COMPTON – The city of Compton held a groundbreaking ceremony at the Artesia Bridge on Jan. 17 in anticipation of its reopening.
“After 3 years of perseverance, today marks the beginning of a new chapter for the City of Compton. The Artesia Bridge has been a lifeline for our community, and its repair is a testament to our collective commitment to progress,” stated Compton Mayor Emma Sharif.
The bridge was closed in late 2020 due to a fire of unknown origin.
The closure of the Artesia Bridge has had a profound impact on public safety, goods movement, and the local economy. Businesses along the affected route have reported significant losses, ranging from $150,000 to $400,000 per week in sales.
The businesses adjacent to the Artesia Bridge, in the Gateway Towne Center, and the Crystal Park Casino, bore the brunt of the impact of its closure.
“Today’s groundbreaking ceremony is a turning point for our community and local businesses. The repair of the Artesia Bridge signifies the restoration of economic vitality in the region” said Edward Padilla, General Manager of Crystal Casino, “I am optimistic that the construction of the bridge will bring renewed foot traffic and opportunities, allowing businesses to thrive once again.”
The reopening of the bridge is anticipated to alleviate these challenges and restore the flow of traffic and commerce. Senator Steven Bradford and Assemblymember Mike Gipson played pivotal roles in securing $12 million in state funds for the bridge’s repair, making it one of California’s top ten priority budget requests to Governor Gavin Newsom in the 2021-2022 fiscal year.
“I’m thrilled about the Artesia Bridge groundbreaking. This ceremony represents more than just infrastructure restoration—it’s a symbol of community resilience,” said Council Member Lillie Darden. “The bridge reopening will increase connectivity, improve customer patronage and transportation logistics for our local businesses, and help keep our residents safe.”
The ceremony marked the start of the repair process, with a scheduled completion date by the summer of 2024.
“Repairing the Artesia Bridge reconnects communities and businesses to each other, fostering critical economic growth in Compton and across the Second District,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell. “I am also proud of the County’s Pathway Home Initiative which quickly deployed to provide housing resources to individuals who were seeking shelter under the Artesia Bridge and allow construction to continue.”
The County was able to temporarily house 33 persons under the Pathway Home Operation which was held the week prior.
The LA County Homeless Initiative collaborated with the Office of LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell and the City of Compton in conducting the Pathway Home operation on January 9th. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) and the nonprofit service provider HOPICS were essential to bringing unsheltered residents indoors, as they had built trusting relationships with them by providing engagement and support during their unhoused experience.
The Artesia Bridge is a critical thoroughfare connecting the 91 freeway, the Port of Long Beach, and neighboring cities. As the bridge undergoes restoration, it is poised to bring about positive changes in public safety, economic vitality, and community connectivity.