Rancho Cucamonga, California
A HIDDEN GEM THAT SHINES THROUGH
GROWING QUICKLY, THIS CITY IS EMBRACING THE FUTURE WHILE KEEPING ITS ROOTS IN VIEW
Once a flourishing hub of agriculture in California, Rancho Cucamonga boasts a rich history that dates back to its days as a collection of vibrant farming communities. Incorporated in 1977, this transformation marked the union of these historic enclaves into a single, dynamic city. The early 1970s brought a wave of rapid suburbanization, and discontent with San Bernardino County’s handling of this development spurred local residents to take action. Fueled by a desire to shape their own destiny, these communities came together to incorporate Rancho Cucamonga, paving the way for a new era of self-determined growth and progress.
Julie Sowles, Deputy City Manager over Civic and Cultural Services, and Matt Burris, Deputy City Manager over Community and Economic Development, shared their insights on the City’s journey and ambitions.
“Our origin story is rooted in wanting to control our growth and development,” Burris explains. “Our founders envisioned a different type of community from what existed in the Inland Empire at the time.” This vision has guided the City’s policymakers, who are known for their bold ideas and patience in realizing long-term plans.
MASTER PLANS
The City’s commitment to planning and development is evident in its recent updates to the General Plan and various master plans. Adopted in December 2021, the updated General Plan sets the stage for future master plans, including those for the area around the minor league baseball stadium and civic center as well as the economic development strategy.
The economic development strategy, updated every five years, plays a crucial role in guiding the City’s efforts. The latest strategy, influenced by community member insights gained during the General Plan update, focuses on changing development patterns to attract a more vibrant and diverse community. “We aim to create urban, active, and vibrant spaces that appeal to younger and diverse professionals, middle managers, and executives,” Burris notes.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Rancho Cucamonga’s economic development strategy leverages its strengths in manufacturing, finance, insurance, real estate, and professional services. Recognizing Rancho Cucamonga’s competitive advantages, the strategy aims to support and grow these industries.
While the City’s thriving logistics industry expanded during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the City also seeks to reduce the long commutes of its educated residents by attracting more local jobs in white-collar industries.
Burris highlights the importance of regional economic development partnerships and transportation investments. “We’re looking at major transportation investments, including high-speed rail connecting Rancho Cucamonga to Las Vegas, which will enhance our regional economy and provide new amenities, transportation options, and housing.”
TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS
One of the most anticipated projects is the Brightline West high-speed passenger rail, which will connect Rancho Cucamonga to Las Vegas with stops in Hesperia and Apple Valley. Expected to break ground in early 2025, this all-electric, zero-emission train will travel at top speeds of 200 miles per hour, covering the 218-mile distance in record time.
Sowles emphasizes the positive impact of this project on the City’s hospitality services, reducing emissions, and creating jobs. “The project will generate 35,000 jobs during construction and about 1,000 permanent operations and maintenance jobs once operational,” she says.
This ambitious transportation project is poised to transform the region, creating a more interconnected Southern California. The anticipated influx of visitors and ease of travel will undoubtedly boost local businesses and tourism, making Rancho Cucamonga a central hub for economic activity.
ATTRACTING NEW BUSINESSES
Rancho Cucamonga has seen a surge in new and noteworthy businesses. Westland Group, a 240-person engineering and survey company, is relocating its headquarters to the City, indicating success in achieving a long-held goal of attracting professional service firms. Other significant additions include Smart & Final’s parent company, Chedraui USA, opening a 1.4 million square foot facility, and the expansion of Coca-Cola’s current operations to include a bottling facility, the first in Southern California in decades.
The City has also welcomed popular brands like Shake Shack and Philz Coffee, which are thriving in their new locations. “We see these businesses succeeding here as a testament to our Rancho Cucamonga’s strong market, stable property values, and high-performing locations,” Burris says.
This influx of new businesses is not only a sign of the City’s economic vitality but also a draw for more companies looking for a stable and prosperous environment. Rancho Cucamonga offers a unique blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, making it an attractive destination for both startups and established firms.
