<p>mdcissp:
In the last years there’s been a lot of revitalization in the downtown area with the rehabilitation of many of the older buildings into loft style living units. I think bringing in a population of urban residents has and will continue to give various downtown areas new life and some “gentrification” (these loft units are pricey), and with this influx there has been a necessary support system of shopping, groceries, cafes etc.
LA in the past was very much mostly a business/offices area with surrounding seedy areas, and therefore dead during weekends and evenings (which ofcourse may attract crime).
Urban planners and developers have perceived this need to attract residents and this is gradually happening, and appears successful given the ongoing renovation of buildings and sales in the area.</p>