Future Sixth Street PARC Faces Concerns Over Graffiti, Homelessness

Concerns are mounting among Los Angeles residents regarding graffiti, crime, and potential homeless encampments at the future Sixth Street PARC (Park, Arts and River Connectivity), a $82 million park project spanning 12 acres from the Arts District to Boyle Heights, most of which sits under the Sixth Street Bridge, which has already had issues with vandalism and graffiti.

Residents like Tom Trafelet and Margarita Amador have voiced fears that the park could face issues similar to those seen at MacArthur Park, including vandalism and encampments.

Trafelet has initiated a petition urging city leaders to designate a 41.18 no-camping zone around the park. The petition has already garnered hundreds of signatures. "We want to be able to enjoy our soccer field. We want to be able to enjoy our splash pad," Amador said, emphasizing the community's desire for a safe and accessible park.

The park, which is still under construction, is already showing signs of graffiti. Some of the artwork is considered artistic, but much is deemed unsightly. Trafelet told FOX 11, "Some of it's kind of arty, but most of it is crap."

The Sixth Street PARC will feature playgrounds, a soccer field, and green spaces. However, its location under the Sixth Street Bridge, an area already plagued by copper wire theft and street takeovers, raises concerns about future security.

The Los Angeles Bureau of Engineering is overseeing the park's construction, with completion expected by the end of the year. Plans for security include live monitoring of security cameras by the LAPD once the park opens. The Department of Recreation and Parks will handle maintenance, while the city's Office of Community Beautification will manage graffiti removal.

Councilmember Ysabel Jurado is collaborating with city departments to establish a formal agreement for the park's security, maintenance, and management. Jurado supports creating a park advisory board to give residents a voice in the park's operation. "Keeping this park safe cannot begin and end with fencing or a 41.18 designation," Jurado said. "It requires clear accountability, consistent maintenance, regular programming, and a coordinated response when concerns arise."

The city has yet to announce a firm opening date for the Sixth Street PARC.