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Gardena, California
Gardena, California
Gardena, California
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Gardena is a city located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, California, United States. The population was 61,027 at the 2020 census, up from 58,829 at the 2010 census. Until 2014, the U.S. census cited the City of Gardena as the place with the highest percentage of Japanese Americans in California.[9] Gardena's Japanese American population contributes to the South Bay region of Los Angeles being home to the highest density of Japanese companies within the mainland United States.[10]

Key Information

History

[edit]
Don Manuel Domínguez, a signer of the Californian Constitution and owner of Rancho San Pedro, which included all of modern-day Gardena

Based on archaeological findings, the Tongva people hunted and fished in the area of today's Gardena.[11] The Tongva Indians – also known as Gabrielino Indians – are probably descendants of those who crossed from Asia to North America around 10,000 years ago.[11]

In 1784, three years after the foundation of Los Angeles, Juan Jose Dominguez (1736–1809), a Spanish soldier who arrived in San Diego, California in 1769 with Fernando Rivera y Moncada, in recognition of his military service, received the roughly 43,000-acre (170 km2) Spanish land grant, the Rancho San Pedro. Part of this land contained what became known as Gardena Valley.[11] After the American Civil War veterans bought parts of the land, and soon ranchers and farmers followed suit.[11] Union Army Major General William Starke Rosecrans in 1869 bought 16,000 acres (65 km2). The "Rosecrans Rancho" was bordered by what later was Florence Avenue on the north, Redondo Beach Boulevard on the south, Central Avenue on the east, and Arlington Avenue on the west. The Rosecrans property was subdivided and sold in the early 1870s. One of those became the 650-acre (2.6 km2) Amestoy Ranch. Gardena proper began in 1887 when the Pomeroy & Harrison real estate developers subdivided the ranch, anticipating the coming of the Los Angeles and Redondo Railway. Civil War veteran Spencer Roane Thorpe is credited with starting the first settlement in Gardena in 1887.[11] Railroads put Gardena on the map following a 1880s Southern California real estate boom.[11]

Some believe the city was named for its reputation for being the only "green spot" in the dry season between Los Angeles and the sea.[11] Because of its acres of berries, the city was dubbed "Berryland".[11] The Strawberry Day Festival and Parade was held each May.[11] The berry industry suffered at the time of World War I as other crops were supported by the war economy.[12]

Japanese Americans settled in Gardena throughout its history.[13] The only way Gardena could protect itself from a heavy county tax imposed on a planned project at a park site was to incorporate.[12] The City of Gardena became incorporated on September 11, 1930.[12]

From 1936 to 1980, Gardena held a local monopoly on legal cardrooms, the taxes from which accounted for nearly a third of its annual budget.[14][15] As this Los Angeles suburb grew, many Japanese American families moved into the new tract homes being built.[16][17]

Geography

[edit]
Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve is a remnant of Dominguez Slough

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.9 square miles (15 km2), over 99% of which is land. A 9.4-acre (3.8 ha) wetland preserve, the Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve, is located at the southeast corner of Gardena. This is a naturally occurring marshland where water seeps above-ground all year round. It hosts several species of trees and other vegetation.

Gardena is bordered by the unincorporated community of Athens on the north, the Los Angeles neighborhood of Harbor Gateway on the east and south, Torrance on the southwest, Alondra Park on the west, and Hawthorne on the northwest.

Neighborhoods in Gardena include:

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
19405,909—
195014,405143.8%
196035,943149.5%
197041,02114.1%
198045,16510.1%
199049,84710.4%
200057,74615.8%
201058,8291.9%
202061,0273.7%
U.S. decennial census[19]
1860–1870[20][21] 1880-1890[22]
1900[23] 1910[24] 1920[25]
1930[26] 1940[27] 1950[28]
1960[29][30] 1970[31] 1980[32]
1990[33] 2000[34] 2010[35]
2020[36]

Gardena first appeared as a city in the 1940 U.S. census[27] as part of Inglewood Township (pop. 38,637 in 1930).[26]

