"Project Recovery"

A Collaborative Roadmap for Post-Wildfire Recovery in Los Angeles County

"Project Recovery" represents a landmark collaborative effort between UCLA, USC, and the Urban Land Institute (LA chapter) to address the aftermath of the devastating January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles County. This 172-page comprehensive report, chaired by CBRE executive Lew Horne, brings together approximately 100 experts in real estate, urban planning, and economic development to create an actionable recovery framework.

Key Challenges Identified

The report pinpoints eight critical bottlenecks impeding recovery:

  • Need for standardized debris removal protocols

  • Government capacity limitations for construction approvals

  • Labor and supply chain disruptions

  • California property insurance market instability

  • Coordination gaps between recovery efforts

  • Infrastructure funding shortfalls

  • Housing market pressures

  • Climate adaptation requirements

Strategic Solutions

The report proposes concrete solutions to accelerate recovery while building resilience:

  • Streamlined permitting and inspection processes

  • Strategies to address construction labor and material shortages

  • Recommendations for stabilizing the property insurance market

  • Community Rebuilding Authorities to coordinate across affected areas

  • Infrastructure investment with future-focused preparedness elements

  • Climate adaptation measures to reduce vulnerability to future disasters

In alignment with realstream's mission of "documenting interlocking challenges in real time" and "reimagining how we rebuild homes," Project Recovery offers valuable insights for communities navigating complex recovery processes while planning for an uncertain climate future.

Research Link