The City of Los Angeles may solicit developers for a pair of LADOT-owned parking lots near the Crenshaw/LAX Line in Leimert Park.

In a motion introduced last week, City Council President Herb Wesson calls for the Economic and Workforce Development Department and other city agencies to issue a request for information for the potential development of parking lots located at 3416 W. 43rd Street and 4300-4326 S. Degnan Boulevard.

The motion cites a Market Study by HR&A Advisors for the Economic and Workforce Development Department, which found "potential market demand for residential, retail, and office in the area surrounding Lemert Park Village."  However, the study found that residential was the highest performing use and the most likely to succeed on the two properties.  Additionally, the market study considered current and future parking needs in Leimert Park Village, and identified alternatives to integrate parking into a new development.

Wesson's motion has been referred to the City Council's Economic Development Committee for consideration.

In advance of the Crenshaw/LAX light rail line, which is scheduled to begin service next year, several developers have zeroed in on Leimert Park, which will have an underground station near the intersection of Vernon Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard.  At 3450 W. 43rd Street, a 62-unit development without on-site parking is slated to replace a medical office building.  Just north of the two city-owned lots, a modular 111-unit apartment complex is now being built at 4252 Crenshaw Boulevard.