Meet KPA’s Xavier Sibaja

We’d like to introduce Xavier Sibaja, Project Manager for Katherine Padilla & Associates.

KPA’s Xavier Sibaja supporting the Metro Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project.

Xavier connects with a community member for the Metro LA River Path project.

Which have been your most memorable projects with KPA and why?

I am torn between the LA River Path and the Sepulveda Transit Corridor. Both are projects that can be presented to the stakeholders as “here and now” and when explained, the usual reaction is “about time.” As I considered myself an die-hard urbanite, all projects highly impacting metropolitan areas get me juiced up. These projects are game-changers in the way people will move and recreate in Los Angeles County.

How about some favorite projects prior to your work with KPA?

There is a project that comes to mind as it was initiated by the community. The Tweedy Mile Revitalization Initiative in South Gate was a push from the commercial corridor merchants which achieved City funding to enhance all facades along this commercial corridor, its landscaping and street furniture. What was very satisfactory is that the merchants agreed to be regulated through the Main Street Revitalization Model to come up with sensible design guidelines, and that it only took three years to give a fresh look to the commercial corridor.

Could you please share with us a favorite inspirational quote?

“Plus Ultra” or there is another world out there.

How do you like to spend your time when you’re not working?

I am addicted to world and national news, so I read several newspapers and watch video vlogs such as “visual politics.” I usually meet with friends to argue about issues I read about. I also enjoy theatre performances and visiting museums.

Any fun facts about yourself that you’d like to share?

Recently I started writing a monthly column for Bocado Latino, a digital publication focused on Latino cuisine and spirits. Alternating subjects El Postre are family anecdotes on celebrating with food while El Café depicts the “watering holes” where rebellious artists and political leaders shook the society they lived in.