User Experience Design
Connect Inglewood
In collaboration with LA-Tech.org and BMW Designworks, we were asked to develop and propose a multimodal mobility hub in four different areas throughout Los Angeles. My team worked and researched the city of Inglewood, with the goal of creating a safer, more convenient model of travel for Inglewood residents that also benefits the local economy.
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Overview
Phase One
Phase Two
Takeaways
Overview
Inglewood is one of the most culturally and racially diverse communities in Los Angeles, with an abundance of small businesses, which show what makes Los Angeles special.Following the recent construction of world-class stadiums in the center, many may see this as a victory. While this may bring in millions of visitors annually , residents face overwhelming traffic congestion, safety concerns, and unsustainable rent hikes. Local businesses are forced to shut their doors early due to the lack of foot traffic and rising costs in the area.
The harsh truth is those millions of visitors never get a chance to truly experience Inglewood due to traffic congestion. That’s money and opportunity bypassing Inglewood entirely. With the Olympic Welcoming Ceremony set to take place at SoFi in 2028, the problem is only set to intensify.
Our team conducted both field and desktop research. Utilizing public transportation systems around Inglewood allowed us to better understand the city's needs and achievments on a personal level.
While buses do run through the city and multiple train lines connect to Inglewood’s major destinations (such as Metro’s K Line), users were concerned about safety and cleanliness while in transit.
Because stadium events caused heavy traffic, many local businesses are forced to shut their doors early, resulting in major financial losses. Moreover, commercial real estate rent rose over 78% following the announcement of SoFi Stadium’s presence.
Proposed Location
Our hub is based off of Market Street, in the heart of Inglewood. This would connect directly to the Metro K Line’s Downtown Inglewood stop, and would also provide micro-mobility options such as bicycles and scooters.
Amenities
Located next to Inglewood High School, City Hall, Inglewood Public Library and an employment center, this lot has been unused for a few years now, with plans for construction often being scrapped. Our main site is also a 15 minute walk to Inglewood’s major stadiums and an even shorter bicycle ride.
We will not just provide other modes of transportation, but chances to explore the city outside the stadiums and community activation.
Community Activation
To encourage more foot traffic and city exploration, Connect Inglewood will team up with local businesses for sponsorships and events, such as game nights and bar crawls. Local residents can post upcoming events on a community bulletin board for maximum reach.
Located next a high school, city hall, library, and park, we will be able to link locals with community resources and opportunities for making connections.
Transit Options
Multiple transportation options are readily available, including bicycles and scooter rentals. These can be dropped off at micro-mobility hubs around the city and stadiums.
Shuttles directly to the stadiums will be provided; these shuttles will have stops both around and in the stadium lots for convenience. We will partner with the stadiums themselves to offer discounted shuttle rides or bicycles to eventgoers.
Takeaways
Working with a team as well as communicating with C-level clients taught me patience, collaboration and time management. Problem solving was another big aspect, as our designs had to follow specific guidelines to ensure we met all guidelines set by both CSUN and our individual clients. Following the launch of our sites, CSUN has continued to establish their rebrand and maintain a welcoming, friendly presence for prospective students.
Next Steps
Following the launch of Center for Southern California Studies, I would like to continue learning about and managing website accessibility. I would also like to continue directing user feedback as more people begin to use this website and look into site improvements.