The Equity in Infrastructure Initiative
The Equity in Infrastructure Initiative is changing the way Los Angeles County Public Works serves its communities. This Initiative is prioritizing equity in all of Public Works’ infrastructure delivery and services. Through this important work, Public Works will build a safer, more accessible, and more resilient Los Angeles County.
Message from Director Pestrella
“EQUITY means that we are actively working towards creating a society where all people are able to realize their fullest potential, regardless of identity, background, or economic circumstance.”
– Public Works Director Mark Pestrella
Community Resources
Public Works is partnering with ARDI, which seeks to end structural racism and its consequences in Los Angeles County.
Board Motions and Reports
Board Reports
- Equity in Infrastructure Initiative – Interim report #2 for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors May 2023
- Interim Report for the
Los Angeles County
Board of SupervisorsAugust 31, 2022
Board Motions
- Motion by supervisors HollyJ. Mitchell AND Janice Hahn addressing infrastructure inequality August 10, 2021
- Revised motion by Sueprvisor Mark Ridley-Thomas
establishing an Antiracist Los Angeles County Policy Agenda July 21, 2020
Background
Public Works has a strategic focus area of Equity, creating an environment where all communities receive the services they need.
Looking back through the decades of operations, Public Works focused on serving communities equally rather than equitably. However, Public Works is now transforming to focus on addressing historical disparities in infrastructure investments and services for communities who have not had a voice.
Public Works has a responsibility to address the health and safety impacts on communities, especially communities of color, related to public infrastructure.
As stated by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, the County’s role is to build back, equitably, and has already taken several important steps:
The County created its Anti-Racism, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative (ARDI) in July 2020. ARDI’s purpose is to bring an end to structural racism in Los Angeles County, and its consequences on impacted communities.
The Board passed a motion in August 2021 directing Public Works to accelerate the County’s anti-racist agenda, specifically as it relates to infrastructure services.
Public Works updated its Strategic Plan to focus more on providing infrastructure, services and programs in a fair and equitable manner.
“When We Know Better, We Do Better”
Being equity focused requires that we are always looking beyond assumptions and project checklists. By establishing long-term relationships with communities and looking beyond traditional approaches, we can find the best way to serve local needs.
Public Works’ focus on equity will drive infrastructure funding and improve services to communities with historical disadvantage, ensuring positive outcomes for all County residents and future generations.
Public Works’ goal is to build upon the County’s anti-racist agenda. This Initiative will help us decide more equitably what gets prioritized, built, and better maintained, boosting the benefits for those communities that have experienced underinvestment in the past.
A Public Works That Works For All
Through this Initiative, Public Works will be investing resources within LA County’s communities where they are most needed.
Prioritizing equity in infrastructure spending will strengthen LA County communities that have been historically neglected, bringing jobs, new projects, and most importantly, improved life outcomes.
Contact Us
For questions related to this Initiative, contact PIO@pw.lacounty.gov or 1-800-675-HELP extension(4357).
For press inquiries, contact Kerjon Lee at (626) 458-4348.