RELEASE: Representatives Friedman, Larsen Tour LA River Restoration Project

Above: Friedman and Larsen discussing parts of the LA River Restoration Project. 

LOS ANGELES, CA — U.S. Representatives Laura Friedman (CA-30) led a congressional tour with Rick Larsen (WA-02), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, of the LA River Restoration Project. This investment will turn miles of neglected riverbed into parks, trails, and green space for park-poor communities while improving water quality and flood resilience.   

The project is receiving tens of millions in federal investments which lowers the financial burden on local taxpayers while delivering long-term environmental and economic benefits. But Trump’s proposed budget cuts threaten projects like this, putting environmental restoration and community investment at risk. 

"The LA River Restoration Project is turning a neglected waterway into parks and green space for communities that have gone without them for too long. It will improve water quality, restore ecosystems, and create new places for Angelenos to walk, bike, and connect with nature. This isn’t just an environmental win — it’s about making our city healthier, more livable, and more resilient for generations to come,” said U.S. Representative Laura Friedman (CA-30). “Trump’s proposed cuts to federal investments threaten projects like this — undermining efforts to improve our communities, restore ecosystems, protect wildlife, and build more resilient infrastructure. I won't let short-sighted political games stand in the way of a healthier, more sustainable future.” 

The LA River Restoration Project will: 

• Create new parks and green space for communities that have long lacked recreational access 
• Improve water quality by restoring natural filtration systems 
• Enhance flood control to better protect surrounding neighborhoods 
• Restore native habitats and support biodiversity along the river 
• Expand walking and biking trails to connect neighborhoods and promote outdoor activity 

Friedman was joined by Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Infrastructure and Investment, LA City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez, LA Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure Randall Winston, LA River Revitalization Coordinator Michael Affeldt, as well as other staff from the LA Department of Transportation, Los Angeles Bureau of Engineering, and more. 

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