By Betti Halsell, Los Angeles Sentinel
The heritage and culture of Los Angeles flows through the veins of the Leimert Park Village community. Businesses that took root near historic Leimert Boulevard reflect the neighborhood’s progress and elevation. In this quaint, Black artistic-mecca, comprised mostly of store fronts, restaurants and vendors in South L.A., there is a history pride for the community and culture.
On Monday, May 17, Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas illuminated the work happening at the park and surrounding area of the village. He revealed the new improvements that will be taking place. Juneteenth will reintroduce the utilization of the area and also be symbolic to the restoration of the Leimert Park Village legacy.
“As Councilmember for the 10th District, I am committed to working with local stakeholders to not only celebrate the rich cultural and social legacy of Leimert Park Village but create a future for the village that is safe, clean and welcoming for all members of the community to enjoy,” Ridley-Thomas stated.
The Councilmember invited the L.A. Sentinel to see the process of rejuvenation happening, Ridley-Thomas talked through the steps towards restoration in Leimert Park village as he took strides along the fountain in the plaza. Walking through the gates, workers in hard hats were deconstructing part of the teal-colored barrier, a portion of the gate is coming down for more accessibility to the restroom area.