What if we could step back in time to when Westwood Park was just a vision? This vibrant park nestled in the heart of Los Angeles wasn’t always a community hub. Its story is intertwined with the development of Westwood itself.
Westwood’s early days trace back to 1919. Arthur Letts acquired a vast ranch. This 3000-acre property became the foundation for Westwood. After Letts’ death, his son-in-law Harold Janss took over. Janss Investment Company began developing the area in 1922.
UCLA’s arrival in 1929 was a turning point. The Janss brothers sold 375 acres to Los Angeles, Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. This land became the UCLA campus. Around the same time, Westwood Village emerged. Janss Investment Company created this shopping district. It was designed to serve both residents and the university community.
Westwood Village aimed for a unique blend. Pedestrian-friendly design met automobile accessibility. Wide sidewalks and landscaping were priorities. The Janss Dome was the first building constructed. It housed the Janss Investment Company headquarters.
In 1924, the City of Los Angeles announced a Major Traffic Street Plan. 10th Street transformed into Olympic Boulevard by 1938. This commemorated LA’s hosting of the 1932 Olympics. The neighborhood changed after Olympic Blvd split it. Residents south of Olympic Blvd sought their identity. Rancho Park emerged as a distinct community.
Sepulveda Boulevard became a key route. It stretched over 40 miles. Francisco Sepulveda inspired the name. He was an early resident of Los Angeles. In 1935, four-lane Sepulveda Blvd opened. It provided a crucial north-south passage.
National Boulevard connected Los Angeles and Santa Monica. Military Avenue branched off toward the Soldier’s Home. The Los Angeles Times praised the scenic views along this route.
The Janss legacy is deeply embedded in Westwood. Their company’s stamp marks sidewalks. Janss Steps grace the UCLA campus. The Janss company building stands as a Village landmark. Patricia Avenue is named after one of the Janss’ daughters.
In the 1950s, Arnold Kirkeby redeveloped Westwood Village. It boomed into a successful commercial center. The seeds of Westwood Park were sown amidst this growth. Today Westwood Park continues to serve the community. It stands as a testament to the vision and planning that shaped Westwood.