Los Angeles transformation: how Mayor Bass is reshaping the city

As Mayor Karen Bass approaches her second anniversary in office, she reflects on the significant strides her administration has made in transforming Los Angeles. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to addressing the needs of all residents, with a focus on tackling homelessness, enhancing public safety, creating jobs, and modernizing infrastructure. These efforts are particularly crucial as the city prepares to host major global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. During a recent press conference in Koreatown, Mayor Bass emphasized the importance of improving city services, stating, “We are working to improve city services as we continue urgent preparations to host world events.”

Under her leadership, the city has delivered more services to Angelenos this year than in the previous two years combined. This includes a notable 10% reduction in street homelessness, achieved through the Inside Safe initiative, which represents a significant shift in addressing the crisis by moving people off the streets and streamlining housing construction processes. Mayor Bass proudly noted, “Our response is breaking with the old ways of doing things.”

Enhancing Public Safety and Community Engagement

Mayor Bass’s administration has also focused on enhancing public safety, resulting in a decline in homicides and an increase in LAPD applicants. The Office of Community Safety is exploring new safety strategies that are centered around community needs. One of the key initiatives includes deploying a record number of crossing guards, installing over 250 speed bumps, and establishing 450 school slow zones to ensure the safety of children and families. Mayor Bass remarked, “We’ve taken urgent action to make the streets safer for children and families getting to and from school.”

In addition to safety measures, the Mayor has been instrumental in supporting local businesses and boosting economic activity in Black neighborhoods. She envisions a Los Angeles where tourists not only visit iconic spots like Venice Beach but also experience the rich culture of neighborhoods such as Koreatown, San Pedro’s waterfront, and the Crenshaw District.

Infrastructure and Economic Growth

A significant focus of Mayor Bass’s administration has been on creating jobs and improving public transportation. Metro ridership has seen a consistent increase every month since she took office, with the system crossing over one million daily riders this year. This success highlights the city’s dedication to creating a transit framework that propels Los Angeles forward. Mayor Bass stated, “This shows we’re building a transit infrastructure for the future of Los Angeles.”

In preparation for the upcoming global events, Mayor Bass signed Executive Directive 9 to streamline infrastructure projects, ensuring that the city is ready for the global spotlight. Vahid Khorsand, a member of the Board of Public Works, expressed confidence in the city’s readiness, saying, “The mayor has given us the green light, and we are up to the task of delivering world-class services for a world-class city.”

Inclusivity and Environmental Initiatives

Inclusivity remains a cornerstone of Mayor Bass’s vision for Los Angeles. Her administration is dedicated to ensuring that when the world visits L. A., they encounter not only a clean city but also the diverse neighborhoods that make it unique. Projects to increase access to green areas and tackle environmental inequities are already taking place, with the addition of more than 200 solar streetlights in areas like the San Fernando Valley to improve safety.

Mayor Bass is committed to making Los Angeles more livable, equitable, and inclusive. Her administration’s progress is not only preparing the city for global events but also ensuring that local communities, including Black Angelenos, benefit from a city moving in a new direction. As she stated, “We are making Los Angeles more livable, and that urgent action will continue into the new year.”

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles, consider exploring beyond the typical tourist attractions. Discover the vibrant cultures and communities that Mayor Bass is working to highlight, such as Koreatown and the Crenshaw District. These areas offer a unique glimpse into the diverse fabric of the city and are a testament to the Mayor’s commitment to inclusivity.

For seasoned travelers, delve into the city’s evolving public transportation system. With Metro ridership on the rise, it’s an opportune time to experience the convenience and efficiency of L. A.’s transit infrastructure. This not only offers a sustainable way to explore the city but also provides a deeper understanding of the urban landscape that Mayor Bass is striving to transform.

In conclusion, Mayor Karen Bass’s administration is making significant strides in shaping a better Los Angeles. Her efforts to address homelessness, enhance public safety, and promote inclusivity are paving the way for a more equitable and vibrant city. As you explore Los Angeles, take a moment to reflect on the changes taking place and consider how these developments contribute to the city’s future. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Los Angeles offers a dynamic and evolving experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.