This article talks about the propositions regarding the long disputed Vermont/Manchester Lot. This location was originally promised to transform into the ambitious Vermont Entertainment Project directed by Eli Sasson and The Sassony Projects. This project was supposed to provide a center for bustling commercial activities and jobs for the neighborhoods around it. However, continuous delays and a severe lack of project updates left the supporters of this project in a state or confusion and restlessness. After many years of "stunted" progress, Mark-Ridley Thomas hopes to claim the property to turn it into a site with affordable housing, transit hub, and a school.
I found this location to be quite an interesting topic because it brings about the issue of failed and unfinished revitalization projects promised to people of an oppressed community. The arguments surrounding this property are all used by many people for personal political and economic advancement. A "stunted" project is only being replaced with a new fresh idea that provides no assurance to the affected people aside from another "promise of hope". This lot was originally burned in the LA riots of 1992 and to this day, it remains empty. It serves as a reminder of the tragedy while acting as a lasting negative economic black hole for the communities around it.
-Patrick Jay Quizon
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