As housing prices increase and gentrification hits the Boyle Heights neighborhood – with rents, in some cases, rising by as much as 80 percent in one year – we asked people who live and work in Boyle Heights how they’re being affected.

Some said they’re hurting while others said change is inevitable and local leaders are trying to do the best they can for the people they serve.

“Ami si me afecta porque el dueño está vendiendo la propiedad donde vivo para hacer nuevo condominios.”

“For me, I am being affected because the owner of where I am living is going to sell our apartments to build newer condominiums.”

-Guadalupe Quintero, Boyle Heights resident

“Right now, I don’t have a job. I’m currently applying to jobs because I need to work now to pay my rent

and provide for my five kids.”

-Martina Pena, Boyle Heights resident

“Life is about change: Some changes are good, some are bad. As long as we keep the changes in perspective while still looking out for the common people, then we are doing our job.”

-Officer Teddy Silva, 31 years in law enforcement, including 12 in Boyle Heights