LA Rises initiative to support Los Angeles recovery after wildfires

0
428

California Construction News staff writer

LA Rises, a new initiative, is expected to speed up the recovery and rebuilding of Los Angeles following the region’s wildfires. The initiative, led by Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, business leader Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman, brings together private-sector resources to support city, county, and state recovery efforts.

To kick off the initiative, the Mark Walter Family Foundation and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, both led by Walter, have committed up to $100 million. Additional funds will be raised through private donations to support the recovery of communities impacted by the fires, including Altadena, Pasadena, and Pacific Palisades.

“Los Angeles will rise again — stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever,” Newsom said. “With Mark, Earvin, and Casey’s leadership, we’ll tap into the resources of the private sector and work alongside local, state, and federal efforts to rebuild a city that benefits all Angelenos.”

LA Rises will complement the recovery plans of local and state governments by bringing in private-sector resources and innovative funding strategies to help communities rebuild more efficiently.

Mark Walter, Chairman of the Los Angeles Dodgers, said the initiative is an opportunity for collective action. “The LA fires have devastated neighborhoods. It’s time for those who can help to come forward and make a positive impact in rebuilding better.”

Earvin “Magic” Johnson echoed the call for action, saying, “We’re bringing together the best resources and biggest hearts across California to ensure every Angeleno has the chance to rebuild and thrive.”

Wasserman, a lifelong Angeleno, added, “LA Rises will channel the creativity, resources, and generosity of the private sector to rebuild our city and pave the way for a stronger future.”

Local leaders support LA Rises

Local leaders are working on recovery plans, with the state coordinating resources and collaborating with the federal government to streamline the recovery process. LA Rises aims to bridge gaps by unlocking additional capital and providing innovative solutions for faster recovery.

Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, welcomed the initiative. “Given the scale of the damage caused by the Eaton wildfire, initiatives like LA Rises will complement local recovery efforts, especially for marginalized communities in Altadena.”

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also expressed support. “Recovery efforts are already underway, and LA Rises will be a key part of the strategy to bring Angelenos home,” she said. “I appreciate Governor Newsom’s ongoing partnership during this difficult time.”

How LA Rises will work

LA Rises will drive recovery through a variety of strategies, including:

  • Fundraising and Private Capital Access: Raising additional resources from private donors to accelerate rebuilding.
  • Financing Solutions: Developing strategies to close the funding gap between available resources and the cost of rebuilding.
  • Collaborations with Organizations: Partnering with other philanthropic and community organizations to maximize impact.
  • Unified Communication: Providing Angelenos with accurate, timely information on recovery progress and available resources.

In addition to the financial commitments from Walter’s foundations, LA Rises will partner with California Rises, a statewide recovery initiative founded by Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom after the 2018 Camp Fire. The initiative, which partners with the California Fire Foundation, supports fire-impacted communities and first responders.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

I accept the Privacy Policy