Cynthia Cobb and her husband sought a home with a view when they moved to Lake Hollywood in 2017. They were drawn to the dramatic scenery of the Hollywood sign. Initially, they had minimal concerns as only a few tourists visited the nearby park occasionally. Traffic was manageable, with locals primarily frequenting the area for dog walks. However, the situation changed dramatically after the pandemic.
Cobb, a counselor at Hollywood High School, noticed an influx of tourists. These visitors often blocked her driveway and ignored parking regulations. Some even littered cigarette butts, despite fire risks, causing significant frustration.
Cobb recalls, “It’s not just about the tourists. It’s about feeling unsafe and unheard.”
Legal Action from Residents
On a recent Monday, Cobb joined neighbors in filing a legal complaint against the city of Los Angeles. The complaint named Mayor Karen Bass and Councilmember Nithya Raman, demanding resolution of the nuisance caused by crowds.
The residents allege that a decision made 15 years ago by a councilman to clear brush near their homes created a viewing spot, drawing tourists and igniting ongoing issues. Attorney Ilan Wurman represents roughly 100 residents from Hollywoodland, Lake Hollywood Estates, and Hollywood Knolls. According to Wurman, years of attempts to negotiate have failed.
Wurman states, “Residents have lived in this condition for over a decade, seeking a peaceful solution.”
The Ongoing Debate
Access to the Hollywood sign has long been a contentious issue. Unlike many tourist spots in LA, it doesn’t accept visitors directly, leading to disputes about street access and hiking paths. Some tourists feel locals make it difficult to reach the sign for photos.
An image included in the lawsuit highlights the problem with a bag of cigarette butts collected near Lake Hollywood Park. The complaint emphasizes how the city’s actions in 2011, such as brush clearing at 3100 Canyon Lake Drive, have exacerbated the situation by encouraging tourism.
City’s Response and Residents’ Concerns
In response, Bass’s office noted LAPD’s increased traffic enforcement during peak congestion. Councilmember Raman’s office, while refraining from commenting on active litigation, expressed understanding of residents’ frustrations.
Raman’s office revealed additional police presence has been funded since May. There’s a proposed traffic plan to address congestion before the 2028 Olympics.
Despite these measures, streets near the Hollywood sign remain clogged, prompting safety concerns. Cobb recalls how a simple grocery trip on holiday weekends can extend to 45 minutes due to traffic.
Wurman highlighted parallels with other cities, suggesting potential solutions. “Implementing restrictions akin to Paris around the Eiffel Tower might help,” he suggested. Residents seek an injunction to prompt city action, hoping for resolved nuisance conditions.
Cobb emphasizes, “Tourists often knock, requesting to use our restrooms. Installing public facilities might ease this burden.”
Ultimately, Cobb and her neighbors hope for a safer, quieter neighborhood. They believe a court ruling could drive necessary changes.