Why is the new east end studios mission campus a game-changer for los angeles?

On July 16, 2024, a significant milestone was reached in the heart of downtown Los Angeles as East End Studios broke ground on their new Mission Campus. This state-of-the-art, 245,000-square-foot Class-A facility is set to become a cornerstone of the city’s entertainment infrastructure. The event was attended by notable figures, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who reaffirmed the city’s dedication to maintaining local production and bolstering Los Angeles’ key industry.

The Mission Campus, located in the vibrant Arts District, will feature five sound stages ranging from 14,000 to 35,000 square feet. The project, with a total cost of approximately $230 million, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The development is not only a testament to the city’s commitment to the entertainment industry but also a significant economic driver, creating 1,500 construction jobs and 750 permanent jobs upon completion.

A Vision for the Future of Entertainment

The new facility promises to be a premier production space for the entertainment industry, equipped to handle modern XR and VR workflows, and meeting the latest industry standards. The campus will include comprehensive facilities such as office spaces, production areas, support services, a commissary, mill, and outdoor areas. Additionally, it offers ample base camp space, parking, and direct-to-stage loading capabilities.

Shep Wainwright, Managing Partner at East End Studios, expressed his pride and honor in having the support of the City of Los Angeles and Mayor Karen Bass. He emphasized the abundant cultural richness and distinctive charm of the Arts District, making it an exceptionally fitting location for a best-in-class, fully integrated film and television studio campus. The transformation of a former cold storage facility into a state-of-the-art soundstage complex is set to create 750 new jobs, boosting the local economy.

Economic Impact and Industry Support

The entertainment industry is a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ economic strength, supporting around 200,000 jobs with an average wage higher than the county average. In 2023, Los Angeles’ GDP reached $790 billion, making it the 21st largest economy in the world. Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation, highlighted the significant economic impact of the entertainment industry on the region, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jolie Fisher, Secretary-Treasurer of SAG-AFTRA, praised the collaborative efforts that resolved last year’s strike, which had a significant impact on the city. She stressed the importance of keeping production in Los Angeles and called for continued support through tax incentives to maintain the city’s status as the heart of the entertainment industry. The new facility is seen as a thrilling start to leading a real golden age of Hollywood once again.

Transforming the Landscape of Downtown Los Angeles

The East End Studios Mission Campus is part of an ambitious development plan that includes five studio campuses, four in Los Angeles and one in New York City. These campuses will feature a total of 38 sound stages and 2.5 million square feet of creative space. The downtown studio alone will have five stages ranging from 14,000 to 35,000 square feet, with comprehensive facilities to support modern production needs.

The project involves the demolition and renovation of existing structures, including the conversion of previous refrigeration storage units into sound stages for filming commercials and movies. Once demolition is complete, new foundations will be laid under the tilt walls, and new steel columns and trusses will be installed. The concrete walls will be expanded vertically to 20 feet, creating open studio spaces with a new acoustically sound roof system. A ground-up, four-story production office will be built adjacent to the structure, replacing the old loading docks.

Our Advice on the City

As the East End Studios Mission Campus takes shape, it is clear that Los Angeles remains a vibrant hub for the entertainment industry. For occasional travelers, we recommend exploring the Arts District, where you can witness the transformation of this historic area into a modern entertainment epicenter. The district is known for its abundant cultural richness and distinctive charm, making it a must-visit destination.

For expert travelers, consider delving deeper into the city’s entertainment history by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre. Additionally, take the opportunity to explore behind-the-scenes tours of studios and production facilities to gain a deeper understanding of the industry’s inner workings.

In conclusion, the groundbreaking of the East End Studios Mission Campus marks a significant step forward for Los Angeles’ entertainment industry. The project not only reinforces the city’s position as the entertainment capital of the world but also promises to create thousands of jobs and boost the local economy. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a seasoned traveler, Los Angeles offers a wealth of experiences that celebrate its rich entertainment heritage.