You often have to hear “no” quite a few times before you find the right “yes.” Lynn Capouya knows this lesson better than most. When she founded her landscape architecture firm Lynn Capouya, Inc. (LCI) in 1979, she relentlessly called prime contractors about opportunities and potential needs for woman-owned business participation. Lynn was fortunate to have accomplished Los Angeles architect and advocate Robert A. Kennard as a mentor. He gave Lynn a list of firms to introduce her firm to and pursue for future projects. After enough calls, Lynn connected with Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and has since worked on several projects with them at LAX, Ontario, Van Nuys and Palmdale airports.
Certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), LCI has also recently completed work for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project. During this project, Lynn learned about upcoming opportunities at the LAWA Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP), including the APM. Her past relationships and extensive experience led to an invitation to join the LINXS team to work on landscape master planning and irrigation design.
On the project, LCI has also worked with the LINXS Certified Firm Technical Advisor (CFTA). The CFTA is a resource accessible to all certified firms on the project and is able to assist with contracts, payments, marketing or any other areas a firm may need additional support. “The LINXS CFTA [Martha Valenzuela] has been very helpful in facilitating the resolution of various project related issues our team has encountered,” Lynn said of the experience. “They have been very diplomatic in their approach fostering communication, then following up to ensure completion.”
Lynn earned her degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Arizona before moving to Los Angeles. She is originally from Alabama, but visited family in the area throughout her childhood. Her memories of the city often involve transportation—whether fondly recalling Blue Bus trips to the beach or embarrassing recollections of going the wrong direction on the 405 Freeway—so it seems only fitting that Lynn’s company is involved with so many major public transportation projects in the city.
While the complexity and coordination of the project can be challenging at times, Lynn’s work is also incredibly fulfilling. The most rewarding moment so far? When the Master Landscape Plan that LCI helped design was approved by LAWA, setting a landscaping vision for the future of the development.
That was a “yes” worth waiting for.
Lynn Capouya Inc.
