Neighborhood Plan

Jan Breidenbach (Commentary, March 21) correctly points out the need for affordable housing in Los Angeles. Yet new construction alone will not sufficiently revitalize our communities. Our neighborhoods also need child care, jobs and safety. That is why Mayor Richard Riordan is proposing a comprehensive neighborhood plan that balances a number of worthy priorities.

Riordan has proposed an innovative new approach called the Targeted Communities Initiative, which provides funds for housing, child care and other neighborhood needs. Instead of dictating precisely how each neighborhood spends the money, the plan empowers residents and other stakeholders to participate in decisions that affect them directly.

Housing is indeed an important issue. At the same time, we must see to it that our children have adequate child care, and we must focus on creating jobs that will provide opportunity for the future.

SHARON MORRIS