We take great pride in the monumental progress we’ve achieved over the past few years. 95% of our projects are either completed or nearing completion. These efforts have not only enhanced the quality of life for our residents but have also transformed the Fifth District into a safer, more vibrant, and thriving community. Our district is now a place where progress is evident in every neighborhood, and residents experience the impact of real, lasting change.
In 2020, the district faced several pressing issues affecting our residents’ quality of life. Parks and public spaces were in disrepair, limiting recreational opportunities and gathering places for families. Public safety was a concern and essential to creating a more secure community. Schools needed improvement and we needed additional mental health resources to help our youth and support their overall well-being. Homelessness was a growing concern, with many individuals and families lacking stable housing options. Affordable housing was in short supply, and our infrastructure required immediate attention to improve safety and accessibility.
These challenges demanded urgent action, and we knew that addressing them would be essential to building a stronger, more connected Fifth District.
To tackle these challenges, we made strategic investments across multiple areas, working closely with community leaders, nonprofits, and local government agencies. Together, these efforts have brought transformative change and a renewed a sense of pride to the Fifth District.
Improving our infrastructure has been a top priority, leading to comprehensive repairs and upgrades across the district. We’ve invested over $70 million in projects like the Little 3rd Street Improvement Project. We upgraded roads, built ADA-compliant sidewalks, and enhanced flood channels. These revitalized roads and upgraded essential services have made daily life smoother and safer for our residents.
Beyond infrastructure, we recognized the importance of vibrant, accessible public spaces. We’ve revitalized public spaces to create vibrant community hubs. Kessler Park, with a $5.7 million investment, now features the Dream Field for young athletes and numerous upgrades, offering a safe, welcoming environment. We spent $2.5 million on improvements at Glen Helen Regional Park, including new waterslides, enhanced lighting, monuments, upgraded restrooms, picnic areas, and a splash pad for all to enjoy. Additionally, a $700,000 investment in the Rialto Library has transformed it into a warm, inviting space for learning, growth, and community connection.
Making our neighborhoods safer has been a primary focus. We’ve implemented measures to reduce crime and improve emergency response times, helping all residents feel secure in their communities. For the first time, we assigned dedicated deputies to serve the unincorporated areas of Bloomington, Muscoy, and Rosena Ranch. We also invested $10.2 million in a new fire station in Del Rosa to further enhance emergency response capabilities. With upgraded surveillance in busy areas and in close collaboration with local law enforcement, these efforts protect our residents and build a stronger, safer Fifth District.
Recognizing that the well-being of our youth shapes the future of our district, we prioritized mental health resources and educational support to help our young people thrive. We’ve invested $85 million in our schools to address mental health and other critical concerns for students. This includes funding for a new adolescent unit at the Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC), offering specialized support and care, as well as a wellness center at Indian Springs High School, providing a safe space for students to access mental health resources. Our commitment to school and mental health improvements has created a network of resources that foster academic success, emotional resilience, and personal growth for our youth.
We implemented targeted programs to address homelessness and create stable housing for residents in need, including a $14.7 million investment in the Phase II expansion of Pacific Village in San Bernardino. This expansion will add 32 additional beds, providing essential housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. These initiatives have created housing solutions for all income levels, ensuring secure, affordable options are available to everyone in our district.
Looking ahead, we know there’s more to do. Key projects remain, from expanding infrastructure to improving public spaces and meeting new community needs. We’re committed to growing sustainably, revitalizing neighborhoods, and making sure every resident has access to the resources and opportunities they need. Together, we will build on this momentum, continuing to make the Fifth District a place of progress, resilience, and opportunity for all.