Gardena City Council approves $5.3M Artesia Boulevard improvement contract

In the heart of Gardena's city hall, council members gathered on September 10, 2024, to discuss pivotal projects aimed at revitalizing the community. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as officials tackled key initiatives, including the much-anticipated Artesia Boulevard Arterial Improvement Project.

The meeting kicked off with a discussion about the long-stalled Rosecrans facade program, which has yet to materialize despite funds being allocated. This lingering issue highlighted the council's ongoing struggle to implement community enhancement projects effectively.

As the conversation shifted, the council turned its attention to the proposed design for string lighting along Gardena Boulevard. Suggestions were made to enhance the aesthetic appeal by zigzagging the lights from buildings to poles, a move aimed at adding character while adhering to Edison’s strict guidelines regarding street lighting.

The highlight of the meeting was the unanimous approval of the Artesia Boulevard project, which aims to improve traffic flow and safety from Western Avenue to Vermont Avenue. The council awarded a construction contract to DASH Construction Company for over $5.3 million, alongside additional contracts for construction management and inspection services. This project, funded through a combination of state and local measures, is set to include significant upgrades such as traffic signal enhancements and the replacement of sidewalks and curbs.

City officials emphasized the importance of community engagement during the construction phase, promising to notify residents well in advance of any disruptions. The tentative start date for construction is set for April 2025, with an expected duration of six months.

As the meeting concluded, the council expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have brought these projects to fruition. With a clear path forward, Gardena is poised for a transformation that promises to enhance both safety and aesthetics in the community.