Riordan Meets With Foes of Universal Studios Expansion

Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan met Tuesday for the first time with two dozen representatives of homeowner groups who oppose Universal Studios’ proposed $2-billion, 25-year expansion plan but refused to take a position on the project.

After a closed-door meeting at the Lakeside Golf Club in Toluca Lake, Riordan said that much of the debate about the project boils down to “a balance between quality jobs and [protecting] the quality of life.�

Universal Studios wants to double the size of its facility by adding 5.9 million square feet of theme park attractions, resort hotels and studio and office space, in addition to 6.3 million square feet of parking. The company estimates the expansion will generate 13,000 jobs.