“Public spaces need room – fields to play and
act in, and objects to play with, identify with
and react against. This is the architecture. The
rest is city life.” (Bunschoten 6).

Premise:
The lack of public space in Los Angeles is privatizing the lifestyle of its various distinct neighborhoods. The creation of new public nodes of interaction, connecting social boundaries will ensure the vitality of these neighborhoods.

Contention:
Due to its lack of programming and connective infrastructure, the Los Angeles River exists as an uninhabitable rift between three low-income communities. Architecturally rehabilitating the riverfront allows for an opportunity to connect these divided communities by providing public nodes to encourage cultural interaction and community identity, particularly among its large underprivileged youth population. The incorporation of recreational and educational facilities within a rehabilitated wildlife corridor will provide the youth on both sides of the river with a new community destination.