HACLA Secures $10.65M in Federal Funding to Drive Climate Resilience and Digital Equity Across Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA - The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) has been awarded $10,650,000 in Community Project Funding (CPF). Signed into law on February 3 as part of the FY2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill, this federal investment arrives at a pivotal moment, allowing HACLA to modernize infrastructure, protect residents from extreme climate shifts, and bridge the digital divide for thousands of Angelenos.

The funding expands HACLA's "Smart Climate Solutions" with the installation of energy-efficient cooling systems, roof replacements, building small-scale neighborhood-based affordable units, and the modernization of community computer labs.

"This $10.6 million investment represents a monumental win for the health and stability of our residents," said Lourdes Castro Ramírez, HACLA President & CEO. "As Los Angeles faces more frequent and intense heat waves, upgrading our aging infrastructure with energy-efficient air conditioning and 'cool roofs' is no longer a luxury-it is a necessity for survival. Beyond the physical upgrades, this is about improving the quality of life and well-being of the families we serve. We are deeply grateful to our Congressional partners for recognizing that affordable housing must also be resilient, sustainable, and connected."

"As Los Angeles - and cities around the world - face more frequent and severe weather events and periods of extreme heat, it's critical that we continue investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and technology to protect our communities, especially our most vulnerable Angelenos," said Mayor Bass. "I want to thank our Congressional partners who pushed for this funding that will help us modernize aging housing facilities and improve quality of life for families across L.A."

Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), who championed the funding for the Eastside, highlighted the direct impact on local households. "I worked closely with HACLA to secure this federal funding because families in Los Angeles should see federal dollars improving their homes and expanding opportunity," said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. "With $4 million going to Estrada Courts and Ramona Gardens, we're helping residents stay safe during extreme heat by upgrading homes with air conditioning and fans. We're also expanding access to housing that's affordable in El Sereno and closing the digital divide so seniors, students, and working families have access to the tools they need to succeed. This is about delivering real results that improve daily life in our community."

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) emphasized the importance of this funding for the community and families she represents in South Los Angeles. "I am proud to have secured this $3.15 million federal investment for Watts, Nickerson Gardens, Imperial Courts, and Gonzaque Village, because our families deserve healthy housing that is affordable and resilient," said Congresswoman Maxine Waters. "After California endured record-breaking heat last year, it is clear that upgrading aging public housing with air conditioning, modern roofs, and digital infrastructure is not optional, it is essential. Seniors, children, and working families should not have to suffer through extreme temperatures or fall behind because of outdated facilities. These funds will strengthen communities in South Los Angeles, protect residents from climate impacts, and expand access to opportunity. That is how we make sure federal dollars truly work for the people."

Furthering the reach into the San Fernando Valley, Congresswoman Liz Rivas (CA-29) touted the upgrades to infrastructure that the funding in her district allowed. "I am proud to secure $1.6 million in federal funding to help HACLA upgrade public housing facilities in the San Fernando Valley - including Parthenia Place and the San Fernando Gardens," said Congresswoman Luz Rivas. "With these upgrades, HACLA will be able to support workforce and education opportunities for residents, as well as prepare residents for the effects of extreme heat. I look forward to continue working with HACLA to equip public housing facilities across Los Angeles and the Valley with the necessary upgrades to help residents thrive."

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) stressed the importance of intergovernmental partnership at every level and worked hard to bring much needed funds to HACLA residents at Pueblo del Rio. "Every Angeleno deserves safe, quality housing that safeguards their health and well-being. That's why I was proud to secure $250,000 for air conditioning units and fans at Pueblo del Rio to help families stay cool during the summer and ensure this community can continue serving Angelenos in need," said Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove. "Addressing Los Angeles' housing crisis demands strong partnerships across federal, state, and local government. I remain committed to working alongside our city and county leaders to deliver the federal resources our communities deserve."

Background and Innovation

This milestone builds on HACLA's long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, building on years of progress in decarbonization and climate equity. As showcased during the International Day of Clean Energy on January 26, HACLA's multi-year strategy has already delivered a wide-ranging portfolio of success-from the 100% building electrification at Jordan Downs to the award-winning Toilet Sensor Project. By securing these new funds, HACLA continues to scale its proven model of redefining public housing through sustainable innovation.

Investing in Climate Adaptation and Infrastructure

The majority of the funds are dedicated to protecting residents from extreme heat. Major allocations include:

• Estrada Courts & Ramona Gardens ($4,000,000): Retrofitting homes with living room A/C units and bedroom ceiling fans to mitigate extreme heat (Rep. Jimmy Gomez, CA-34).

• Watts Public Housing ($3,150,000): Delivering comprehensive A/C, roof, and computer lab upgrades for Nickerson Gardens, Imperial Courts, and Gonzaque Village (Rep. Maxine Waters, CA-43).

• San Fernando Gardens ($850,000): Implementing ng energy-efficient A/C and "cool roof" technologies to lower internal temperatures and energy costs (Rep. Luz Rivas, CA-29).

• Pueblo Del Rio ($250,000): Expanding energy-efficient A/C installations (Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, CA-37).

Expanding Housing and Opportunity

Beyond infrastructure, the grants catalyze affordable housing and workforce readiness:

• El Sereno Affordable Housing ($850,000): Rehabilitating properties from the former Caltrans 710 portfolio and construct new ADUs, creating nearly 30 deeply affordable units (Rep. Gomez).

• Digital Equity and Modernization ($1,600,000): Bridging the digital divide through major computer lab renovations and tech upgrades at permanent supportive, senior and public housing communities to expand educational and career opportunities (Reps. Gomez and Rivas).

Grant Breakdown by Project

Through this funding, HACLA reinforces its resolve to ACT. Anticipating the needs of a changing climate, Committing to lead in housing, and Transforming Los Angeles neighborhoods through proactive, nimble leadership.

###

About HACLA

The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA), established in 1938, provides affordable housing, rental assistance, and supportive services to more than 200,000 Angelenos. Its administrative portfolio includes 164 properties - 12 of which are public housing developments - totaling over 12,000 units, along with more than 60,000 Housing Vouchers and Certificates through the Section 8 program. For more information, visit www.hacla.org.

CONTACT:

[email protected]