Our comprehensive rebuilding plan is a roadmap to transform Los Angeles into a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban model for the world.

1. Sustainable Building Codes and Fire-Resistant Structures

The foundation of any recovery effort must prioritize safety and sustainability. Los Angeles must mandate net-zero designs for all new construction and require the use of fire-resistant materials such as fiber cement siding and metal roofing. Anti-fire measures like ember-resistant vents and fire-rated walls should become standard. Furthermore, we must retrofit existing structures with these materials and provide financial incentives to property owners who do so. These steps are critical to reducing the risks posed by future wildfires.

2. Underground Power Lines

Overhead power lines have exacerbated fire risks for years. We propose a phased plan to transition power lines underground, starting with high-risk areas. By leveraging public-private partnerships and integrating smart grid technology, we can enhance safety while boosting energy efficiency and reliability. Expanding distributed energy systems like microgrids will further reduce dependency on centralized power sources, creating a more resilient energy infrastructure.

3. Vegetation and Land Management

Flammable native vegetation has fueled many of California’s most destructive fires. It is time to replace chaparral with fire-resistant, drought-tolerant vegetation that supports biodiversity. Controlled burns and ecological fire mitigation strategies must also be scaled up. By implementing strict landscaping regulations and incentivizing fire-resistant plantings, we can minimize the environmental and human costs of future wildfires.

4. Housing Affordability and Displacement

The wildfires have left thousands of Angelenos without homes. Rebuilding efforts must prioritize housing affordability and equity. A government-backed housing assistance fund can help displaced families rebuild, while mixed-income developments and modular housing projects can provide affordable options for low-income residents. Additionally, converting vacant commercial properties into residential units will help address the city’s chronic housing shortages.

5. Community Engagement

Recovery efforts must reflect the needs of the community. Town halls, workshops, and online forums will give residents a platform to voice their concerns and shape rebuilding policies. A citizen advisory board can ensure transparency and accountability, while multilingual outreach will make the process inclusive for all Angelenos.

6. Collaboration and Supply Chain Optimization

Rebuilding Los Angeles will require collaboration across industries. Construction firms, solar panel manufacturers, and supply chain experts must work together to ensure access to sustainable building materials. Streamlining permits and investing in workforce training will expedite reconstruction and address labor shortages.

7. Federal Government Support

Federal agencies have a vital role to play in rebuilding Los Angeles. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster relief funds should be allocated to support housing and infrastructure projects. Tax credits for sustainable rebuilding efforts and Department of Energy grants for solar integration can accelerate the recovery process. Additionally, the National Guard’s logistical support will be critical in addressing immediate rebuilding challenges.

A Vision for the Future

This plan is not just about recovering from disaster; it is about redefining resilience. By integrating sustainability, equity, and innovation into the rebuilding process, Los Angeles can serve as a global leader in climate adaptation. As we prepare to host future international events, our city must reflect the values of environmental stewardship and community solidarity.

The time to act is now. Rebuilding Los Angeles offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect our city from future wildfires, address systemic challenges, and lead the way in climate resilience. Let’s rise to the occasion.