A two-acre vacant lot near Los Angeles City Hall is set to become an 'El Corazón Art Park' leased by AltaMed Health Services for $175,000 through 2027.

The project, which includes an art gallery, 30 boxed trees, and a health center, has faced backlash from residents and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU 721).Critics argue the deal was negotiated behind closed doors, bypassing long-promised public park plans.

AltaMed, a nonprofit health provider, claims the temporary park will offer free cultural programming and align with its mission to address healthcare disparities.However, opponents like the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council accuse the city of failing to prioritize community input.

SEIU 721 disputes the project's environmental review process and questions AltaMed's plans for long-term use, including a 20-foot digital billboard.The city's Parks Department approved the lease in May, but concerns remain about transparency and the site's future.The project highlights tensions between private development and public interest in urban planning.