In a major victory for environmental justice, the AllenCo oil facility in South Central Los Angeles has been permanently sealed after years of community resistance and legal battles. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the closure of all 21 oil wells at the site, marking a significant milestone in protecting local residents from ongoing health and environmental risks.

The AllenCo site, situated in a densely populated neighborhood near homes, schools, and hospitals, had long been a source of community concern. Residents had reported persistent air quality problems and health issues stemming from the facility’s repeated environmental violations. The City of Los Angeles first initiated legal action against the oil operator in 2014, but the company continued to obstruct efforts to remediate the hazardous conditions.

A turning point came in 2022 when state officials, backed by a court order, used bolt cutters to gain entry to the site and begin the process of permanently sealing the wells. This dramatic moment represented years of persistent advocacy by local community members who refused to accept the ongoing environmental harm.

The closure was made possible through significant state and federal investments in cleaning up abandoned oil wells. California’s 2022-23 state budget, along with federal support from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, provided crucial funding for identifying and sealing high-risk abandoned wells.

This success is part of a broader California initiative to protect communities from the legacy of irresponsible oil and gas operations. Through January 2025, the state has already plugged nearly 300 abandoned wells, covering more than one million feet underground. Additional legislation like SB 237 and SB 1137 has strengthened oversight of oil production and established health protection zones around new oil and gas wells.

The AllenCo closure represents more than just the shutdown of a single facility, it’s a testament to the power of community organizing and persistent advocacy in challenging environmental injustice. For the residents of University Park, this marks the beginning of a new chapter free from toxic pollution and corporate negligence.