Judge Tosses Controversial Hollywood Smart Growth Plan

A judge has sided with three civic groups challenging a new community plan for Hollywood that permitted increased density around transit stations. In a tentative ruling, Judge Allan J. Goodman called the plan "fatally flawed".

1 minute read

December 12, 2013, 8:00 AM PST

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj

"In a tentative 41-page ruling issued Tuesday, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Allan J. Goodman said city leaders failed to comply with the state's environmental law when it approved an update to the Hollywood Community Plan, which mapped out new limits for development in that neighborhood," reports David Zahniser. "In his tentative ruling, Goodman said the city's plan, and its accompanying Environmental Impact Report, contains 'errors of fact and of law.'"

The findings concerning the plan, which symbolized former mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's vision of "elegant density", and was supported by the area's Councilman (and new mayor) Eric Garcetti, are a major setback for the city.

"The decision, [Frank Angel, attorney for one of the plaintiffs] said, means the city will need to start over with its approval process, provide more accurate population data and improve the analysis of alternatives."

FULL STORY: Judge deals major blow to Hollywood growth plan

Wednesday, December 11, 2013 in Los Angeles Times

Land Use California Hollywood Community Plan CEQA

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.