Why Highland Park’s Community Bandshell is Deserted

In all competitive markets, prices are determined by the infallible law of supply and demand. Why some sectors of the government appear to reject that economic model of price determination—even in this day and age—is as baffling as it’s arguably bird-brained.

The Sousa-Hiner Bandshell at Sycamore Grove Park in Highland Park is the perfect example of a public amenity that could be used a lot more productively and beneficially—but isn’t because of flawed pricing.

According to the Eastsider L.A., when the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council wanted to rent the bandshell to screen outdoor movies for the community this summer, the council was told by the Department of Recreation and Parks, which runs the bandshell, that they would have to pay as much as $400 for renting the place for the first two hours, $75 for every subsequent hour, plus $75 for reservation and $50 for an electrical connection.

Little wonder the HHPNC decided to screen the movies elsewhere—especially after being told by Rec & Parks that the department was absolutely resolute about its rates.

So, no prizes for guessing why the neighborhood’s historic bandshell, which is located in a community park that's almost always bustling on weekends on holidays, has remained pretty much unused at least since 2010, when Rec & Parks reportedly increased its fees dramatically.

Click here to read the full Eastsider story about why Highland Park’s community bandshell is shrouded in silence.