Gardena city, California – racial and ethnic composition
Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.
Race / ethnicity (NH = Non-Hispanic) Pop 2000[37] Pop 2010[38] Pop 2020[36] % 2000 % 2010 % 2020
White alone (NH) 7,064 5,484 4,819 12.23% 9.32% 7.90%
Black or African American alone (NH) 14,701 14,034 13,006 25.46% 23.86% 21.31%
Native American or Alaska Native alone (NH) 129 100 106 0.22% 0.17% 0.17%
Asian alone (NH) 15,363 15,149 15,813 26.60% 25.75% 25.91%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander alone (NH) 381 382 356 0.66% 0.65% 0.58%
Other race alone (NH) 145 174 364 0.25% 0.30% 0.60%
Mixed race or multiracial (NH) 1,591 1,355 2,060 2.76% 2.30% 3.38%
Hispanic or Latino (any race) 18,372 22,151 24,503 31.82% 37.65% 40.15%
Total 57,746 58,829 61,027 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

2020

[edit]

The 2020 United States census reported that Gardena had a population of 61,027. The population density was 10,469.5 inhabitants per square mile (4,042.3/km2). The racial makeup of Gardena was 11.9% White, 21.8% African American, 1.2% Native American, 26.5% Asian, 0.7% Pacific Islander, 25.9% from other races, and 11.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 40.2% of the population.[39]

The census reported that 98.4% of the population lived in households, 0.4% lived in non-institutionalized group quarters, and 1.3% were institutionalized.[39]

There were 21,571 households, out of which 30.7% included children under the age of 18, 40.7% were married-couple households, 6.4% were cohabiting couple households, 32.7% had a female householder with no partner present, and 20.2% had a male householder with no partner present. 24.7% of households were one person, and 10.8% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.78.[39] There were 14,799 families (68.6% of all households).[40]

The age distribution was 18.9% under the age of 18, 8.5% aged 18 to 24, 28.0% aged 25 to 44, 27.1% aged 45 to 64, and 17.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40.6 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.9 males.[39]

There were 22,393 housing units at an average density of 3,841.7 units per square mile (1,483.3 units/km2), of which 21,571 (96.3%) were occupied. Of these, 47.3% were owner-occupied, and 52.7% were occupied by renters.[39]

In 2023, the US Census Bureau estimated that the median household income was $79,291, and the per capita income was $35,807. About 7.7% of families and 11.0% of the population were below the poverty line.[41]

2010

[edit]

The 2010 United States census[42] reported that Gardena had a population of 58,829. The population density was 10,030.0 inhabitants per square mile (3,872.6/km2). The racial composition of Gardena was 14,498 (24.6%) white (9.3% Non-Hispanic White),[43] 14,352 (24.4%) black, 348 (0.6%) Native American, 15,400 (26.2%) Asian, 426 (0.7%) Pacific Islander, 11,136 (18.9%) from other races, and 2,669 (4.5%) from two or more races. There were 22,151 people of Hispanic or Latino origin, of any race (37.7%).

The Census reported that 58,035 people (98.7% of the population) lived in households, 122 (0.2%) lived in non-institutionalized group quarters, and 672 (1.1%) were institutionalized.

There were 20,558 households, out of which 7,199 (35.0%) had children under the age of 18 living in them, 8,782 (42.7%) were opposite-sex married couples living together, 3,931 (19.1%) had a female householder with no husband present, 1,486 (7.2%) had a male householder with no wife present. There were 1,085 (5.3%) unmarried opposite-sex partnerships, and 104 (0.5%) same-sex married couples or partnerships. 5,142 households (25.0%) were made up of individuals, and 1,921 (9.3%) had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.82. There were 14,199 families (69.1% of all households); the average family size was 3.39.

The population was spread out, with 13,410 people (22.8%) under the age of 18, 5,353 people (9.1%) aged 18 to 24, 16,656 people (28.3%) aged 25 to 44, 15,086 people (25.6%) aged 45 to 64, and 8,324 people (14.1%) who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37.9 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.8 males.

There were 21,472 housing units at an average density of 3,660.8 per square mile (1,413.4/km2), of which 9,852 (47.9%) were owner-occupied, and 10,706 (52.1%) were occupied by renters. The homeowner vacancy rate was 1.3%; the rental vacancy rate was 4.6%. 28,585 people (48.6% of the population) lived in owner-occupied housing units and 29,450 people (50.1%) lived in rental housing units.

