Shootings Prompt Councilman’s Motion

Because of increased gang activity at San Fernando Gardens, Los Angeles City Councilman Richard Alarcon introduced a motion Friday to explore security options at the public housing apartment complex.

The motion comes after a recent increase in gang-related shootings by nonresidents driving through the complex, authorities said.

In one week in March two boys were injured in separate drive-by shootings at the apartment complex.

Alarcon’s motion is the latest effort by residents and city officials to prevent gang violence in Pacoima, especially the area around Hubert Humphrey Park and San Fernando Gardens.

Members of the apartments’ residents association have asked the Housing Authority to improve security, including closing one entrance permanently, changing Pala Avenue and Carl Street into one-way streets, and installing a guard house at the entrance on Lehigh Avenue.

“Hopefully, these measures will help keep the residents safe,” Alarcon said.

The motion directs several city departments, including the Department of Transportation and the Los Angeles Police Department, to examine options and report back to the Housing Authority, Community Redevelopment Committee and Transportation Committee in 30 days.