Urbanism
Signal Hill, California: A Historic Enclave Surrounded by Long Beach
“Discover the rich history of Signal Hill, California—an enclave surrounded by Long Beach—known for its oil discovery and vibrant residential-commercial areas.”
Last Updated on June 3, 2024 by Daily News Staff
Signal Hill, a small city nestled within the boundaries of Long Beach, California, has a rich and fascinating history. Named after the hill that stands 365 feet above the surrounding area, Signal Hill played a significant role for the local Tongva Indians, who used it as a vantage point for signal fires visible for miles around, even reaching Catalina Island.
During the Spanish rule of Alta California, Signal Hill became part of the Rancho San Pedro land grant, covering an extensive area of over 74,000 acres. The Rancho San Pedro was one of the first, and largest, private land grants made in Southern California. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the region gained prominence in the entertainment industry. Balboa Amusement Producing Company, later known as Balboa Studios, utilized Signal Hill’s picturesque landscapes for outdoor movie locations. Legends like Buster Keaton and Fatty Arbuckle graced the hills with their performances. This era signified the golden age of cinema, with Signal Hill becoming a favorite backdrop for many silent film productions.
However, Signal Hill’s destiny changed forever with the discovery of oil. In 1921, the Royal Dutch Shell’s Alamitos #1 well erupted, turning Signal Hill into part of the renowned Long Beach Oil Field. The hill became covered in over 100 oil derricks, earning it the nickname “Porcupine Hill.” This discovery of black gold not only transformed the landscape but also attracted a wave of speculators and workers, fueling economic growth and development.
Throughout the 20th century, Signal Hill thrived due to its oil wealth. The community built infrastructure and grew in population, transforming from a remote, rugged area into a developed city. Despite the vast changes, Signal Hill remains an active oil field to this day, with a few wells and derricks still standing as a testament to its storied past. Alongside its industrial endeavors, Signal Hill now boasts parks, residential areas, and thriving local businesses, maintaining a balance between preserving its historical heritage and embracing modernity. As visitors climb the hill, they are greeted not only by historical markers and panoramic views but also by a community that has continuously adapted and evolved through the decades.
Signal Hill’s incorporation as a city on April 22, 1924, was driven by a desire to maintain independence from Long Beach, avoiding annexation and its associated regulations and taxes. Notably, the city made history by electing Mrs. Jessie Nelson as its first mayor, making her California’s first female mayor.
Today, Signal Hill is a vibrant blend of residential and commercial areas. Its unique location surrounded by Long Beach adds to its appeal, offering residents and visitors a distinct sense of community and an opportunity to explore the city’s rich history while enjoying the amenities of the larger metropolitan area.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signal_Hill,_California#
https://www.cityofsignalhill.org/
https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism
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The Dodger Gondola Project: A High-Flying Transit Idea Facing Heavy Headwinds
The Dodger Gondola Project, a proposed aerial transit line between Union Station and Dodger Stadium, faces major political, legal, and community opposition in 2025. Here’s where the controversial project stands now.
Dodger Gondola Project Faces Major Setbacks as L.A. Leaders and Residents Push Back
For years, the Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit (LA ART) — better known as the Dodger Gondola Project — has been pitched as a bold, futuristic connection between Union Station and Dodger Stadium, whisking riders above traffic in a six-minute aerial trip. Supporters call it L.A.’s chance to build a cleaner, faster, iconic transit link. But as 2025 winds toward its close, the project faces more turbulence than ever.
A Quick Refresher: What the Gondola Would Be
The proposed gondola line would travel about 1.2 miles, with stations at Union Station, a stop near L.A. State Historic Park, and Dodger Stadium. Private backers connected to former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt have promoted it as a zero-emission way to move more than 5,000 passengers per hour on game days — and potentially daily for tourists, residents, and park visitors.
Why the Dream Is Stalling
In November 2025, the Los Angeles City Council voted 12–1 to formally oppose the project, urging Metro to abandon it. While the vote isn’t legally binding, it signaled a major political shift. Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, who introduced the resolution, cited environmental and community concerns — especially the impact on Chinatown, Solano Canyon, and L.A. State Historic Park.
A California Court of Appeals ruling earlier in the year also struck down Metro’s original environmental review, forcing a supplemental EIR that reopened debates about tree removal, tower placement, noise, and neighborhood impacts. The city has additionally ordered a comprehensive traffic study, pausing key permits until it’s complete.
Communities Speak Out
Local opposition has been strong and well-organized. Residents warn the gondola would remove mature trees, alter the character of the State Historic Park, and intrude over communities that have already shouldered decades of infrastructure burdens. Advocacy groups say the project favors private interests over public need, pointing to the lack of a clear long-term funding or maintenance plan.
Not Dead — But Deeply Uncertain
Despite mounting challenges, the gondola isn’t entirely grounded. Metro is still reviewing public comments on the supplemental environmental report, and state lawmakers are debating legislation that could streamline some project requirements. Whether those efforts succeed — or whether political pressure ultimately stalls the gondola indefinitely — remains to be seen.
The Big Picture
The Dodger Gondola Project sits at the intersection of transit innovation, environmental justice, and the future of Los Angeles mobility. For supporters, it represents a chance to modernize travel to one of the nation’s most visited stadiums. For opponents, it’s an unnecessary experiment that risks community space and public resources.
