The South LA DSC's opening represents a crucial step toward rectifying historical inequities. By centering its approach on equity and community engagement, Los Angeles is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and prosperous future. This is not just about making services more accessible — it is about ensuring that South LA has an equal seat at the table in shaping the future of the city. Continued commitment to these values will be essential as the city moves forward in shaping a more equitable urban landscape.

Top image: Members of the LA City Planning Department. Photo courtesy of the LA City Planning Department.