Broxton Plaza: A Strategy for Community Revitalization in Westwood

This study evaluates the impacts of pedestrianizing a segment of Broxton Avenue in Westwood Village, Los Angeles. Broxton Plaza was developed as a through-block pedestrian plaza to promote walkability, support local businesses, and revitalize Westwood’s identity as a pedestrian-oriented college town, especially in lieu of the upcoming Metro D Line, and 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.For this research, a variety of methods were used including surveys, interviews, counts, and field observations between January 2025 to May 2025. The analysis focused on the plaza’s impacts on pedestrian activity, business engagement, traffic and delivery logistics, design and accessibility, transit and traffic patterns, event programming, and overall community perception.Key findings include strong support for the plaza with survey respondents rating its impact on Westwood an average of 4.45 out of 5, which indicates a highly positive perception of its contribution to the neighborhood. There is a significant increase in foot traffic and observed families. The community feedback highlighted the need for more seating, shade, signage, seasonal decorations, sidewalk improvements for wheelchair users, public art, a loading zone or rideshare location, and public restrooms on event days. Businesses and community members called for stronger events programming, marketing, and UCLA engagement. There is also a need to consider long-term impacts like reducing vacancies, and the potential displacement of smaller businesses. An “Entertainment Zone” under SB969 is also under consideration as a promising activation tool that allows monitored outdoor drinking.Recommendations are grouped into policy reform, design improvements, community programming, business support, and marketing strategies, including the planned northward expansion of the plaza ahead of the 2028 Olympic/Paralympic Games. Broxton Plaza represents a critical step towards a more walkable and community-focused Westwood Village. With continued investment, responsible governance, and collaboration with UCLA and Westwood organizations, the plaza has major potential to become a model for pedestrian-first urban revitalization in Los Angeles.