City To Study Ways To Improve Access To Hollywood Sign

HOLLYWOOD, CA – A Los Angeles City Council committee moved to have the city study ways to improve safety, traffic and tourist access to the iconic Hollywood Sign Wednesday, which would include a recommendation of replicating it on the other side of the mountain.

The members of the Arts, Entertainment, Parks and River Committee did not weigh in with any opinions on a new report that contains ideas for the landmark attraction, but did approve a motion that would direct city staff to report on the feasibility of implementing the report's ideas, along with opinions on the most beneficial, economical and highest priority strategies.

Dixon Resources Unlimited, a transportation consulting firm, conducted a comprehensive analysis on how to enhance the visitor experience at the Hollywood Sign, and to address problems created in the surrounding neighborhoods by the thousands of visitors who flock to the area each year.

Councilman David Ryu, who represents the Griffith Park area, said he has not taken any positions on the recommendations in the study.

"I believe that every detail and each impact needs to be carefully studied to create a very comprehensive solution," Ryu said.

The study's 29 recommendations include smaller proposals, such as additional bathrooms and sidewalk improvements, alongside larger ones, including the replication of the sign on another side of the mountain, the creation of an aerial tram and a visitor center, and an alternative access plan at the Beachwood Drive gate that was closed last year as the result of a lawsuit.

City News Service contributed to this report; Photo: LOS ANGELES - MARCH 29: The Hollywood Sign is seen high above drying vegetation in Griffith Park on March 29, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. A record-breaking series of unusual heat waves this month makes this the first March to have had six days with highs in the 90s or above in Los Angeles since at least 1877 when record-keeping began. Temperatures have averaged 10 degrees above normal almost every day and very little rain has fallen as a fourth year of extreme drought continues to worsen in California. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)