K-Town landmarks hope to begin summer construction

March 19, 2015
Plans for the Olympic Gateway in Koreatown, Los Angeles

Plans for the Olympic Gateway in Koreatown, Los Angeles

By Park Ju-yeon

The Olympic Gateway, a long-projected landmark for Los Angeles’ Koreatown, as well as the Madang project at Da Wool Jung, are expected to begin construction as soon as mid-May.

The projects were approved for contract extension last year by city’s Designated Local Authority and are expected to cost about $2.8 million.

The Korean American Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles and the Korean American United Foundation are working with Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative, a community revitalization organization, to receive an R-permit from the city to build the projects.

Lee Chang-yeob, head of development, said both projects are awaiting permits, after which construction companies will be found to begin building, he said.

Madang project at Da Wool Jung in Los Angeles' Koreatown.

Madang project at Da Wool Jung in Los Angeles’ Koreatown.

The Gateway will be installed as an arch at Olympic Blvd. and Normandie Ave. next to the Korean Pavilion, Da Wool Jung. The landmark, the design of which was taken on by John Friedman and Alice Kimm Architects, is expected to cost about $1.24 million.

The Madang project, to be located just outside the pavilion, is a plan for a public park for the community. SQLA Inc. will oversee the project with hopes of showcasing traditional Korean beauty in nature.

6 Comments

  1. Edward

    March 19, 2015 at 2:23 PM

    I would like to see stuff like this built OUTSIDE of Herb Wesson’s district.

  2. Camlio Silva

    March 20, 2015 at 2:56 PM

    Really like the idea but unfortunately it’s hardly a public park when it has a fence around it and discourages usage from the community. The small park it pretty and well kept but sadly it will sit behind a fence and wall.

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