Mayor Eric Garcetti announced Tuesday that the “Mount Hollywood Summit” at Griffith Park would be renamed the “Tom LaBonge Summit,” after beloved former councilman Tom LaBonge.

Before LaBonge’s passing on January 8, he was known for his strong ties to Griffith Park, as he was part of an acquisition for 138 acres surrounding the Hollywood sign, according to the SGV Tribine.

The land was previously owned by Chicago-based investors and known as Cahuenga Peak, before being sold for $12.5 million to LaBonge and a group that included California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Playboy founder Hugh Hefner and other celebrities. The group then made that land part of Griffith Park in 2010.

“Anyone who knew Tom could tell you one thing about him: he loved every facet of our city — its geography, its diversity, its beauty, its people — and he gave his soul to it,” Garcetti said in a statement. “But perhaps nothing was closer to his heart than Griffith Park, our crown jewel. He knew practically every inch of the trails, hikes, and hills. He walked through the park daily. And it is only fitting that his name should forever be attached to this extraordinary landmark.”

The summit is the highest point at Griffith Park and overlooks the Griffith Observatory and Los Angeles skyline.

Garcetti added that a private service would be held for LaBonge this week and  a public celebration would be held to honor him after the COVID-19 pandemic concludes.

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.