Photos: ‘Urban acupuncture’ to foster street life and a sense of community

A man walks past Laras Home Shop and Flowers on Gaffey Street.  (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

L.A. plans to add bike racks, plazas, crosswalk upgrades and other amenities aimed at drawing in pedestrians and attracting new businesses.  (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Anderson Roy, 28, rides his bike past Emilio’s Custom Framing on the 5600 block of West Pico Boulevard.   (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Patrons walk along North Figueroa Street near North Avenue 58. Mayor Eric Garcetti has named the 15 sections of the boulevard that will be part of his Great Streets Program.   (Jabin Botsford / Los Angeles Times)

The mayor hopes that more street side amenities will help reduce traffic along Los Angeles’ congested streets.  (Jabin Botsford / Los Angeles Times)

A man walks past the large windows of Paper or Plastik Cafe on West Pico Boulevard. Such street side cafes are part of the mayor’s vision to transform the city’s thoroughfares.  (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Mary Gianatasio, 31, enjoys coffee at Paper or Plastik Cafe on West Pico Boulevard.   (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Tattoo parlors, liquor stores, and fast food along Gaffey Street, in San Pedro. The crowded area is part of Mayor Eric Garcetti’s plan to overhaul 15 city streets.   (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)