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Council to Vote on Proposed Flashy Downtown Skyscrapers
Rendering of the proposed buildings
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Imagine the DTLA skyline including a pair of skyscrapers whose top levels are lit up with colorful flashing bulbs in a variety of imagery. That is what could happen in the stead of the almost-60-year-old Wilshire Grand Hotel, should the LA City Council vote to approve a proposed project backed by Korean Air that would see the erection of a 45-story hotel and companion 65-story office building, according to ABC7.Creating the arty, flashy visuals would be "several million LED light bulbs embedded into the surface, creating colorful images such as butterflies, fish and waterfalls." Project partner Thomas Properties believe the $1.2 billion Wilshire Grand Project would reflect what a "world class city" Los Angeles is.
However, those opposed to the light installation say "the signage will create light pollution and set a bad precedent for other parts of the city," and point to the planned commercial imagery for the lower floors, comparing the project to the digital billboards around the city.
The project was first introduced in 2009, and has been making its way through the city's red tape since. Late last year, the development team said the construction would bring 12,000 jobs to Los Angeles, and revitalize Downtown.
If approved, the buildings will open in 2015 and 2017, with the hotel opening first.
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