During 2009–2013, Gardena had a median household income of $48,251, with 15.5% of the population living below the federal poverty line.[43]

2000

[edit]

As of the 2000 census[44] of 2000, there were 57,746 people, 20,324 households, and 14,023 families residing in the city. The population density was 9,921.3 inhabitants per square mile (3,830.6/km2). There were 21,041 housing units at an average density of 3,615.0 per square mile (1,395.8/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 23.82% White, 25.99% Black or African American, 0.64% Native American, 26.82% Asian, 0.73% Pacific Islander, 16.94% from other races, and 5.05% from two or more races. 31.82% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Mexican and Japanese were the most common ancestries. Mexico and Korea were the most common foreign places of birth.[45]

1980

[edit]

In 1980, about 31% of the population was Anglo white, 23% was black, 21% was Japanese, and 17% was Latino. The remainder included a Korean community that was increasing in size and Chinese, Filipino, and Native American people. The National Planning Data Corp. released projected figures in 1987 estimating that of the 50,000 residents, 26.3% were Anglo, 23% were black, 22.7 were Latino, and 28% were of other racial groups. By 1989, Anglo and Japanese residents tended to live in central and southern Gardena. Middle class black people began to move into the Hollypark area in northern Gardena in the 1960s, so the black population was concentrated there.[46]

1970–1978

[edit]

According to the 1970 U.S. Census, 56% of the population was white. Racial demographic changes occurred until 1978. That year, Mayor Edmond J. Russ declared that according to a special 1978 census, the racial demographics of Gardena had stabilized.[47]

Japanese Americans

[edit]
See also: History of the Japanese in Los Angeles
Okinawa Association
Buddhist temple

Gardena has a large Japanese-American community.[48] Until 2014, it had the second-highest concentration of Japanese Americans in any U.S. municipality, the first being Honolulu. As of 2014, the nearby city of Torrance holds the highest Japanese-American population in the 48 contiguous states.[49]

The Japanese Cultural Institute (JCI) has been is located in Gardena since 1988, and offers cultural and social activities for Japanese Americans. The building used during that year was completed in 1976.[50]

Early in Gardena's history, Japanese migrants played a role in the agrarian economy. The Japanese Association founded the Moneta Japanese Institute in 1911, and the Parents' Association founded the Gardena Japanese School in 1916.[51] Beginning in the 1920s, Japanese American organizations, including the Moneta Gakuen, were established continuously around the current JCI site. The Moneta Gakuen operated a school until the World War II internment.[50]

In 1942 the U.S. military moved the Japanese in Gardena to internment camps.[51]

In 1966, for the first time, a Nisei, Kiyoto Ken Nakaoka, was seated on the city council.[52] Nakaoka later became Gardena's mayor in 1972.[53] In 1980, the city was 21% Japanese, and as of 1989, Japanese residents tended to live in the center and south of the city.[46]

Korean Americans

[edit]
See also: History of the Korean Americans in Los Angeles

As of 1992, about 60% of the Korean population in the South Bay region lived in Gardena and Torrance. By that year, many Korean businesses had been established in Gardena because its commercial land was more affordable than that of Torrance, a middle-class base, and it also had an established East Asian population.[54] In 1990, 2,857 ethnic Koreans lived in Gardena, a 209% increase from the 1980 figure of 924.[54]

Economy

[edit]

Digital Manga is headquartered in Suite 300 at 1487 West 178th Street.[55] Nissin Foods has its United States headquarters and a plant in Gardena.[56][57] Nissin Foods (U.S.A.) Co., Inc. opened in Gardena in 1970.[58] Marukai Corporation U.S.A. has its headquarters in Gardena.[59] Nissan's North America headquarters were located in Gardena until they moved to Tennessee in 2006.

