(pictured left to right): Mayor Pro Tem Schachter, PVPLC Executive Director Adrienne Mohan, Councilmember Stegura, Assemblymember Muratsuchi, Councilmember Huff, Councilmember Schmitz, Mayor Zerunyan, Senator Allen, and City Manager Greg Grammer.

The City of Rolling Hills Estates, in partnership with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Nature Center at George F Canyon, marking a major milestone in a long-envisioned effort to expand environmental education and access to one of the Peninsula’s most treasured spaces.

The new Nature Center will serve as a “gateway to the great outdoors,” offering expanded opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore, learn, and connect with the natural environment.

Construction of Phase One is now underway and includes a new, approximately 3,300-square-foot facility featuring flexible learning spaces and interactive exhibits highlighting local flora and fauna. The building will incorporate sustainable design elements such as solar panels, energy-efficient systems, native landscaping, and electric vehicle charging. Completion is anticipated in Summer 2027.

The George F Canyon Nature Center has long served as a regional destination, welcoming many visitors each year and supporting student field trips, scout programs, and community nature experiences. The new facility will build on that legacy, creating a modern hub for environmental education and community engagement.

“This project is about more than building a facility; it’s about honoring the land, investing in our future, and creating a place where generations to come can learn, explore, and connect with nature,” said Mayor Frank Zerunyan. “This is something that will serve our community and future generations for years to come.”

“The Nature Center has always been a place where people come to experience and understand the natural world,” said Adrienne Mohan, Executive Director of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. “This new facility will allow us to expand that mission, offering more opportunities for hands-on learning, deeper engagement with the environment, and meaningful connections to this special landscape.”

Project Funding and Costs

The total estimated project cost is approximately $6.15 million, which includes construction, furnishings, educational components, and professional services such as design, engineering, and construction management.

The project is funded through a combination of grants, City resources, and partner contributions. Major funding sources include:

· $1.2 million from the California State Department of Parks and Recreation (secured with support from Senator Ben Allen)

· $500,000 from Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn

· $424,200 from the Rivers and Mountains Conservancy

In addition, the City has allocated Measure W funds for eligible components such as stormwater pollution prevention, and approximately $1.2 million of its Park Facilities Fees. The Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy is also contributing toward educational elements and furnishings.

To support future enhancements, including Phase Two improvements, the City is actively seeking community contributions. Donations are being accepted through the Pepper Tree Foundation, which serves as the project’s philanthropic partner. While no donations have been secured to date, outreach to major donors is ongoing, and a broader community fundraising campaign is expected to launch in the coming months.

While Phase One focuses on the main facility, Phase Two will include an outdoor learning pavilion and an accessible ramp to improve connections into the canyon and trail system.

Programming at George F Canyon will continue during construction at a reduced level to ensure public safety. The City and the Land Conservancy plan to continue select offerings, including guided hikes, native plant sales, and limited educational programming, with the canyon trail remaining open to the public.

The City and its partners encourage community members to support the project and help bring its full vision to life. Donations can be made through the Pepper Tree Foundation. For more information or to donate, visit: www.RHE.city/NatureCenter

Media Contact: Alexa Davis, Assistant City Manager

City of Rolling Hills Estates (310) 377-1577