Palisades Rebuilding: AECOM & LA Mayor Bass
- Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced Friday that AECOM, a global infrastructure firm, will assist in the Pacific Palisades fire recovery effort.
- AECOM will work alongside the city and Hagerty Consulting, which Bass appointed as a recovery contractor in February.
- In January, Hagerty, AECOM, and a third firm presented their proposals to Bass and city officials.
AECOM, a global infrastructure leader, joins forces with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to spearhead the Pacific Palisades fire recovery. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in rebuilding the area after a devastating fire five months ago. AECOM will craft a master plan centered on reconstructing vital infrastructure and streamlining logistics,helping families return home quicker. the project involves coordinating public and private rebuilding efforts, including thorough logistics and traffic management strategies. This move, potentially signaling a shift in recovery strategy, follows earlier discussions and criticism regarding the initial contractor. With AECOM’s proven expertise, including their role as the official venue infrastructure partner for the 2028 Olympic games, the city aims for a swift and safe recovery, as reported by News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for the Pacific Palisades.
AECOM to Help With Pacific Palisades Fire Recovery Plan
Updated June 7, 2025
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced Friday that AECOM, a global infrastructure firm, will assist in the Pacific Palisades fire recovery effort. The company will develop a master plan for rebuilding the area and reconstructing utilities after the devastating fire five months ago.
AECOM will work alongside the city and Hagerty Consulting, which Bass appointed as a recovery contractor in February. Hagerty’s yearlong contract is valued at up to $10 million. Questions have arisen regarding the specifics of Hagerty’s work, but the mayor’s office did not comment on whether Hagerty’s role would be reduced.
In January, Hagerty, AECOM, and a third firm presented their proposals to Bass and city officials. While Hagerty was initially selected, discussions with AECOM continued, leading to this new agreement.
Bass emphasized the importance of collaboration in the face of the disaster. “An unprecedented natural disaster requires an unprecedented, all-hands-on-deck response,” Bass said. “AECOM’s expertise in long-term infrastructure planning and design will only further expedite our work to get families home.”
The mayor’s office has not yet released details regarding the contract with AECOM, including compensation.
Steve Soboroff, former chief recovery officer, had previously criticized the initial decision to hire Hagerty over AECOM. Soboroff questioned Hagerty’s role and suggested AECOM was the better choice.
Along with the master plan and infrastructure support, AECOM will coordinate public and private rebuilding efforts. this includes a logistics plan for materials management and a traffic plan to accommodate increased rebuilding activity.
AECOM is also the official venue infrastructure partner for the 2028 Olympic Games.
What’s next
The city and AECOM will begin developing the master plan instantly, with a focus on expediting the rebuilding process for affected families and businesses in Pacific Palisades. The collaboration aims to ensure a swift and safe recovery from the devastating fire.