The Echo Park Historical Society has serious concerns about the proposal to redevelop the Taix restaurant site, based on the most recent renderings and project description presented to the Los Angeles Department of City Planning.

The development proposal unveiled last week is substantially different from what was shared previously in briefings with members of our board. Furthermore, the EPHS has not endorsed any of the concepts for the site.

The latest proposal is far short of respecting and referencing the historic character and scale of Echo Park. It is unacceptable.

The EPHS is opposed to the current concept for the Taix site. Our organization, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting the neighborhood’s historic and cultural heritage, would like to see substantial changes to the design of the project and its relationship with surrounding buildings and vistas.

Our organization is not opposed to development and recognizes the need for housing. We welcome innovative contemporary architectural design. But these goals can be achieved in a way that is sensitive to the neighborhood, allowing for the creation of new and beloved landmarks.

The EPHS and other neighborhood groups and organizations deserve a greater voice in shaping this project, which is planned on a critical stretch of Echo Park’s business district.

In addition, the EPHS supports efforts to nominate the Taix site as a Historic-Cultural Monument. Our organization looks forward to working with our neighbors, the developer, Councilman Mitch O’Farrell and other organizations in creating a project that respects the past of Echo Park while preparing for its future.

— Echo Park Historical Society Board of Directors