Friday, November 2, 2012

Blogging Social Difference in LA: Week 5

I drove home this past weekend, from Los Angeles to Camarillo, CA. It's amazing how different these two places can be, even though the distance between them is relatively small. Camarillo is a small suburban area north of Los Angeles, and is known for its proximity to agricultural lands and the beach.

Similar to what we learned in lecture about the 4th Urban Revolution, I believe Camarillo began to develop rapidly and expand as mobility and transportation did as well. The entire county was predominantly farmland in the past, but has developed into a desirable area for those who are retired or commuting to Los Angeles. With the decentralization and transformation of the concentric ring model, homes became the new focus and center - with transportation and communication allowing for all other necessities. The development of suburbs such as Camarillo, allowed for outward expansion of the population and the possibility of living further away from the city. Those who desire homes in the suburbs can escape the noise, night life, bus systems, unsafe areas, traffic, and overall city living.

However, this made me realize that suburban areas are exclusive in terms of geographic differences discussed in class. Physical access is limited to those without cars or mobility (there is no public transportation available) and many neighborhoods are restricted by gated access as well. In social differences, the city consists of middle to upper class white families or retired couples - and may make others feel unwelcome or out of place. It's strange that areas of Los Angeles can be so restrictive and consist of upscale living in the city, yet there is also this same effect in the suburbs for those who want a more peaceful lifestyle. Unless one chooses to live in the absolute middle of no where (not a suburb or areas near cities/jobs) or live in the outskirts/cheaper areas of a large city, it seems that there is no place that is affordable and welcoming. It appears to be impossible to create a new model for the patterns of society..

Las Posas Road, Camarillo CA - Sunday 12pm
(large roads, no pedestrians, little traffic, landscaping)

No comments:

Post a Comment