National Stores Inc., which operates the Factory 2-U and the Fallas Paredes brands, has its headquarters in the Harbor Gateway area of Los Angeles,[60] near Gardena.[61]

Gardena hosts one of the big donuts of Southern California

Top employers

[edit]

According to the city's 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report,[62] the top employers in the city as of 2020 were:

# Employer # of Employees
1 United Parcel Service Inc. 789
2 Gardena Memorial Hospital 750
3 Nissin Foods 550
4 Hustler Casino 465
5 Air Fayre 289
6 Avcorp 289
7 Larry Flynt's Lucky Lady Casino 245
8 Southwest Offset Printing 235
9 Kindred Hospital South Bay 225
10 Target 200

Government

[edit]

In the California State Senate, Gardena is split between the 24th senatorial district, represented by Democrat Ben Allen and the 35th senatorial district, represented by Democrat Laura Richardson. In the California State Assembly, it is split between the 61st Assembly district, represented by Democrat Tina McKinnor and the 66th Assembly district, represented by Democrat Al Muratsuchi.[63]

In the United States House of Representatives, Gardena is in California's 43rd congressional district, represented by Democrat Maxine Waters.[64]

Education

[edit]

Primary and secondary schools

[edit]
Gardena High School is in Los Angeles, next to Gardena

The Los Angeles Unified School District covers all of Gardena,[65] and operates the city's public schools.

Elementary schools in the city limits[66] include:

  • 153rd Street Elementary School[67]
  • Amestoy Elementary School[68]
  • Chapman Elementary School[69]
  • Denker Avenue Elementary School[70]

Elementary schools physically in the City of Los Angeles,[66] but with Gardena postal address names, include:

  • 186th Street Elementary[71]
  • Gardena Elementary School[72]

Zoned middle schools include:

  • Peary Middle School (City of Gardena)[73]
    • Some areas in Gardena have a choice between Peary and Henry Clay Middle School.[74] (Los Angeles)

Zoned high schools include:

In the spring of 1956, the junior high school classes stayed at the old Gardena High School while the high school classes moved into a new building. Up until the opening of the new Gardena High School, high school students held morning shifts, while junior high school students held afternoon shifts.[75]

The northern end of the Gardena HS campus has LAUSD staff housing, Sage Park Apartments.[76]

Area charter schools include:

  • Environmental Charter High School - Gardena[77]
  • Environmental Charter Middle School - Gardena (located in the City of Los Angeles but has a Gardena address)[78]
  • KIPP Generations Academy (opened in 2022 and closed in 2024)[79]

Private schools

[edit]

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles operates Catholic schools in Gardena, including Junípero Serra High School,[80] Maria Regina Catholic School (K-8),[81] and St. Anthony of Padua School (K-8).[82] Pacific Lutheran Jr./Sr. High school, a 6-12 non-Catholic private school, is in Gardena.[83] The Gardena Christian Academy, a PreK-2 Christian school, is in Gardena.[84]

Infrastructure

[edit]

Public services

[edit]

The Gardena Office of Economic Development is a department of the city government. It aids employers in filling a variety of jobs customized to their specific needs. It also helps potential employers in setting up business enterprises.

The Gardena Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency in the city. The department has 89 sworn police officers, 24 full-time support staff, and 33 part-time employees. There are reserve, volunteer, and explorer programs. The current Chief of Police is Michael Saffell, appointed in 2020. Radio communications and the 9-1-1 call center are handled by the South Bay Regional Public Communications Authority.

The Los Angeles County Department of Health Services operates the Curtis Tucker Health Center in Inglewood and the Torrance Health Center in Harbor Gateway, Los Angeles, near Torrance and serving Gardena.[85][86]

The United States Postal Service operates the Gardena Post Office at 1455 West Redondo Beach Boulevard,[87] the South Gardena Post Office at 1103 West Gardena Boulevard,[88] and the Alondra Post Office at 14028 Van Ness Avenue.[89]

Libraries

[edit]
Gardena branch of LA County Library

Gardena Mayme Dear Library, a 16,000-square-foot (1,500 m2) building located in Gardena,[90] and Masao W. Satow Library, located west of Gardena in Alondra Park (El Camino Village), unincorporated Los Angeles County,[91][92] are operated by the County of Los Angeles Public Library.

Wednesday Progressive Club sponsored the formation of the Gardena Library.[90] In 1913 the Moneta Branch was formed.[91] In 1914 the Gardena Library became a part of the Los Angeles County Free Library system. Due to annexation the library was transferred to the Los Angeles City Library Board.[90] In 1919 the Strawberry Park branch was formed.[91] In August 1951 the Gardena library came back to the county system.[90] In 1958 the Strawberry Park and Moneta branches merged into the West Gardena Branch.[91] The current Gardena library building was dedicated on December 5, 1964.[90] In 1969 a fire forced the West Gardena branch to go to a new location. The current Satow building, dedicated on February 26, 1977, was named after a Japanese American in the community.[91] The Gardena library received its current name on May 30, 1992, and was named after a library volunteer, who had died prior to the renaming.[90]

Transportation

[edit]
Rosecrans Metro Silver Line station at Gardena

The city operates the GTrans bus services (formerly as Gardena Municipal Bus Lines).

