Thanks for watching Viewpoints, created by the Santa Monica Daily Press and Vumanity Media.
We created Viewpoints with the intention of making a show that cuts through jargon, politics and special interests. It will always be rooted in local issues, and feature local residents who are knowledgeable and present different opinions.
The timing for our show is critical. Residents have been bombarded with misinformation. Getting around town has become increasingly difficult. Santa Monica is thriving economically, while there are dozens of development projects in the pipeline. How much is enough? How much more is needed? Does more development make Santa Monica a better place?
Today's episode discusses the largest collection of parcels up for redevelopment, called the Bergamot Area, 140-acres bordered by Cloverfield and Exposition boulevards, Colorado and Centinela avenues.
It will add new streets with bike lanes and wider sidewalks, more commercial development including office and retail, and housing. It will be home to the first stop of the Exposition Light Rail Line in Santa Monica, coming from Culver City. There is no public park currently in the plan, however, a developer, Hines Corp., is proposing some public open space as part of their Bergamot Transit Village project, which will replace the old Paper Mate building at Stewart Street and Olympic Boulevard.
Viewpoints is a work in progress. We encourage feedback to help make it a better show. Please share it with friends.
Big thanks to Santa Monica resident Jeff Geoffray, who has helped us tremendously with his decades of experience and amazing technology.
Viewpoints is a show that expresses the opinions of our guests. Opinions expressed are those of the talent and do not necessarily reflect those of the Santa Monica Daily Press, or the Daily Press Editorial staff. Guest commentary, feedback and ideas for future shows are encouraged, as are letters to the editor.
