Transformations in Inglewood: A Community in Flux

Over five decades ago, Alena Cindy Giardina purchased a home in Inglewood’s Morningside Park. At that time, the neighborhood was vibrant, with Hollywood Park offering a bustling racetrack and the Forum frequently hosting major events, including Lakers games nearby.

In the past ten years, Giardina has observed significant changes in her community. The Metro line expanded, Hollywood Park evolved into a shopping center, and SoFi Stadium has brought major events to the area. Plans for a luxury hotel and apartment complexes are underway as well.

Having served as a Parks and Recreation commissioner and on the City Council, Giardina discussed with me how she witnessed Inglewood on the brink of becoming a flourishing community.

“The city was on the verge of becoming a fabulous community,” she mentioned during one of our conversations.

These changes in Inglewood are evident during any weekend filled with significant events. Recently, Hollywood Park hosted the 19th annual Hard Summer music festival with tens of thousands attending. The Kia Forum also hosted concerts coinciding with this festival, while SoFi prepared for more events, including FIFA World Cup games.

Inglewood’s residents now share their space with numerous visitors during these events.

Adapting to Major Events

Living in Inglewood today means dealing with road closures, congestion, parking difficulties, and loud noise. Both residents and the city have had to adjust.

The first day of the Hard festival exemplified these challenges. Many people were guided through closed streets in Hollywood Park. Cars stretched a mile past SoFi Stadium, while street closures extended beyond the city.

Chandra Richardson, living in Inglewood for five years, checks events daily before making plans. “The only time I get stuck is when I need to be on Century Boulevard, which I avoid,” Richardson commented.

Parking near events can cost over $100. New rules enforce two-hour parking or tow-away zones to reserve spaces for residents. A curfew now limits noise from the venues at night.

Christyn Carter, residing in Morningside Park, said, “Concert noise affects sleep for me and my kids.” Richardson copes differently, noting triple-paned windows help, though sometimes she welcomes the crowd noise.

Benefits of New Developments

At quieter times, recent changes bring advantages to the area. On a weekday evening at Hollywood Park, residents utilized the Iconix for workouts; teens gathered at Cane’s, and others socialized at the Meeting Spot. Families enjoyed the new spaces.

Claudine Cooper, a fitness instructor at Iconix, believes Hollywood Park’s development benefits residents. She has been in Inglewood for 26 years.

“I’ve seen the growth positively impact the community,” Cooper shared.

For Cindy Giardina, the crowds and growth are positive signs of progress. “I’m proud to be part of this melting pot,” she expressed. “People from all walks of life come together.”

Rising Costs

Not everyone embraces the changes. The Lennox-Inglewood Tenants Union protested the construction of SoFi Stadium. In 2016, Inglewood was an affordable place to buy homes. By 2021, home prices had risen by 84%.

Inglewood’s transformation is both a boon and a challenge for residents, shaping the community in numerous ways.