Meet Your Neighbor, Greg Stangl
By Lynda Martin Lawley
Greg Stangl is a South Park resident with a passion for the vibrant community he inhabits. We sat down with him to talk about his own experience in South Park, and what he loves most.
What drew you to live and work in South Park?
I was working in the Arts District in 2004 and had the opportunity to explore the urban landscape of DTLA. My primary goal was to ‘be part of something exciting before it took off’ and South Park had intriguing promise. About the time L.A. LIVE was coming online, I purchased a unit at the Grand Lofts…one of the two residential buildings in the District.
What are a few of your most interesting memories of the ‘early’ South Park community?
When the market took a down turn in the mid 2000s, a group of South Park residents and parents founded the renowned Metro Charter School in South Park. After that accomplishment, FIDM plugged in and gave parent’s another compelling reason why it’s a great, safe place to raise their children. Ralph’s grocery store coming to South Park was a high risk venture, at the time. The resident’s embraced this store providing results that shattered corporate projections. This store ranks in the top 10% nationally, paving the way for the more recent Whole Foods chain.
What ‘insider tips’ would you share with people not as familiar with South Park?
There are 2 hidden gems, in my opinion:
1) The BID is an invaluable resource for new homeowners or businesses to quickly understand the logistics and lifestyle vibe of this District. Their commitment to providing transparency and safeguarding this community is vital.
2) The Metro transportation line is excellent. It allows easy access to other areas of Downtown, to Ktown, to Santa Monica beach.
What excites you most about the identity and future growth of South Park?
South Park has been created by a whole community, which is organically taking shape by people who live and work there. It is a safe, clean, walkable area, with easy in and out. The support of the South Park BID, to accommodate the needs of this unique neighborhood has positioned nicely for rapid growth for both residential and retail.
If you could only spend 4 hours in South Park, what would you do?
I’d walk to PRANK for a craft cocktail and small plates outside, while enjoying the lively people watching. I’d walk a few blocks to view the mega high rise construction projects, such as Oceanwide and Circa, near Staples. I’d ride a Metro Bike to Metropolis, the Wilshire Grand and circle back to the historic Desmond building, now headquarters for AEG.
Greg Stangl is a Realtor with Pacific Union International and a 14 year resident of South Park. To contact Greg or learn more about him, click here.
Special thanks to Lynda Martin-Lawley! Lynda is a leadership consultant with a passion for Downtown. She specializes in guidance for entrepreneurial start-ups and companies growing to the next level. For a complimentary consultation, contact her at (800) 614–4509.
