Los Angeles, CA – Today, the U.S. Department of the Interior awarded $254.68 million into projects for redevelopment of local parks, of which $15 million will be invested into the Puente Hills Regional Park on the site of the former Puente Hills Landfill. The announcement is applauded by Supervisor Solis as she has led the effort to transform what was once the largest landfill in the United States into a vibrant green public space in the San Gabriel Valley.

“This $15 million grant is a tremendous step forward in my ongoing mission to achieve greater environmental justice and equity for communities in the San Gabriel Valley.

I grew up in unincorporated La Puente, not too far from the Puente Hills Landfill, and I can still remember garbage trucks driving through our streets – leaving a stench throughout my neighborhood. To that end, I vowed to do everything I could to close the landfill and one day, restore its lands. As a State Assemblymember, I authored legislation to convert the landfill into a public park to improve access to green spaces and clean air in the San Gabriel Valley. In a full circle moment in 2016, I partnered with the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, the region’s Sanitation Districts, and former Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe to cement the creation of the Puente Hills Landfill Park Master Plan, which was unanimously approved by the Board of Supervisors.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Secretary Deb Haaland for their unwavering support of the Interior Department’s investment towards enhancing our natural landscapes and ensuring equitable access to green spaces for all communities. I also acknowledge Governor Gavin Newsom for his commitment to this environmental justice project, providing crucial funding to Los Angeles County. This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of federal, state, and local partnerships in addressing the needs of our communities and fostering sustainable development. Together, we are creating a legacy of environmental stewardship and inclusivity that will benefit generations to come. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to making California a healthier, more equitable place for everyone.”

Once completed, the future regional park will provide 142 acres of new public parkland and will be Los Angeles County’s first new regional park in more than 35 years, offering recreational, educational, workforce, and cultural opportunities to a new generation of Angelenos.