Pico Street Ends

How can the old Pico Boulevard street ends be transformed into a vibrant community space?

This project transformed the barricades on three street ends into more inviting community places. Working together, Koreatown Youth & Community Center led the community engagement process while LA-Más led the design and fabrication efforts. The design of the new barricades has been informed and inspired by the community’s input.

The design process took place over the course of several months and community events. Each time, LA-Más incorporated community feedback into the next iteration. Despite the original purpose of the planters – to serve as barricades to prevent drug dealing – community members wanted to keep the planters in place and an array of bright colors. The final design was informed by community leaders.

This project culminated with a lively community build day with many volunteers from the Pico-Union neighborhood and Loyola High School. It was a morning filled with planting, painting and community building. The result was the beautiful transformation of planters into a space the community can enjoy.