California Preservation Foundation

Advocacy - CPF led major advocacy efforts to advance preservation and address housing needs. We co-sponsored AB 3068 with YIMBY Action to make adaptive reuse for housing a use-by-right across all zones, provided projects followed the Secretary of the Interiors Standards. The bill passed both houses but was ultimately vetoed, though it built a solid foundation for future efforts. CPF also opposed AB 2580, which threatened to undermine preservation, mobilizing thousands in grassroots advocacy. We actively lobbied to relocate the proposed State Capitol Visitors Center to preserve the historic West Portal. In addition, we hosted Building on History: A Summit for Housing Solutions, convening over 400 experts and advocates to explore preservation-based approaches to Californias housing crisis. To further unify our voice statewide, CPF launched an Advocacy Network and saw a surge in membership engagement, underscoring our growing influence as a statewide leader in shaping preservation policy and supporting equitable housing solutions.

Research - Through our Underrecognized California program, CPF is expanding the narrative of Californias heritage by researching and supporting the designation of overlooked historic places. This year, we submitted a draft nomination for Lenchitas, a culturally significant site in Los Angeles Latino community. We also initiated the National Register nomination for the James Dodd Architecture Offices, linked to one of Sacramentos pioneering Black Modernist architects. CPF coordinated with preservation experts and property owners to move these efforts forward, underscoring our commitment to inclusive history and community-driven documentation. These projects not only preserve architectural and cultural landmarks but also serve as case studies in broadening public understanding of who and what is considered historic in California. This research, conducted in partnership with local communities, elevates narratives that have been traditionally underrepresented and ensures that preservation reflects the full diversity of the states pastand future.