Proposed Center Must Show ‘Indelible Image’

Re “Plan for an L.A. Times Square to Get Key Airing,” Sept. 3: In weighing the benefits and hazards of a $75-million subsidy for the proposed complex at Staples Center, the City Council ought to primarily consider whether the quality of the design of this billion-dollar effort assures success. The concept of imitating Times Square at the far southwest corner of downtown is questionable, and with the Third Street Promenade, City Walk, Old Town and so many other venues factored into the competitive mix, do we really need another carnival attraction? Will local residents want to return, again and again?

If public funds are to be used, then our representatives should ask exactly what this development will truly stand for. It seems to me that such an undertaking ought to aspire to far more than generating another Friday-night zoo. It ought to be a representative place as well as symbolize all of our aspirations, a lodestone for our future. It should present an indelible image to the entire world--this place and time. Calling Frank Gehry!

John Crandell

Westwood