Innovative Approach

In an article (April 2) and subsequent letters, the merits and advantages of Leimert Park were generously extolled. My father, Walter Leimert, developed the area in the middle ‘20s, giving an entire block to the city.

Leimert Park was probably the first community on the West Coast to merge under one project various developments . . . single-family homes, apartments and business. Really an innovation at the time.

The homeowner association and building restrictions encouraged proper design, implemented and maintained abundant tree planting (before the city had a park department) and set the tone for community involvement. Illustrious architects were encouraged to design model homes for the middle class. Life magazine called Leimert Park the “City of the Future.”

As a young man in the ‘40s, I participated in the latter stages of the development. I am delighted that today Leimert Park is once again experiencing recognition as truly a lovely place in which to reside and shop.

WALTER H. LEIMERT JR.

Los Angeles