Empty Alley In NoHo Arts District Transformed Into Public Gathering Place

NORTH HOLLYWOOD (CBSLA.com) — An alley behind one of the busiest streets in the San Fernando Valley is being transformed into a new public space under a citywide initiative.

KNX 1070's Pete Demetriou reports Mayor Eric Garcetti was among several city officials on hand Monday to mark the opening of NoHo Plaza located in the heart of the North Hollywood Arts District along Lankershim Boulevard.:

The Plaza - which marks the first project of the mayor's "People St" program - was created by revamping an alley behind Lankershim by covering the pavement with an artistic design and with planters, tables, chairs, umbrellas and more, according to officials.

Officials with the NoHo Business Improvement District (BID) applied under the People St. program and was selected to partner with the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) to spearhead the initiative to transform the aging space using colorful surface treatment, perimeter planters, and other materials.

For a relatively low cost of $57,000, Garcetti expects the plaza to do wonders for an entertainment and restaurant zone.

"People St. program allows community groups, the people who know a neighborhood best, to help the city to create city spaces, to create great open civic plazas...and ultimately to make the city more prosperous," Garcetti said.

Officials say the NoHo BID purchased the furnishings and will maintain the space and host public activities and events at the plaza.

The NoHo Plaza is one of three plazas that are opening this month under the People St initiative with two more in Leimert Park on 43rd Place and in Pacoima on Bradley Avenue.