Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has selected the global infrastructure firm AECOM to aid in the city's long-term recovery plans following the recent wildfires that swept through the Pacific Palisades. The company, known for its work in infrastructure planning and design, is expanding its role in what is being dubbed the fastest recovery effort in California's modern history, according to a statement obtained by the Mayor's office.
In a move to expedite the process of rebuilding homes and restoring infrastructure, Mayor Bass emphasized the need for an all-inclusive approach involving government, the private sector, and the community. "An unprecedented natural disaster requires an unprecedented, all-hands-on-deck response – all levels of government, philanthropy, the private sector and educational institutions coming together to support the community and rebuild as quickly and safely as possible," Mayor Bass said. AECOM's expertise is expected to further speed up the overwhelmingly complex task of reconstruction.
The firm's involvement will notably include the development of a comprehensive master rebuilding plan that actively incorporates community input. AECOM will also work on an infrastructure reconstruction plan, tackling utilities, logistics for materials management in collaboration with local stakeholders, and a master traffic plan designed to handle the increased construction activity, the Mayor's office reports.
Collaboration appears to be a key factor in the city's rebuild strategy; AECOM is set to work closely with City officials and Hagerty Consulting, which has focused on debris removal and immediate disaster support post-wildfires. "AECOM’s expertise in long-term infrastructure planning and design will only further expedite our work to get families home," Bass added, consolidating the firm's role in crafting a rebuilding plan that aims to be minimally disruptive for residents and business owners amid the construction surge in the Pacific Palisades.
