Blogging Social Difference in L.A. : Week 8

      This week I decided to visit my original hometown of Pacoima. Pacoima is one of the neighboring cities to my current home in San Fernando. The streets that I visited were along Terra Bella and eventually along San Fernando Blvd.. The area has several elementary schools along with middle schools. The population is primarily Hispanic, and you can tell it is by shop signs that are advertised Spanish. Growing up i never ran into any trouble and my neighborhood was often quiet. However, the city had its ups and downs.
      One part of the city that runs along San Fernando Blvd. is exposed to various environmental concerns. As you can see from the picture below (which I found on the internet for better quality purposes) an airport, railroad, and several factories are only a cross street away from residential homes. The people who live in these homes must withstand issues such as extreme noise and some partial smells.

      This environmental issue can relate to David Harvey's article on environmental damage. Evidently damage to the city is not the issue here, but it is interesting to see that these large industries are placed in a more low-income setting in contrast to a wealthier neighborhood. The people that are living in these areas might not have another choice, due to income and class issues. This issue points out the social difference and inequality that occurs between class. Harvey also points out that the standard view of environmental management is often concerned with economic growth, "end of pipe" solutions, and there must be a clear injury and clear responsible party for any damage. This view restricts the residents from voicing concerns on issues with the development of the city. 

      Pacoima residents seem to live on and even set up businesses along San Fernando Blvd. Prices are most likely lower and the people who live around the area are willing to deal with the consequences. The area where i lived could hardly hear much noise, but i still recall the distant sound of a train as I would go to bed. The ecological modernization view urges prevention and a decrease in economic activity that causes damage to the environment. With some government aid I feel some areas of Pacoima might improve their living conditions, but when I lived there for seventeen years I rarely saw any initiative taken. Perhaps one day when I become an city planner I can make a difference.