I feel like San Jose wanted to be LA, but for all the wrong reasons.”

Over the Memorial Day weekend, the gf and I took a trip to LA. I’ve been trying to keep up with what’s going on, and it seems to me that LA has the most going for it as far as a place for progressive planning. They certainly have the need, and now it looks that it’s finally paired with the will.

Did you know that for all the bashing that it endures, LA is still the second densest city in California? For all the ballyhoo it gets for the rail/trolley system San Diego is less than half as dense and arguably maxing out that systems potential. With a relatively new rail system up, along with an increase of riders on the existing subway (who knew there was a subway!), even the ‘Brits’ seem to be taking notice.

On the final day of the trip we made it out to Santa Monica. Strolling down the 3rd St Promenade, I was struck by how absolutely pleasant it was and was quickly reminded of all the failures of Satan Row. Federal Realty Investment Trust, the developer responsible for both properties, certainly was not given enough guidance into how the development would tie in with the surrounding area.

The promenade is a wonderful gathering spot within walking distance of the pier. While the collection of shops could hardly be considered eclectic was well served by the preservation of the pre-existing building stock. It has gone on to spur further adjacent development. Santana Row on the other hand requires patrons to enter a parking lot to reach its faux-main street. There is little variance in architecture, is served only by bus and no other form of transit, and can’t hope to help densify the surrounding area. It’s saving grace may be that it trains suburbanites in to becoming more urbane.

While it might not ever be Portland South, LA’s reputation as the epicenter of sprawl may not be so deserving.