Local News in Brief : Face-Lift Planned for Business District

Beverly Hills is planning a $20-million-plus refurbishing of the city’s business district to compete with nearby shopping centers including Century City and the Beverly Center.

The project envisions scored concrete sidewalks with granite bands, old-fashioned street lamps and flower planters throughout the triangle-shaped business district between Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards.

The design is also intended to link the business triangle with shops and restaurants on South Beverly Drive.

The City Council is expected to consider financing and design details for the project early next year.