The LA River Revitalization project got a major bump, as California State Senate leader Kevin de León (D-LA) announced a $25M contribution to help purchase 40 acres of Union Pacific’s Taylor Yard in Cypress Park. The city is in negotiations to buy the parcel, but the state’s contribution is expected to cover the majority of the cost.

LA Mayor Eric Garcetti calls this parcel the "crown jewel" of the river's $1.4B revitalization effort, which would restore 11 miles of the 51-mile river, returning it to its natural state, along with 700 acres of natural habitat along river frontage.

The section of a revitalized LA River near Downtown LA is a proposed venue in the LA’s bid for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Additionally, LA architect Frank Gehry has taken an interest in revitalizing the river and has indicated that his firm is developing plans along its entire course, from the San Fernando Valley to Long Beach. [LAT]