The Los Angeles City Council voted Friday to approve the Playa Vista development’s second and final phase, over the objections of environmental groups and the local councilman.
The vote was 12-2 with Councilman Bill Rosendahl, who represents the area, and Councilman Paul Koretz saying no to further development that opponents say represents a "gift of entitlements" that would be 40 times what city rules allow. Opponents have said the project should include more green space.
Phase 2, known as the Village, will add 2,600 homes, a shopping center, office buildings and parks to the community between the Westchester bluffs and Marina del Rey. Hundreds of Playa Vista residents showed up at City Hall wearing green lapel stickers stating "The Village yes!" Residents have been eager for a grocery store and other amenities that they hope will be part of the new development.
The council initially voted to approve Phase 2 in 2004, but opponents sued, saying the environmental analysis was flawed. Some opponents have vowed to continue their legal fight.
Rosendahl said that despite his admiration for the Playa Vista community and its parks, he voted no to honor a pledge he had made to opponents when he ran for a council seat.
— David Zahniser and Martha Groves