Mayor Emma Sharif, 2nd from left, and Councilmember Lily Darden, 3rd from left, with city staff and officials. (Courtesy photo)

To the citizens of Compton, small businesses, and all surrounding regions that use the “Hub City” for essential transportation; the Artesia Bridge has been awarded state funds to repair the bridge!

Why The Bridge was Closed

In 2020 a significant fire took place under the Artesia Bridge and it was declared not operable for traffic use, therefore, a closure was placed for safety risks. That closure created a devastating blow to local and regional businesses; diminished city revenue for those impacted and created traffic complications for motorists and our residents.

On behalf of the city of Compton, I want to express my gratitude to Senator Steven Bradford and Assemblymember Mike Gipson for their leadership, tireless advocacy, strong relationships and tremendous partnership efforts. I also want to thank Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Pro Tem Toni Atkins, and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon for all of their support. We were able to get funding for our bridge, which became one of California’s top ten priority budget requests to Governor Newsom to allocate $12 million to fix the city’s vital use of the Artesia Bridge.

Bridge Rehabilitation Efforts

This rehabilitation will restore access to areas like the Gateway Towne Center and its respective businesses. In addition, it will serve as a continued connection for commuters traveling along the 91 freeway to the port of Long Beach. This project is part of the city’s determined approach to partner with and maximize State and Federal investments to create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and improve the quality of life for our residents.

Recent Compton Community Activities:

Labor In Unity: Citywide Clean up and Unity Picnic

In the spirit of community partnership, “Labor in Unity” is the way we unify the community by bringing everyone together on known issues and concerns for the health and cleanliness of our city.

We removed trash in the streets, parks, major corridors, and cleared out alleyways.

‘Unity’ is our driving force behind positive change!

The success of this event is attributed to every district Council Members, Compton Community Empowerment Coalition, and all participated partnerships encouraging their communities to come out in full force to clean their districts. It has filled me with so much joy and pride to have witnessed our community come together for such an amazing cause that I am so passionate about leading.

Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

I have always advocated the importance of unity among diverse cultural groups in building our great city together. Every year, we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month by paying tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have contributed, embraced, influenced and enriched our nation’s culture.

In partnership with the Latino Chamber of Commerce, whose support ensured the awareness of the important Hispanic Heritage event, we presented great artists, musicians, dancers and everything in between. In addition, we celebrated the rich Hispanic history with a history exhibit brought by the Compton 125 Historical Society Project.

Looking forward to the future

My duty has always been and will continue to provide accessibility for our residents with continued support in the success of Compton’s businesses. We are the “Hub City” and will remain transparent as we continue to build a flourishing and sustainable city.

I am a Mayor who believes that “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together.” Compton, under my leadership, will go far through partnerships, community support, engagement, and dedication to the growth of residents who work, eat, and play in our city.