By the early 1990s it was labeled as a "war zone" and was dominated by drug activity and violence. In 1996 the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles implemented a $1.7-million project in which a decorative wrought-iron fence and 11-foot-high wall were built around the complex to decrease crime and gang activity. After its completion, Avalon Gardens became a gated community, and crime and gang violence decreased.
By the early 1990s it was designated as a "high-risk" area and was plagued by drug-related violence. In 1996, the Housing Authority of Los Angeles launched a $1.7-million initiative to install a secure perimeter around Avalon Gardens, comprising a decorative iron fence and wall, with the goal of curbing crime and gang activity.