A vacant lot near City Hall in Los Angeles is being transformed into an ‘art park,’ but not without controversy. Residents and a strong union have raised concerns about the process and the agreement.
The nonprofit AltaMed Health Services is leasing the two-acre space at 1st Street and Broadway from the city for $175,000 through February of next year. AltaMed plans to construct ‘El Corazón Art Park,’ which will feature an art gallery for Mexican and Chicano works, 30 boxed trees, a health center, and a 20-foot video screen.
Some community members are unhappy with the deal, feeling excluded from discussions. They worry about AltaMed’s long-term intentions for a space that was initially promised as a city-owned park. Jens Midthun, from the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, expressed disappointment over not involving community park users in the decision-making process.
AltaMed operates 40 medical centers across Southern California with a mission to reduce health care disparities in Latino and multi-ethnic areas. The organization’s CEO, Cástulo de la Rocha, was on Mayor Karen Bass’ transition team following her 2022 mayoral victory. The company’s executives also contributed significantly to Bass’ campaign.
AltaMed’s park initiative has the mayor’s support. A spokesperson for the mayor highlighted Los Angeles’ Latino heritage as a reason for backing the project, which aims to celebrate Chicano and Mexican art.
AltaMed’s vice president of public affairs, Christina Sanchez, stated that the art park would offer free arts, recreation, wellness, and cultural programming at no taxpayer cost. She also mentioned that the project underwent a city-mandated public review and involved local organizations.
However, SEIU Local 721, a union representing over 100,000 public employees, opposes the plan. Their concerns include the need for stricter environmental review, clarity on public event charges, and AltaMed’s plans for a health service center and digital billboard in the park. The union also backed Mayor Bass, showing support through financial contributions.
AltaMed has had disputes with SEIU 721’s sister union, SEIU-UHW, at the state level. Although the organization did not address all union allegations directly, Sanchez reiterated that the project aligns with AltaMed’s mission.
The history of the lot dates back to post-1971 Sylmar earthquake when the California State Building was demolished. The city acquired it in 2013, intending to create a park as part of the ’50 Parks Initiative.’ However, rising costs delayed the project. The funds for it were allocated to other projects, leaving the lot unused.
Over time, AltaMed drew up plans with the city for leasing the space. In 2025, proposals included a Chicano museum, with substantial construction costs anticipated. AltaMed made requests for a long-term ground lease but later pursued a temporary park lease until a year-long agreement was reached.
The recreation board approved the plan to establish a pop-up art park, supported by Councilmember Ysabel Jurado. She emphasized her support as contingent on transparent community engagement, especially for long-term plans.
The plan’s approval faced an appeal from SEIU 721 which was eventually rejected, allowing the project to continue. Community activists called for a transparent process for future site use.