Jeff Bezos donates $10 million-plus to Los Angeles that the city’s mayor says: Is about investing in culture of …
Jeff Bezos-backed Earth Fund has donated $10.1 million to revamp Watts Towers Arts Center Campus in Los Angeles. The investment was secured through a partnership with the Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust (LANLT) and is expected to help transform the campus ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. For those unaware, the Bezos Earth Fund was established in 2020 after Jeff Bezos pledged $10 billion to support climate and nature projects worldwide. The latest investment is part of the fund’s broader efforts to support environmental sustainability, public spaces and community resilience. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass welcomed the investment, calling it a major milestone for the project.“This is about investing in the people of Watts and creating a space the community can be proud of,” Bass said. She added: “This announcement marks a major milestone for a project years in the making.” The funding completes funding for more than $22 million in improvements that advance Mayor Bass’ commitment to expanding green space, strengthening climate resilience and investing in historically underserved communities.
Bezos Earth Fund investment to expand green spaces in Los Angeles
According to the City of Los Angeles, the project will add more than 30,000 square feet of usable park space at the Watts Towers Arts Center Campus. The revitalized campus will add more than 30,000 square feet of usable park space, introduce new shade and cooling features, incorporate climate-resilient landscaping and create new opportunities for arts, recreation and community gathering.As announced by Bass, the revitalized campus will include:
- Expanded green space with new shade features and climate-resilient landscaping
- New recreational and gathering spaces,including walking paths, seating areas and interactive art elements
- Enhanced arts and cultural spaces to expand educational programming, performances and community engagement
- Improved public amenities, including LED lighting, drinking fountains, bike racks and additional site improvements
The project is being managed by the Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust in partnership with several city departments and community organisations. Officials said the revitalized campus is expected to strengthen the Watts Towers Arts Center as a cultural hub for artists, young people and local residents before the 2028 Olympics.
