If you were home on New Years Day, you might have seen the Lowriders cruising up and down Land Park Drive and Riverside Blvd. They were there for the annual New Year’s Day event in the William Land Park panhandle.
Neighbors who love the old Chevys, Impalas and other fabulous cars, may look forward to walking around and enjoying the day. Other neighbors might be weary of the noise and bad behaviors following the event. Problems that continue into the evening when the official car clubs have already left.
We want the community to know we’ve been addressing this. Kristina Rogers, LPCA President has been in communication with the Majestic’s car club leaders who host this annual event. The relationship has been going on for three years “behind the scenes.” The Majestics contacted LPCA to collaborate because they were aware of neighbors’ complaints and wanted to discuss solutions.
New processes have been implemented by the Lowrider clubs to ensure the event is better managed. For instance, in all Lowrider NYD communications attendees are told to behave respectfully. The Majestics, Lay N Low and Family First members stay late after the event to pick up trash, leaving the area spotless. These are positive improvements. The organizers’ goal is to continue to improve the event. For instance, there have been discussions about ensuring cars keep their music low until at least 8am, if not later.
Some oversight is managed by the clubs, but a solid partnership with the City would make a difference. The City Parks department has been engaged yet City leaders have not paid attention. And that missing piece has contributed to the problems. Yes, it’s the holiday season where offices are closed, but the city runs 24/7. This January 1st event shouldn’t be a surprise. It will continue to occur. There are opportunities to pre-plan for optimum success. We hope the new City Council sees the value of their involvement.
It’s important to know the Lowrider culture is not an “outside entity” although many do come from outside Sacramento to participate. Lowriders are Land Park homeowners and generational residents who work hard so their children can enjoy the quality-of-life Land Park offers. It’s also valuable to consider classic car enthusiasts have always been part of our community. In the past, the LPCA has partnered with the California Auto Museum where several residents volunteer.
Land Park’s goal should be to support the best every culture has to offer and integrate it in a way that works for the community. Diversity isn’t something we need to create, it’s already here.
For those who are unhappy with this event, remember change is inevitable but it doesn’t happen overnight. The Land Park neighborhood can remain a charming, family-style community as it evolves. It takes pro-active neighbors ready to show up and participate to move things in a positive direction. We are an all-volunteer neighborhood association and as active as those who join our efforts.
The LPCA encourages neighbors from all cultures to reach out. If you are unsure about what this looks like, review our Mission Statement. People are encouraged to attend a community meeting and contact us at communications@landpark.org .