The Region - News from April 29, 1986

A $6-million Los Angeles city grant was approved by the Community Redevelopment Agency Commission to help overhaul downtown Pershing Square, a project expected to cost $15 million to $18 million. Wayne Ratkovich, chairman of the Pershing Square Management Assn., said the grant is a “strong impetus” for a private fund-raising campaign expected to begin in the fall. Business officials hope to raise more than $4 million from corporate and large private donors. Several million more dollars are anticipated from the city’s parks and public works departments as well as through “grass roots” fund raising. A preliminary plan calls for restaurants, performance areas, a large greenhouse, botanical landscaping and improved security--all by 1989. Critics say the plan is too commercial and may force out the poor.