LA's $1M Runyon Canyon Restroom Sparks Outrage

New two-stall facility at popular hiking spot draws criticism over high cost

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A new public restroom facility at the base of Los Angeles' Runyon Canyon hiking trail has sparked outrage from locals due to its reported $1 million price tag. The tiny two-stall restroom, which also includes two water fountains, was recently installed at the popular park that sees heavy use from tourists, locals, and celebrities.

Why it matters

Runyon Canyon is one of the most heavily used parks in Los Angeles, and the high cost of the new restroom facility has raised questions about government spending and priorities when it comes to basic public infrastructure. The controversy highlights the challenges cities face in providing adequate amenities for heavily trafficked public spaces.

The details

The new restroom facility at Runyon Canyon was funded through a grant, according to LA Councilwoman Nithya Raman. However, visitors to the park have expressed shock and dismay at the reported $1 million price tag, with one describing the structure as looking like an "extra-large dog house." Critics have questioned why such a small facility would cost so much, especially for a public park.

  • The new restroom facility was installed at Runyon Canyon on Thursday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Runyon Canyon

A popular hiking destination in Los Angeles that offers sweeping city views and is frequently visited by tourists, locals, and celebrities.

Nithya Raman

The LA Councilwoman who is currently running for mayor and stated that the restroom facility was funded through a grant.

Shira Scott Astrof

A Runyon Canyon visitor who described the new restroom as "absurd" and said it looks like an "extra-large dog house."

Nick Moschetto

A hiker at Runyon Canyon who questioned why the restroom cost the city $1 million.

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What they’re saying

“I thought it was absurd from the start, and now seeing it, it's even more absurd. They wheeled in what looks like an extra-large dog house.”

— Shira Scott Astrof, Runyon Canyon visitor (FOX 11)

“Why did it cost the city a million dollars?”

— Nick Moschetto, Hiker (FOX 11)

What’s next

The city has stated that the new restroom facility at Runyon Canyon is a step towards providing basic park infrastructure for the heavily used public space. However, the high cost has sparked ongoing questions and debate about government spending priorities.

The takeaway

The controversy over the $1 million restroom at Runyon Canyon highlights the challenges cities face in balancing the need for public amenities with the cost of providing them, especially in high-traffic areas. This incident has raised broader questions about transparency and accountability in government spending on infrastructure projects.