Lack of Shade in Los Angeles: A Hot Button Issue

Los Angeles is facing a shade problem, with unequal distribution of shade and limited access to shade in public spaces. Shade is crucial for human comfort and protection, especially in hot, arid environments like Los Angeles. The city's design, focusing on wide sidewalks and green spaces in wealthier neighborhoods, leads to unequal shade distribution. Lack of density and anti-density sentiments deter the creation of shaded public spaces. Additionally, redevelopment and the dominance of cars in the city have resulted in the removal of shade-providing trees. Efforts to address the issue, such as installing shade structures at bus stops, face challenges due to regulations, ADA compliance, and lack of coordination among different agencies. Although critics expressed disappointment with the design of Las Ambrita, a shade structure installed in Los Angeles, any shade is seen as an improvement considering the magnitude of the shade problem in the city.