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Barbara Klein's avatar

Very informative as always. Excellent

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Mike Callahan's avatar

Is the land owned by the State? If so, no demo permit is required from LADBS. And, since demolition was likely addressed in an old EIR, no new notification is required either.

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Esotouric's Secret Los Angeles's avatar

That might explain why there are no recent deeds on file--but why did the inspector from LADBS hit them with a code violation and requirement to obtain a permit, if it's state property? He is not calling us back about this.

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Mike Callahan's avatar

No demo permits are on file for the Friedman building at 801 Commercial. I doubt they would be tearing it down given the recent upgrades as a storage facility. Might the demo be for the building at 827 Commerical? There is one permit from 2024 for a digital billboard on Metro property. It is possible that Metro just grabbed the building at 801 and now owns it. Friedman is still in business so you might give them a call.

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Esotouric's Secret Los Angeles's avatar

Friedman has been out of there for many years, and at least two different self storage companies have used the buildings. We spoke with a worker about plans for the demolition, including specifics about the construction methods of 801, and the whole complex is planned to be brought down with no salvage. From the freeway on Saturday, it appeared that interior demo continues from the east, but has not yet reached 801.

Can you try to communicate with the LADBS inspector? You speak their language! ; )

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Butch's avatar

Metro operates as if it is above accountability, pushing out flashy claims about improved train stations, buses, and service while ignoring the real issues plaguing its transit system. The reality is that many of their buses are in unacceptable condition—riding on worn-out suspension systems, featuring dirty and poorly maintained seating, and failing to provide a safe and comfortable environment for paying passengers.

Adding to the problem, Metro continues to allow homeless individuals to board buses without paying, often bringing excessive belongings like bags of recyclables and suitcases, creating unsanitary and unsafe conditions for other riders. While a handful of bus drivers attempt to enforce some order, the majority appear indifferent to the well-being of their passengers.

Metro cannot hide behind the excuse that it is a “public service.” It has a fiduciary duty to prioritize the health and safety of its riders, yet it repeatedly fails to do so. If the agency truly cared about its customers, it would focus on tangible improvements rather than empty promises.

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Joe H's avatar

Not that I need more books, but Los Angeles Before the Freeways! Ah! After a winter of reading Haddad's Freewyatopia... this sounds like the perfect opposite...

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