At Investing in Place, we believe that public spaces are the heart of Los Angeles. Today, we’re excited to announce the release of our latest report, “Common Ground: Favorite Public Spaces in Los Angeles.” Nearly 200 Angelenos have shared their stories, giving us a glimpse into the parks, plazas, and sidewalks they love the most – spaces that connect them to nature, nostalgia, and one another.
What We Learned from Angelenos
In a series of 114 one-on-one interviews and 82 online surveys, participants told us about the places that matter most to them. From Griffith Park to Little Tokyo, Angelenos named more than 200 different spaces they love. What makes these spaces so special? It’s the memories they create, the accessibility they offer, and the ways they foster community.
Here’s a taste of what we heard:
Certain areas around Ventura Blvd. in Studio City/NoHo: Because it’s very accessible. I can usually find handicap parking. Sidewalks are maintained. We spend time eating, getting coffee, shopping and at the farmers’ market. It’s a place we’ve been going to forever. It’s special to me because of the nostalgia I have for it.
Little Tokyo: I love the vibrancy and walkable, great restaurants. The juxtaposition of the major cultural institutions in a walkable neighborhood – it creates the opportunity for a whole day.
Mid-City – Pico/Hauser – Coloring Book Plaza: It’s a wide area of sidewalk painted with outlines of flowers for kids to color in with chalk. There’s also a curved path that my kids love to scooter on their way to school. To hang with family/meet other families for play dates. Because we have no playgrounds in the neighborhood.
Hollenbeck Park: I grew up in the ‘hood. One of the only green spaces nearby. I go there to hang out, picnic. I grew up going there, we had birthdays and special events.
Key Findings
The report highlights the role public spaces play in the daily lives of people living in Los Angeles. People visit these spaces to connect with nature, exercise, unwind, and spend time with family and friends. Local, walkable spaces are particularly loved, with many people citing proximity and ease of access as reasons why their favorite spots are meaningful to them.
- 25 people said their favorite space is special because it’s close to home.
- 18 mentioned accessibility without needing a car.
- More people walk to their favorite space than any other mode of transportation.
Some spaces were especially popular: Griffith Park and the Los Angeles River Greenway topped the list.
A Call to Manage What Matters
As we elevate the importance of these spaces, it’s critical that decision-makers prioritize them in policies and investments. Last week’s Executive Directive #9 from Mayor Karen Bass, calling for equitable investment in the city’s public right-of-way, underscores the momentum to protect and enhance our shared spaces. But Common Ground reminds us why these places matter on a personal level – they aren’t just amenities; they’re integral to our city’s identity and the well-being of its people. Our neighborhoods rely on these spaces for everything from social connections to climate resilience. When we listen to the voices of those who depend on them, we can build a city that reflects the needs of all.
Explore the report and these wonderful places
We invite you to dive into Common Ground and discover the favorite public spaces in LA, along with the personal stories that make them special. Visit these places, celebrate our shared spaces, and enjoy the sense of community they offer!
