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Are NIMBYs Blocking Access To The Hollywood Sign?
The Hollywood Sign after refurbishment (Photo courtesy Sherwin-Williams)
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The Hollywood(land) Sign is one of the most iconic signs in Los Angeles so naturally it draws visitors from all around who want to get as close to it as they can. The easiest and one of the most popular ways to visit is the Hollyridge Trail. If the trail is such a popular way to visit the sign, why has it been closed for the last five months?
A post from Curbed LA chronicles the ongoing battle between residents of Beachwood Canyon and the thousands, if not millions, who visit the sign yearly. Through their neighborhood group "Hollywoodland Beachwood Drive United," the NIMBYs have waged battles over everything from local parking issues to map apps.
The latest salvo in the war arose out of a concession the residents of Beachwood Canyon had made. The Hollyridge Trail was closed back in March in order to install a new gate, but only for "five weeks or so." It has been 19 weeks since and the trail remains closed. The new gate would replace the old T-bar gate that was inadequate at keeping trespassers away during after hours. "There's a necessity for a gate at this location because of its overwhelming popularity," said Councilman Tom LaBonge, who represents the community.
Why the delay in reopening the trail? Tracy James, the councilman's director of field operations in the area, told Curbed "midway through construction" they decided to switch to a mechanical gate instead of a manual gate. But have no fear, visitors apparently won't have to wait much longer. The gate is "a very short time from completion." Sure.
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Last year, an email blast from Hollwoodland Beachwood Drive United wrote, "REMEMBER: We must not lose sight of our goal to close the trail head. We must keep up our pressure on the City." Seems like they are getting their way for the the time being.
With the Hollyridge Trail removed as an option for the time being, remember there are still other ways for visitors to get an up-close glance of the iconic landmark.
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