Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger today joined County leaders and community partners to break ground on a $63.7 million restoration of Baldwin Lake and Tule Pond at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, marking a major milestone in a project more than a decade in the making. The restoration will improve water quality, enhance wildlife habitat, strengthen flood resilience, and preserve the ecological and historic character of one of Southern California’s most treasured landscapes.
“This $63.7 million investment will protect a place that is part of the identity of the San Gabriel Valley and ensure it thrives for generations to come,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “We are investing in cleaner water, greater flood resilience, environmental restoration, and the long-term future of the Arboretum. After years of careful planning and partnership, today we are turning that commitment into action.”
Baldwin Lake serves as the ecological and cultural heart of the Arboretum, supporting resident and migratory bird species and sustaining biodiversity within the San Gabriel Valley. The restoration project will return the lake to its historic depth while improving its water quality and habitat for wildlife.
“Baldwin Lake’s value extends far beyond the Arboretum,” said Norma E. García-González, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. “It is a critical refuge for wildlife in our highly urbanized region, providing essential habitat and an important stopover for migratory birds traveling along the Pacific Flyway. LA County Parks is proud to help preserve this vital natural resource for generations to come.”
The County’s $63.7 million construction investment brings together several funding sources: $8 million from the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, $8.5 million from the Safe Clean Water Regional Program, $46.2 million from the Safe Clean Water District Program, and $1 million from the Regional Park and Open Space District’s Proposition A Program.
“This project will restore a critical center point of community and connection for wildlife and people,” said Su Oh, Chief Executive Officer, Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. “The restoration represents over a decade of work. We’re excited for the restored Baldwin Lake to serve as one of the primary draws for the LA28 Olympic Games.”
The groundbreaking represents the culmination of years of planning, coordination, community advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. Supervisor Barger credited Los Angeles County Public Works, the Department of Parks and Recreation, the Arboretum, and its partners for working together to advance the project.
“Restoring Baldwin Lake and Tule Pond is an important investment in the long-term health and resilience of the Arboretum. Under Supervisor Barger’s leadership, LA County Public Works is proud to partner with the Arboretum, Parks and Recreation, and the community to improve water quality, expand stormwater capture, and protect these historic water bodies for generations to come,” said Mark Pestrella, Director of Los Angeles County Public Works.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, when Los Angeles County will welcome visitors from across the country and around the world. The restoration will ensure the Arboretum—already one of the County’s most treasured destinations—is positioned to shine as the region takes the world stage.
“The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation understands the immense value of Baldwin Lake to the landscape and surrounding areas,” stated Justin Hutchings, President, Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to County of Los Angeles Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger, LA County Parks and Recreation Director Norma E. García-González, LA County Public Works Director Mark Pestrella, and our partners at Ames Construction and Studio MLA for their leadership on this project.”
The project reflects a broader County effort to make public infrastructure more resilient while delivering lasting environmental and community benefits.