Los Angeles is entering a new phase of growth and physical transformation, as a postwar landscape defined largely by open space and low-rise buildings gives way to the demand for density. As new investment in infrastructure, public transportation, and housing moves forward, this evolution of our city's fabric will inevitably affect historic places.

The L.A. Historic Neighborhoods Conference is a biennial convening that provides a forum to discuss issues affecting older and historic neighborhoods. 

We believe historic places enhance community character and livability of neighborhoods.  

Decisions about historic places don't take place in a vacuum; they often relate to other pressing issues such as housing and transit. At the heart of these varying interests is a strong desire by residents to maintain the character and livability of their communities.  

While hard to define, community character gives a neighborhood its context and meaning. 

Community character could be a tree-lined street of historic homes, a long standing corner store and gathering place, or the neighborhood theatre. It could stem from a place's architectural features, its social or cultural significance, or a combination. 

How do we plan for this change and manage it in a thoughtful way, so that the places we cherish are retained as an integral part of this new wave of development, rather than being needlessly thrown away?

This microsite represents the Conservancy's effort to outline key neighborhood trends, demystify policy proposals and planning tools, and share stories about L.A. neighborhoods. The ideas introduced here are converging to determine how our city looks, feels, and functions for generations to come. Though these development trends are evident in cities throughout L.A. County, our focus here is the City of L.A. 

Peruse these pages to learn more about the issues—including mansionization, multi-family teardowns, high-rise development, and pressures to commercial corridors—and find out how you can get involved with planning efforts in your neighborhood.  

If you have questions or feedback about this microsite, let us know!