After the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development rejected Los Angeles Trade Tech’s application to become a Promise Zone, U.S. Rep. Karen Bass said she was disappointed because the downtown school’s application was unique.

“It was the only application submitted by a community college,” said Ms. Bass (D-Culver City-Los Angeles) in a joint statement with Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-Los Angeles).

“If Trade Tech’s application had been accepted, it would have brought substantial economic benefits to an area with a 12 percent unemployment rate and an aggregate poverty rate nearing 50 percent.

“We commend City Councilman Curren Price and Trade Tech President Larry Frank for their leadership in submitting this superb application.

“They put together a strong coalition of partners, including area businesses and nonprofits, Mayor Garcetti, the City Council, and County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas.

“As the two members of Congress who represent the South L.A. area seeking Promise Zone status, we were proud to partner with them.

“Our coalition represents South Los Angeles at its very best. We are committed to continuing our work to improve South L.A. despite HUD’s decision today.

“As members of Congress, we will keep fighting to ensure that South Los Angeles receives the federal resources it deserves.

“We have also invited HUD Secretary Julián Castro to join us for a tour of South L.A.

“We want him to talk with South L.A. business owners, community leaders, local and state government officials about how HUD can help address the community’s economic challenges.”

Ms. McCruiston may be contacted at on aonya@mail.house.gov