Jeff Lee, president of Lee Homes, talks with Noreen McClendon of Concerned Citizens of South Central Los Angeles at the development site in the Watts. The developer and community group believe the new homes are vital to rejuvenating one of Los Angeles’ most impoverished neighborhoods. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Elmar Morris, 63, of Watts surveys the development going up in his neighborhood. “It’s nice,” he said. “They are cleaning the area up and building houses. I remember when there was nothing here.” (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
A man guides his wheelchair down Santa Ana Boulevard North, across the street from the new development. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Luis Marin smooths the foundation on one of the 44 homes being built in Watts. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
