Urgent Calls for L.A. Infrastructure Repairs to Address Sidewalk Safety and Housing Density

To the editor:

I live on Silver Lake Boulevard. After Metro stopped Line 201, I had to walk to Sunset Boulevard to catch a bus. I had a senior Metro pass.

Now, due to the bad condition of the sidewalk between Berkeley Avenue and Sunset Boulevard, I often use a ride-sharing service, ask a friend for a ride, or simply stay home. I have fallen a few times, and once, I needed help from paramedics. Luckily, I was never seriously injured.

I don’t know how to fund the repairs you mentioned in your editorial, but we need solutions.

—Sue Kamm, Los Angeles

To the editor:

If Los Angeles lacks funds for infrastructure, officials should consider allowing more dense development in single-family neighborhoods.

Suburban housing doesn’t bring in enough property tax revenue to maintain roads, sidewalks, and streetlights. We don’t need large apartment buildings that upset some residents. Smaller apartment buildings and mixed-use developments can provide the necessary revenue.

This change could address both our maintenance issues and the housing crisis.

—Justin Johnson, Hermosa Beach

To the editor:

I am glad The Times’ editorial board highlighted the need to fix basic infrastructure like buckled sidewalks and broken streetlights. We should also include planting street trees for shade and removing graffiti.

We need to urge city officials to act quickly. We have until the summer of 2028, when the Olympics will bring visitors to our city, to make Los Angeles shine.

—Wally Marks, Los Angeles