A long-empty lot near City Hall is set to become an ‘art park,’ but not everyone in downtown Los Angeles agrees with the plan. Some residents and a major union have expressed discontent with how the proposal was managed.
Details of the Lease Agreement
AltaMed Health Services, a nonprofit, is leasing the two-acre lot on 1st Street and Broadway from the city for $175,000 through next February. Their plan includes creating ‘El Corazón Art Park’ with features like an art gallery for Mexican and Chicano works, 30 boxed trees, a health center, and a 20-foot video screen.
Community Concerns
However, the plan hasn’t been well received by all. Some community members are concerned that decisions were made without their input. Previously, there were expectations for the city to create a public park in the area, leading to fears about AltaMed’s long-term intentions for the space.
“For a half-century this space has been surrounded by beautiful buildings and parks, and it is a failure that it has not been utilized,” said Jens Midthun, head of the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council.
Midthun highlighted the importance of engaging the community in such projects.
AltaMed’s Stance
AltaMed, which operates over 40 medical centers in Southern California, focuses on health care access for Latino and multi-ethnic communities. Their CEO, Cástulo de la Rocha, supported Mayor Karen Bass’ campaign, contributing over $34,000 along with other executives.
A spokesperson for Mayor Bass described the plan as beneficial for a city with a significant Latino population.
AltaMed’s vice president, Christina Sanchez, explained that the park would revitalize the site, offering free arts and recreation without burdening taxpayers. She mentioned their compliance with the city’s review process and interactions with local groups.
Union Opposition
The Service Employee International Union, Local 721, which represents over 100,000 public sector workers, also opposes the plan, advocating for a public park. They argue that the project required a more thorough environmental review and raised concerns about potential costs for public use and AltaMed’s plan for the site’s long-term lease.
AltaMed evaded some union claims, reiterating that ‘El Corazón Art Park’ aligns with their mission.
Historical Context
The site’s past is marked by the 1971 Sylmar earthquake, which damaged the California State Building previously occupying the space. The building was demolished, and since then, plans for development have been stalled due to financial constraints.
Despite a 2013 city plan to create a public park as part of the ’50 Parks Initiative,’ funding setbacks led to the park’s delay.
Project Developments
AltaMed pursued the project in private discussions with city officials as early as 2024, proposing a long-term lease for a cultural site. In 2025, a plan was presented for a single-year lease, originally to coincide with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although this was not realized.
The current proposal features a temporary pop-up art park scheduled for 2027, with support from Mayor Bass and Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, who emphasized ensuring transparent long-term site use.
Community Reaction and Future Prospects
The Downtown Los Angeles Residents Association expressed concerns that the temporary park could lead to more permanent changes without sufficient public involvement.
As construction began, resident association co-founder Cassy Horton called for a fair, transparent process, criticizing the city’s realignment of resources from promised projects.
Despite challenges, the art park’s development moves forward, marking a notable chapter in downtown L.A.’s ongoing debate over public space utilization.
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