The La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles are set to undergo a significant transformation with a $236 million infusion of funding, marking the most substantial renovation in the attraction's 50-year history. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced Friday that a revenue bond will finance extensive improvements across the 13-acre museum complex in Hancock Park.
The initiative, dubbed the La Brea Tar Pits Reimagine Project, will introduce new exhibition galleries, visible research laboratories, expanded storage for its extensive fossil collection, a theater, and a rooftop terrace offering views of the tar pits and surrounding park. The George C. Page Museum will be revamped as part of this effort to give the prehistoric landmark a modern update.
"We are embarking on a once-in-a-generation reimagining of the La Brea Tar Pits, transforming this critical resource into a global hub that is more visible, accessible and essential than ever before," stated Leslie Negritto, CFO of Natural History Museums of L.A. County. "The new Samuel Oschin Global Center for Ice Age Research sits at the heart of this transformation, and our collaboration with IBank is vital to advancing this project and preserving and modernizing one of Los Angeles’ most iconic landmarks."
While modernization is a key goal, certain historic elements will be preserved. The museum's original atrium and exterior will remain, with efforts focused on improving overall accessibility. The renovation will also create space for the Samuel Oschin Global Center for Ice Age Research, where fossil preparation and scientific research will be showcased to the public.
The museum closed in July for a two-year renovation, though the surrounding park remains accessible. Officials anticipate the museum will reopen in 2028, coinciding with the Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Programming is expected to continue in new and existing formats upon reopening, with paleontologists maintaining excavations, collections, and research activities. Educational programs, behind-the-scenes tours, and presentations will also be offered.
The funding is being provided through bond proceeds from the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank). Andy Nakahata, IBank Executive Director and CEO, remarked, "This financing will help advance a landmark project that preserves a significant scientific resource while expanding opportunities for discovery and learning."
Founded in 1994, IBank's mission is to finance public infrastructure and private development that fosters job creation and enhances the quality of life for California residents. Governor Newsom highlighted the project as an embodiment of the state's commitment to science, education, and innovation.
The La Brea Tar Pits are recognized as one of the world's foremost fossil sites, serving as a significant center for scientific research and public education. Recently, in August, scientists identified a new species of extinct spadefoot toad, Spea labreae, discovered at the site.
L.A. County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, representing the area, commented on the $236 million investment, stating, "At its core, this is about the impact private-public partnerships can have in investing in opportunities and shared spaces that make access to science, wonder, and exploration more accessible for all."