LIBRARY LEGACY
Sowles highlights the City’s focus on expanding arts and culture. Victoria Gardens, a lifestyle center, houses the Victoria Gardens Cultural Center, including the Paul A. Biane Public Library and the Lewis Family Playhouse. The Playhouse offerings have returned to pre-Pandemic levels and attracted diverse audiences.
The Paul A. Biane Public Library, a national award-winning library, is developing the second floor of its facility. “The Randall Lewis Second Story and Beyond®️,” the next chapter in the library’s legacy recently opened. The top-floor interactive discovery space is the first of its kind in the nation where a public library offers a dedicated area for “sneaky learning” with a STEM lab and art studio.
The space features about a dozen museum-quality exhibits where families can play interactively and learn together. The innovative space is expected to become a major attraction for the region, as there are no similar facilities nearby.
CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ENRICHMENT
Rancho Cucamonga also invests in inclusive community services. A new playground at Beryl Park East caters to individuals of all abilities, and the adaptive sports program empowers people with physical disabilities. The City’s new dog park has also been wildly successful.
Public art initiatives, such as mini mural projects and utility box art programs, feature local artists and enhance the City’s aesthetic appeal. “We aim to create spaces where people want to hang out after work and enjoy free entertainment,” Sowles adds.
STRATEGIC VISION
The strategic vision for Rancho Cucamonga focuses on creating a balanced and sustainable urban environment. This includes fostering mixed-use developments that blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The City aims to reduce reliance on cars, encourage public transit use, and create walkable neighborhoods by promoting high-density, mixed-use developments along key corridors, all while preserving the character of its existing neighborhoods.
“Our strategic vision is to create a city that is not just a place to live but a place to thrive,” Burris says. “We want to build communities where people can live, work, and play without having to travel long distances.”
Sustainability is at the heart of Rancho Cucamonga’s growth plans. The City is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, enhancing green spaces, and promoting environmentally friendly practices. This includes expanding public transit options, encouraging the use of electric vehicles, and developing green infrastructure.
“We’re investing in projects that will make Rancho Cucamonga a leader in sustainability,” Sowles states. “From our high-speed passenger rail project to our green building initiatives, we’re committed to creating a sustainable future for our residents.”
ECONOMIC DIVERSITY
By attracting a wide range of businesses, from high-tech firms to artisanal shops, Rancho Cucamonga ensures a resilient economy that can weather economic fluctuations. The City’s efforts to attract professional services and high-end retail have already paid off, as evidenced by new businesses coming to the city including FiveStar Gourmet Foods, Seasons 52 and Sanctity Hotel Rancho Cucamonga, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
“We’re not just looking for big corporations; we’re also supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs,” Burris says.
Engaging with the community is important to the success of Rancho Cucamonga’s plans. The City regularly solicits feedback from residents through public meetings, surveys, and social media. This input helps shape policies and projects, ensuring they meet the community’s needs and expectations.
“We believe in a collaborative approach to city planning,” Sowles notes. “Our residents are our partners in building the future of Rancho Cucamonga. Their input and participation are crucial to our success.”
DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY
In today’s digital age, connectivity encompasses access to information and technology. Rancho Cucamonga is investing in fiber-optic infrastructure to provide residents with high-speed broadband internet services. The initiative includes expanding free public Wi-Fi in parks and public spaces and offering digital literacy programs.
“We’re committed to bridging the digital divide and ensuring all residents can participate in the digital economy,” Sowles explains. “Our goal is to make Rancho Cucamonga a digitally connected community.”
HIDDEN GEM OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Rancho Cucamonga’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and strategic growth. From its agricultural roots to its modern-day status as a thriving urban center, the City’s journey is a testament to the power of visionary planning and community-driven development. As it continues to evolve, Rancho Cucamonga stands to achieve even greater heights, offering a high quality of life and abundant opportunities for all who call it home.
“We hear over and over again that people are surprised by what Rancho Cucamonga has to offer,” Burris says. “The objective is to transition from a hidden gem to a well-known jewel.”
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AT A GLANCE
Rancho Cucamonga, California
Where: Located at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in San Bernardino County, California.
What: A suburban city in San Bernardino County, California, experiencing significant growth and development, particularly in its mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial developments, and recreational amenities.
Website: https://www.cityofrc.us/
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