January 30, 2020
Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, during his annual State of Hollywood address, announced the release of a concept plan to enhance the built environment and improve the pedestrian experience on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the latest proposal regarding his “HEART of Hollywood” initiative.
In 2019, Gensler was retained to work on a “Master Plan” for the historic Walk of Fame with the goal of designing a more pleasant, cohesive, and enjoyable experience along the public right-of-way. The concept plan is the first major step toward the final Master Plan. Based on the design and recommendations contained within the Master Plan, the City will plan for targeted construction projects to improve the area.
“The Walk of Fame Master Plan is the signature project of my ‘HEART of Hollywood’ initiative, and the concept plan is just the first step,” said Councilmember O’Farrell. “We are working to update the Walk of Fame in a balanced, holistic, cohesive way. As this evolves, we will keep building a sense of consensus and collaboration around various ideas. I encourage Hollywood stakeholders to view the concept plan in its entirety, provide feedback, and join us throughout this process.”
The concept plan is the product of months of community outreach, including focus group meetings, an open house, and over 20 roundtable discussions hosted by the Councilmember’s office. Community outreach efforts will continue as the plan moves forward. The plan envisions a Walk of Fame that better accommodates people, especially pedestrians, and businesses by adding more street trees, sidewalk dining, and lighting, to name just a few of the proposed amenities.
Since luminaries Stanley Kramer and Joanne Woodward first received their stars decades ago, the Walk of Fame has been an internationally recognized landmark that draws millions of annual visitors, in addition to being home to many residents and businesses.
“As someone who operates a business directly on the Walk of Fame, I have appreciated being part of multiple focus group sessions,” said Wally Moran, general manager of Wood & Vine restaurant. “I look forward to continuing to work with the project team, the City, and the community as this takes shape.”
“It’s exciting to be involved in this collaborative effort,” said Erin Penner, another focus group participant and a board member for the Hollywood United Neighborhood Council. “Hollywood is such a unique place with people of all ages from all walks of life. It’s inspiring to then imagine a Walk of Fame that actually incorporates our various needs.”
“The Hollywood Pantages is proud to be a longtime stakeholder on the Walk of Fame, and to serve a diverse population including local residents as well as visitors,” said Jeff Loeb, general manager of the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. “We are particularly aware of the need to provide a better experience along the Walk of Fame, and will continue to lend our voice to this important project.”
The concept plan is viewable online at https://heartofhollywood.la, where Hollywood stakeholders are encouraged to view the document and provide feedback. In 2020, Gensler and the City will further their technical analysis of the area, and perform more refined design proposals on various elements that may be recommended.
The City of Los Angeles Bureau of Engineering is the lead City agency on the project.
Review the concept plan here, and provide feedback here.