Either way, the next year will be pivotal — and L.A.’s debate over the gondola is far from over.
Sources and links for further information
Associated Press: “Los Angeles officials seek to halt proposed Dodger Stadium gondola” — apnews.com
Los Angeles Times: “Los Angeles City Council votes 12-1 to urge Metro to halt Dodgers gondola project” — latimes.com
NBC Los Angeles: “Dodger Stadium gondola should be a no-go, LA City Council says” — nbclosangeles.com
PR Newswire (project press release): “LA ART Gondola Project Takes Next Step Forward … with Release of Draft Supplemental Environmental Report” — prnewswire.com
LAist: “Controversial Dodger Stadium gondola project gets new environmental report. Here’s how you can weigh in” — laist.com
Official Metro page: “Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit (LA ART)” — metro.net
Site for public comment: “Stop The Gondola – Public Comment” — stopthegondola.org
CEQA Notice of Availability: “Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report – LA ART Project” — ceqanet.lci.ca.gov
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Urbanism
Celebrating World Urbanism Day: Building Livable Communities
World Urbanism Day: Celebrating livable communities and the role of urban planning. #WorldUrbanismDay Celebrating World Urbanism Day
Last Updated on November 7, 2025 by Rod Washington
Celebrating World Urbanism Day
On November 8th, we commemorate World Urbanism Day, a moment to acknowledge and advocate for the significance of urban planning in shaping livable communities. Also known as World Town Planning Day, this occasion highlights the interaction between inhabitants and their built environments in urban areas.
Urban planning focuses on creating healthy and vibrant communities that offer a high quality of life. By ensuring orderly development and preserving the economy and environment, planners strive to enhance the well-being of residents. The key elements of a livable city include plentiful opportunities for a high quality of life, diverse housing options, accessible public transportation, ample green spaces, and essential amenities like schools, grocery stores, and recreational facilities.
Cities such as Osaka, Tokyo, and Zurich exemplify healthy and livable communities, while Tripoli, Algiers, and Lagos face challenges in this regard. It is essential for us to engage in urban planning discussions, attend local council meetings, and explore ways to improve our communities. Let’s celebrate World Urbanism Day by spreading awareness, connecting with public health networks, and championing the creation of livable cities through #WorldUrbanismDay.
Check out our articles about urbanism: https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/
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Watts Towers: A Landmark of Art, History, and Resilience in Los Angeles
Discover the Watts Towers in Los Angeles, a National Historic Landmark built by Sabato Rodia. Learn about their history, cultural impact, and significance in art, film, and literature.”
Last Updated on September 12, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Watts Towers. (2023, August 13). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watts_Towers
Watts Towers: A Landmark of Art, History, and Resilience in Los Angeles
The Watts Towers in Los Angeles are one of the most remarkable examples of outsider art in the United States. Built singlehandedly by Italian immigrant Sabato (Simon) Rodia over a span of 33 years (1921–1954), the towers stand as a testament to perseverance, creativity, and cultural expression.
Rodia, working without formal training or blueprints, constructed 17 interconnected towers and sculptural structures, the tallest reaching 99.5 feet. Using steel, mortar, and found objects such as glass, tile, pottery shards, and seashells, he created a visionary masterpiece that has since become an iconic symbol of Los Angeles art and heritage.
Recognition and Historic Significance
The Watts Towers are more than an architectural wonder—they are a recognized cultural landmark:
National Historic Landmark (1990)
California Historical Landmark
Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places as one of only nine folk art sites in Los Angeles
Their enduring legacy highlights the resilience of both Rodia’s vision and the Watts community, which fought to preserve the towers when demolition was once proposed.
Influence on Culture, Film, and Literature
The influence of the Watts Towers extends far beyond architecture. They have been celebrated and referenced across multiple art forms:
In music, legendary jazz musician Charles Mingus mentioned them in his autobiography.
In literature, they appear in Don DeLillo’s novel Underworld.
On film, the towers have been featured in iconic movies such as La La Land and Ricochet.
These references reflect the towers’ place in both local identity and global culture.
Community and Public Space
The site is also home to the Watts Towers Crescent Greenway, a 0.2-mile rail-with-trail pedestrian and bike path. This space allows visitors to experience the towers while enjoying outdoor recreation, blending community engagement with cultural preservation.
Why the Watts Towers Matter
The Watts Towers are more than sculptures—they are a story of human determination, creativity, and cultural pride. They remind us that art can rise from unlikely places and stand the test of time, inspiring generations.
Watts Towers. (2023, August 13). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watts_Towers
Explore More About South Los Angeles
For those interested in learning more about the rich history of South Los Angeles, we recommend checking out The South LA Recap by Eric Craig on YouTube. The channel dives into fascinating hidden details of the region’s past and offers valuable insights into the cultural landscape surrounding the Watts Towers.
You can also visit Eric Craig’s website for additional resources: South LA Recap
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
At STM Daily News, we’re passionate about uncovering the stories that shaped Los Angeles. Visit our YouTube channelto explore more history, culture, and hidden gems of the city—from landmarks like the Watts Towers to the people and events that defined LA’s past. Subscribe today and discover the history of Los Angeles, one story at a time. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEhXBupt8tVyhnfS344AWOC6s7sDNHHKG
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