Assemblymember Mike Fong Secures $500,000 for Pioneer Park Restoration in the City of El Monte

On October 4, Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) presented a check for $500,000 to the City of El Monte for the restoration of Pioneer Park, which will offer 5.51 acres of public park space when completed.

“The City of El Monte has made great strides in bringing more housing, economic development, and crucial services to its residents. The $500,000 in state funding will add to the City’s vibrant landscape by increasing much needed green space for El Monte residents to enjoy,” said Assemblymember Fong.

El Monte Mayor Jessica Ancona said, “Thank you to Assemblymember Fong for being a champion for El Monte. We are grateful for these funds which will help restore Pioneer Park and expand park access to our residents.”

Mayor Pro Tem Martin Herrera was an early advocate for the funding. “Green space is a matter of equity, and it’s no secret that El Monte is park poor. Pioneer Park has been closed for many years, but hopefully that will change soon with the help of $500,000 in state funding through Assemblymember Fong’s efforts to bring environmental justice to El Monte,” said Mayor Pro Tem Herrera.

The Pioneer Park location has been a long-time site for pit disposal and auto repair shops. The City of El Monte is currently conducting remediation for lead contamination. Once restored, Pioneer Park will be adjacent to over 500 units of affordable and market rate housing, as well as the El Monte Station.

Photos:

El Monte Check Presentation 1: L to R: El Monte City Manager Alma Martinez, El Monte Mayor Pro Tem Martin Herrera, Assemblymember Mike Fong, El Monte Mayor Jessica Ancona, El Monte Councilmember Dr. Julia Ruedas

El Monte Check Presentation 2: Assemblymember Mike Fong gives remarks before check presentation.

Assemblymember Mike Fong announces $1 Million in State Funding for LA County’s Norwood Library

On October 13, Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra), in partnership with LA County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, announced $1 million in state funding towards crucial facilities upgrades at Norwood Library. The funds were secured by Assemblymember Fong in the 2023-2024 California state budget.

“Libraries are at the heart of our community. For many, libraries are a lifeline, connecting them to the internet, to social services, to a safe space to spend time. I’m proud to have secured $1 million in state funding to update and modernize Norwood Library for future generations of El Monte residents to enjoy,” said Assemblymember Fong.

“Libraries offer educational enrichment, serve as vote centers, and provide a safe space for all to gather and learn. However, as we face historic learning loss from the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries are key to bringing our children and communities back up to speed. This is why I am so grateful that Assemblymember Mike Fong was able to grant my earmark request of $1 million. With this funding, coupled with the $600K I have allocated, we will ensure that the facility is one of hope for our community. I look forward to the day we can open the doors to a newly renovated Norwood Library,” said Supervisor Solis.

“We sincerely appreciate Assemblymember Mike Fong and Supervisor Hilda L. Solis’ efforts to secure state funding for Norwood Library,” said Library Director Skye Patrick. “With their support, we will have the opportunity to make crucial upgrades to Norwood Library that will benefit the customers who depend on this beloved community resource.”

Norwood Library is located at 4550 Peck Road, El Monte. The $1 million in state funds is on top of $600,000 Supervisor Solis has provided in discretionary funds to complete predevelopment activities. Facility upgrades may include ADA compliance updates, new furniture, additional outlets for mobile devices, and more.

Assemblymember Mike Fong represents the 49^th Assembly District, which includes the cities of Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, South Pasadena and Temple City, and the unincorporated areas of Pasadena and San Gabriel.  He serves as the Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Assembly Vice Chair of the Asian American Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus.