continuity of parks

Cultural Monument #82

What to do with the biggest vacant lot in downtown LA?

The last crop of corn had long been harvested from the erstwhile Chinatown Railyards. After one agricultural cycle, the Not A Cornfield Project was planning a sendoff party for Friday, March 31. The California State Parks Department, on that date set to resume stewardship of the 32-acre plot, announced a design competition for a new park.



"The community surrounding this park has clearly said they want something unique and special on this site," said Ruth Coleman, Director of State Parks. "We are looking for a design team that is capable of integrating the community involvement with the most ingenious designs to create an iconic park. We are looking for a sustainable design that captures the major historical and archeological significance of the site."

The competition, co-sponsored by the California Parks Foundation, was free and "open to all interested candidates." Deadline for bids was set for 5 p.m., 17 April, 2006.

Here's what it sounds like onsite.