01/26/2026 | Press release | Archived content
LOS ANGELES, CA - Today, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) joined local leaders at Exposition Park to announce nearly $100 million in state and federal funding proposed to future-proof the Park ahead of major global attractions and events.
The proposed state investment of $96.5 million and an additional $1.04 million secured in federal funding implements critical renovations, infrastructure improvements, public safety upgrades, and other projects necessary to meet the upcoming surge in park visitors and expand accessibility.
Rep. Kamlager-Dove secured the federal funding through a community project funding request to H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, which was signed into law on January 23, 2026. The state investment was announced as a part of Governor Newsom's proposed state budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
"I was proud to secure over $1 million in federal funding for my old stomping grounds, Exposition Park. 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," said Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove.
"These valuable state and federal investments will advance our efforts to transform Exposition Park into a premier global destination. 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," said Andrea Ambriz, General Manager of
Exposition Park.
"These upgrades to Expo Park are essential as we welcome the world for the Olympics and Paralympics and World Cup. 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," said California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot.
"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. 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," said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
"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. 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." said Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Coalition for Responsible Community Development.
The historic investment comes as Exposition Park prepares to host the world. Already a top tourist destination with millions of annual visitors, Exposition Park will welcome millions more with the LA 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the FIFA 2026 Summer World Cup Fan Festival, and the planned openings of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art and the Endeavor Space Shuttle at the California Science Center.
About Exposition Park
Exposition Park is one of California's most visited destinations and valuable open, green spaces in the Los Angeles area. The 160-acre urban park is recognized for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and sports, entertainment, and art institutions. Exposition Park is home to nine notable institutions, including two state museums-the California African American Museum and the California Science Center; the Los Angeles City Park and Recreation EXPO Center and historic Rose Garden, the Alexander Science Center (LAUSD) School, the BMO (LAFC) Stadium, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum, and the upcoming Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. For more information, visit https://expositionpark.ca.gov/.
# # #