LOS ANGELES-Apartment developers here and across the US hope Bush Administration or Congress will intervene before new tax is slapped on Canadian lumber next week. The 19% increase is expected to be followed by an even bigger hike later this year.

LOS ANGELES-The law firm of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips inks 12-year deal to dramatically expand the space it occupies at Trident Center. It's the latest sign the Westside may be rebounding after a difficult first half.

LOS ANGELES-The nonprofit Trust for Public Land gets option from developer to purchase another 20% of the 1,087-acre Westside project. The 193 acres are currently targeted for 4,400 homes and 220,000 sf of commercial space.

LOS ANGELES-Two of the mortgage banker's biggest deals are in the South Bay, but the firm says business is brisk across the Southland.

LOS ANGELES-The nonprofit Trust for Public Land gets option from developer to purchase another 20% of the 1,087-acre Westside project. The 193 acres are currently targeted for 4,400 homes and 220,000 sf of commercial space.

BURBANK, CA-The Florida-based chain signs 15-year, $1.8-million lease to open 10,405-sf eatery in new Burbank Empire Shopping Center.

SIGNAL HILL, CA-Privately held F&B Properties buys 74,453-sf Walnut Avenue Business Park from advisory giant Rreef. Sale price works out to a 9.3% cap rate.

LOS ANGELES-Two big transactions in past 48 hours show how investor interest in the sprawling Valley market has climbed, especially in the newer Warner Center area. Overlooked by many during the dot-com boom, its diversified tenant base is now paying dividends.