Universal Studios Expansion

Still questioning the rationale behind the ongoing battle between Universal Studios and neighbors regarding Universal’s proposed expansion? One need only read your article about Universal’s purchase of homes adjacent to Universal (“Universal Studios Buying Parcels,” Oct. 20) to understand why Universal lacks credibility in the community.

Starting with resistance to implementing some much-needed noise and traffic mitigations in the area, the latest revelation about Universal buying homes closest to its property under company names meant to disguise Universal as the owner is disturbing at best. Executive housing? Who’s kidding whom? These business practices seriously call into question not only the common sense of Universal executives but the intentions of the Seagrams-owned corporation. Do they really want to be a good neighbor?

As the Universal expansion project enters a critical final phase, it’s time to stop this silly gamesmanship. Universal needs to come clean once and for all with details of their expansion plan, accept responsibility for necessary traffic and noise mitigations and agree to a balanced growth plan and ongoing community oversight of their project. In return, the community will continue its commitment to the success of Universal Studios as a solid part of the economic backbone of the community and support efforts to obtain quick project approval.

TONY LUCENTE, President

Studio City Residents Assn.