The Walt Disney Co. announced Monday a $5 million investment to revamp and reopen Charles White Park in Altadena that was heavily damaged in the Eaton Fire.
The company’s “Imagineers” are designing a playground and other elements “infused with Disney magic” as part of a $15 million commitment the company has made for efforts to help the community recover from the devastating January blaze.
“Los Angeles has been home to The Walt Disney Company since its founding more than a century ago, which is why we felt a special responsibility to help this community rebuild in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires earlier this year,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement. “I’m incredibly proud of our Imagineers who are volunteering their time and talents to help reimagine cherished public spaces like Charles White Park. Their work is not only a testament to Disney’s creative spirit, but also to our deep commitment to our neighbors throughout this region. We hope this effort brings comfort, joy, and a sense of renewal to the Altadena community for years to come.”
Enhancements at the park will include a new community center and Disney-designed play areas inspired by Altadena’s Deodar cedar pinecones, a splash pad, bridges, boulders, slides, swings and an amphitheater, according to Disney. Imagineers have been working with county staff on the playground design, site planning and landscape architecture at Charles White Park as well as two other Altadena parks damaged in the wildfire.
“Knowing that Disney’s Imagineers will pour their time, talent, and compassion into Altadena’s recovery is truly inspiring,” LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said in a statement. “Their work on Charles White Park and other community spaces is more than restoration. It is a gift of hope, joy, and healing for families who have endured so much this year.”
Disney will also support Altadena’s annual Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival on Dec. 6, including appearances by Disney characters, company officials said. Disney will also contribute over 1,000 toys to the community’s annual toy drive.
The Disney Field Days initiative “provides highly immersive experiences” to students in Altadena and other fire-impacted communities via themed activities from Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Marvel Studios and Lucasfilm. Disney Field Days offered hands-on activities, interactive games and visits from classic characters.
