‘LA Is Open,’ Mayor Bass tells world

Amid efforts to boost the local economy in the Los Angeles region, officials on Tuesday announced the “LA Is Open” initiative, a so-called “recovery campaign” aimed at promoting the tourism industry and supporting small businesses impacted by January’s fires.

“L.A. Is Open” is intended to signal that Los Angeles is open for business, resilient and ready to welcome visitors from around the world, according to officials.

The initiative is an overarching campaign linking and showcasing other programs with the same goal such as Shop LA, Dine LA and Discover LA.

The campaign is being facilitated by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation in partnership with the county’s Department of Economic Opportunity, L.A.’s Economic & Workforce Development Department, as well as the California Community Foundation, among others.

On Monday, Mayor Karen Bass discussed the campaign alongside Dee Dee Myers, a senior adviser to Gov. Gavin Newsom; Kelly LoBianco, director of the county’s DEO; and LAEDC President and CEO Stephen Cheung.

“Through this bold new campaign, we are sending a clear message that Los Angeles is open for business and ready to welcome everyone back to LA to explore all that our vibrant city has to offer,” Bass said in a statement.

“From neighborhood gems like Olvera Street, Grand Central Market, Little Ethiopia and more to our museums, beaches, parks and beyond — come visit LA and see why our city is second to none,” Bass added.

Cheung added the recovery campaign reflects what he described as the “collective determination” for the region to rise stronger than ever after a tumultuous year.

“The campaign is not just about recovery; it’s about renewal,” Cheung said in a statement. “We are bringing together public and private partners to showcase the resilience, creativity and opportunity take make Los Angeles unlike any place in the world.”

More information is available at laedc.org/LAisOpen.