AIA|LA ASKS LEGISLATORS TO PROTECT SB1407 FUNDS FOR COURTHOUSE CONSTRUCTION
Last Updated: February 18, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Will Wright
AIA Los Angeles
Tel: 213-639-0777 x18
Email:
www.aialosangeles.org
AIA|LA ASKS LEGISLATORS TO PROTECT SB1407 FUNDS FOR COURTHOUSE CONSTRUCTION
LOS ANGELES, CA, February 18, 2010: in letters to California Legislators, the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA|LA), expressed strong support for protecting funding for the court facility renovation and construction program created by the passage of Senate Bill 1407.
AIA|LA opposes the idea of diverting capital improvement funds that were authorized under SB 1407 (Perata) to fund courthouse operations. We understand the importance of maintaining effective operations of our court system and believe that a proactive solution should be sought that addresses the needs of the courts without delaying the benefit that this program would provide to the citizens of California and our economy.
The need for new court facilities is well established, as is the need for jobs. SB 1407 created a new revenue source which funds $5.1 billion for urgently needed, new, modern courthouses. If the revenue stream is diverted, even partially, the entire bond program would be jeopardized. These projects will provide much needed jobs for our members and many others in the design and construction industry that has been severely impacted by the economic recession. These projects will also provide stimulus to our overall economy. It has been widely heralded that every $1 spent on capital projects generates $7 back into the economy. Additionally, these funds will realize the much-needed new facilities that will enable our courts to operate more effectively and efficiently for years to come.
AIA|LA represents 3200 design professionals who are committed to helping our communities and our economy through leadership in improving the built environment. We respectfully ask our California legislators not to divert SB 1407 funds to pay for operational expenses of the courts.
About AIA|LA
The mission of AIA Los Angeles is to provide the leadership to improve the built environment.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the voice of the architecture profession, dedicated to serving and empowering its members through advocacy, educational and outreach programs as well as educating the public on the value and importance of architecture. Members of the AIA include architects, associates working towards licensure, and affiliate members who work in a variety of allied fields.
Formed 115 years ago - AIA|LA is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to furthering the efforts of the American Institute of Architects by specifically serving the interests of our local architecture and design community. AIA|LA's membership includes architects and design professionals actively engaged in the industry. Members work at diverse companies representing a broad range of professional practices. Through advocacy, education, networking and outreach, AIA|LA serves as a resource to help make the Los Angeles region more delightful, healthier, more sustainable and economically competitive.
For additional information, please contact:
Will Wright
Director, Government & Public Affairs
AIA Los Angeles
3780 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Website: http://www.aialosangeles.org
Phone: 213.639.0777
Fax: 213.639.0767
Email: Will Wright
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