Improvements proposed to Lytton Plaza

"The Friends of Palo Alto Parks plans to take action next year to increase the plaza's popularity. The goal is to get more people to eat lunch and host more concerts, said Jeny Smith, president of the Friends of the Palo Alto Parks board. Recently, the plaza hosted a Christmas tree lighting event, and many residents attended with hot chocolate in hand, Smith said."

"Two men passed out at the same time at the plaza in 2023 after taking opioids. Resident Jean Paul Coupal said in a previous interview with the Post that Lytton Plaza had become a "drug haven." The board is in the early stages of planning, but has expressed interest in upgrading benches and tables and making the parking lot less visible to enhance the plaza's aesthetic appeal, Friends of Palo Alto Parks board member Roger Smith said."

"No official plans have been made yet, but the board will be discussing it further next year, Jeny Smith said. The plaza was redone in 2009 after looking essentially the same since it was developed in the 1960s by the Lytton Savings and Loan company, whose offices were across the street. It was eventually acquired by the city and became the site of historic protests against the Vietnam War as well as a space for concerts, poetry readings"

A nonprofit plans to revamp Lytton Plaza to increase popularity and attract more lunchtime visitors and concerts. The organization aims to replicate the high attendance seen at a recent Christmas tree lighting event. City Council expressed concern that drug dealing at the plaza negatively affects the community. Two people passed out at the plaza in 2023 after taking opioids, and residents have described the area as a drug haven. Early proposals include upgrading benches and tables, reducing parking visibility, and adding a children's play space. No official plans exist yet; further discussions are planned for next year. The plaza was redeveloped in 2009 and has roots in the 1960s.

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