The park, which would build on the work already established by the Point Vicente Interpretive Center (PVIC), would be a beautifully landscaped, thoughtfully designed learning zone, providing a combination of outdoor exhibits and programs on topics relevant to the region and community: a Tongva village; an archeological dig; flora and fauna, geology and weather; local pioneers, including whalers and ranchers; and much, much more.

On the most inland side of the park there would be an education center largely devoted to teaching people about mammals they typically consider to be part of their own families: their dogs and cats. There is much to know about the companion animals that have evolved from the wild but now inhabit our homes. The Learning Center would provide a broad-based education program, designed to help us better understand how to adopt, care for and understand our four-footed friends. It would also offer sophisticated animal adoption counseling and support.

The Foundation has been working closely with a community advisory cabinet, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes City Council, City staff and a specialized planning team to develop architectural, landscape and program designs.

Many Ways to Enjoy Lower Point Vicente
What would a visit to Lower Point Vicente be like? Some days you might come to attend a workshop, followed perhaps by a picnic lunch. Or, you could first see a new exhibit at PVIC, and then come to the education center to see an exhibit on animals' senses, or see a film in the theater. Your high school student may be doing a Saturday internship with the veterinarian, or you may be spending the afternoon as a docent leading a Scout group through the Tongva village. Walking across the park you could encounter a docent with an “explore cart” and learn something new. Or you may take a hike along the coast, starting at Lower Point Vicente.

Inside the Education Center
Step inside and you would see a beautiful public “living room” enhanced with riveting “digitized ink” art, infused with natural light, that would inspire you with a sense of possibility. You'd see a digital touch screen family scrapbook featuring photos and comments from the community. You could study an exhibit about wildlife rescue organizations and what they do, or learn about the top 10 things you need to know about pet care. Upstairs you could visit dogs and cats in themed suites (named after famous animals in art, film and public life), and interact with them, if you like, as you learn more about the unique bonds between animals and humans. You'd see two state-of-the-art classrooms that open out to a patio area, perfect for art projects and outdoor education. And you could participate in a lecture in the auditorium, a flexible seating space equipped for web conferencing and community meetings, with an ocean view window.

Working with the Schools; Activities for All Ages
From classes to exhibits, workshops and field trips, there would be a variety of ways students and volunteers of all ages could participate and become actively involved. Educational programs would align with California state curriculum standards.

Designed for Preservation and Sustainability
The design applies a wide range of approaches to ensure sensitivity to the environment, including improved watershed management and the use of native plants in landscaping. We would be pursuing LEED certification, exploring alternative energy options, and using natural building ventilation, water-conserving fixtures and sustainable materials.

A Philanthropic Gift to the Community
The construction of the project would be a charitable gift from the Annenberg Foundation under the leadership of Wallis Annenberg. Ongoing operations and maintenance would be underwritten by the Foundation.

A Discovery Park with Many Purposes
The plans for the project at Lower Point Vicente include:
• Preserving open space
• Fulfilling Point Vicente Interpretative Center (PVIC) renovation goals
• Creating an outdoor exhibit area
• Offering outdoor educational exhibit areas and special areas to facilitate volunteer-led programs and independent learning experiences
• Improving watershed management
• Providing trails, enhanced pathways, picnic areas and outdoor gathering space for community events

And, the Education Center plans include:
• Providing spaces for classes, community and civic meetings, and events
• Designing world-class architecture and landscape, and a green roof for beauty and sustainability
• Presenting interactive art and video educational exhibits, and distance-learning webcasts
• Offering workshops and classes on pet care and local wildlife
• Providing companion animal adoption services, educational programs and volunteer opportunities


See below some more renderings of the park entrance, the Living Room and the community theater.

Staying Informed
To learn more about the Annenberg Foundation project, contact Jackie Jaakola, General Manager, The Annenberg Project at Lower Point Vicente, jjaakola@annenbergfoundation.org or by phone at (310) 406-3710.

If you would like to receive regular updates on the project via email, sign up here.