Mayor Bass, Local Leaders Announce Nearly $100 Million in Proposed Funding for Improvements to Exposition Park Ahead of Major Events

“Los Angeles is about to enter the most intensive – and exciting – three year period of major sporting events that any city in the world has ever experienced, and these investments will ensure that Angelenos continue to benefit from these events for decades to come,” said Mayor Bass. “I want to thank all of our state and federal partners and the Exposition Park leadership for recognizing and investing in the need to provide a welcoming and accessible experience for fans from around the world.” 

The historic investment comes as Exposition Park prepares to welcome the world with the upcoming major events, as well as the planned openings of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art and the Endeavor Space Shuttle exhibit at the California Science Center. The funding would come from Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed state budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, which allocates $96.5 million for critical improvements and maintenance to Exposition Park. An additional $1 million in federal funding was secured by Representative Kamlager-Dove.

“These upgrades to Expo Park are essential as we welcome the world for the Olympics and Paralympics and World Cup,” said California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “Just as important, these upgrades also improve the safety and usability of the Park for Angelenos who need it to get outdoors. We’re proud of these proposed improvements and unique partnerships that are making Expo Park a truly world-class urban destination.”

“I was proud to secure over $1 million in federal funding for my old stomping grounds, Exposition Park,” said Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “Investing in Expo Park as we prepare to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games is a win for LA and for America. This funding will help to not only create a welcoming and safe environment at Exposition Park for visitors, but also benefit our community for years to come.”

“These valuable state and federal investments will advance our efforts to transform Exposition Park into a premier global destination,” said Andrea Ambriz, General Manager of Exposition Park. We are building upon our history and  creating a safe, accessible, and modern Park ready to host the world. Over 300 jobs will  be created, and I’m proud that our Park will be built through the hands of local  community workers. Exposition Park is the backyard of Los Angeles, and will be ready  to be the front yard to the world by 2028.” 

“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Governor Newsom and his continued leadership to support all Californians, and, through this investment, strengthen the backbone of our economy--our workforce from the surrounding community,” said Courtni Pugh, Chair of the Board of Directors for Exposition Park and California Science Center. 

“This is a significant investment for job creation in South Los Angeles,” said Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Coalition for Responsible Community Development. “It’s important that community members have an opportunity to benefit from legacy investments and create a sense of pride and ownership of their contributions to the transformation of Exposition Park. I’m proud to support projects that provide equity and access to family sustaining  careers that have a lasting impact.”

SOURCE: https://mayor.lacity.gov/news/mayor-bass-local-leaders-announce-nearly-100-million-proposed-funding-improvements-exposition