Koreatown, one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant and densely populated neighborhoods, has long struggled with a lack of green space. Residents have had few opportunities to relax, play, and connect in parks, but that’s about to change.
The Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch Library, a neighborhood cornerstone since its opening in 1989, is undergoing a significant transformation. The library’s surface parking lot, a 26,000-square-foot expanse of asphalt, will soon become a lush 0.60-acre pocket park designed to breathe life and greenery into the area.
From Parking Lot to Paradise
At the heart of this innovative project is the reimagining of land use. The current parking lot, which accommodates 79 vehicles, will be replaced with an underground garage offering 50 spaces. This design frees up valuable land above ground for the new park, which promises to become a hub for recreation and relaxation.
The park, designed by JFAK Architects, will feature amenities for all age groups:
-A playground for children.
-A fitness area for exercise enthusiasts.
-A walking loop, shaded benches, and tables for leisurely activities.
-An event space for cultural gatherings and performances.
-Lush landscaping to beautify the area and provide shade.
The library itself will also undergo upgrades, including a modernized façade and a new entrance canopy, creating a seamless integration with its green surroundings.
Sustainability in Urban Design
Beyond its social benefits, the project exemplifies sustainable urban planning. By replacing asphalt with greenery, the park will help reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and create habitats for local wildlife. The underground parking garage maximizes land use while minimizing environmental impact, blending practicality with ecological consciousness.
Funding and Timeline
With a total budget of $26.6 million, the initiative has strong financial support from the city. In May 2024, the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks allocated an additional $3.4 million to ensure the project’s completion.
Construction is expected to take 18 months, with the park scheduled to open by mid-2025. While the library will remain operational throughout the construction, visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or nearby street parking as the new underground garage takes shape.
A Green Future for Koreatown
The Pio Pico Library Pocket Park is more than just an upgrade; it represents a vision of what Koreatown can become. It offers a place where residents can come together, enjoy pockets of tranquility amidst urban density, and embrace a greener future.
By reclaiming an asphalt lot and transforming it into a vibrant community space, Los Angeles continues its commitment to serving its people and improving the quality of urban life.
<Student Reporter Lauren Lee>laurenlee0808@gmail.com
Lauren Lee is a Senior student in The Science Academy STEM Magnet