The National Transportation Safety Board operates the Gardena Aviation Field Office in Harbor Gateway, Los Angeles; it is the regional headquarters of the NTSB Aviation Western Region.[93]

Notable people

[edit]

Sister cities

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Gardena, California

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Gardena is a city in , , located in the South Bay region approximately 13 miles south-southeast of . Incorporated on September 11, 1930, by consolidating the rural communities of Gardena, , and Strawberry Park, it covers 5.9 square miles and functions as a full-service . As of 2023, Gardena had an estimated of 59,829, reflecting a diverse ethnic composition with significant Asian, , and residents, and a age of 39.8 years. The city's economy features a household income of $79,291, supporting residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and light manufacturing, while maintaining pro-business policies amid the broader metropolitan area. Gardena's development has been shaped by post-incorporation growth, including historical reliance on revenues from 1936 to 1980, though it now emphasizes community services, public transit access via the Metro Silver Line, and preservation efforts like the Gardena Willows Wetland.

History

Pre-Incorporation Settlement

The region encompassing modern Gardena was originally utilized by the people, also known as Gabrielino Indians, who engaged in hunting and fishing activities there, though archaeological evidence indicates no permanent villages were established in the immediate area. During the Spanish colonial era, the land formed part of , a 43,119-acre grant awarded to soldier Juan José Domínguez between 1784 and 1800 for the purpose of raising sheep and cattle. Following Mexican independence in 1821, the rancho remained under family control, with Manuel Domínguez, a nephew of the original grantee, managing and subdividing portions in the mid-19th century; the U.S. confirmed the land title via patent in 1858. After California's annexation by the in 1848, larger parcels of the rancho were sold to American investors, including General William Starke Rosecrans, who acquired about 16,000 acres in 1869 at $2.50 per acre and resold subdivided lots in the 1870s for $50 per acre. Early farming operations, such as the McDonald Ranch, emerged on these lands, transitioning from ranching to crop cultivation including , barley, tomatoes, and berries, facilitated by irrigation from the Dominguez Slough. Permanent Anglo-American settlement commenced in the 1880s, spearheaded by Civil War veteran Spencer R. Thorpe, a Ventura resident credited with founding the initial community in Gardena Valley near the intersection of 161st and . In , developers Pomeroy and Harrison subdivided former Rosecrans holdings, formally laying out the townsite of Gardena, named possibly after its fertile "garden spot" qualities or proposed by early residents like Thorpe or others including Nettie Thompson and Mr. Harris. By 1889, the town center had shifted to Vermont Avenue and 166th , fostering growth as a small agricultural enclave that reached approximately 20,000 residents by the eve of incorporation in 1930.

Incorporation and Early 20th-Century Development

Gardena's development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries centered on agriculture, beginning with settlement in the 1880s by Spencer R. Thorpe, who established the first community near the intersection of modern-day 161st Street and in the fertile Gardena Valley. In 1887, real estate developers Pomeroy & Harrison subdivided portions of the former McDonald Ranch, an area of approximately 800 acres, in anticipation of the Los Angeles and Redondo Railway's extension, which facilitated access to markets and spurred initial land sales for farming. The region's name derived from its reputation as a "garden spot" due to the productive soil near Laguna Dominguez, supporting crops like , with local production reaching one million bushels annually by 1880. By the early 1900s, Japanese immigrants significantly expanded the area's agrarian economy, particularly through labor-intensive strawberry cultivation in Gardena, , and adjacent Strawberry Park. These farmers introduced efficient methods that boosted yields, contributing to California's broader Japanese-controlled agricultural output, which by 1920 encompassed over 450,000 acres statewide and supplied more than 10% of the state's truck crops. Community institutions emerged to support this population, including the Japanese Institute founded in 1911 by the Japanese Association. Housing tracts began appearing in the , reflecting gradual amid sustained farming, though the area remained predominantly rural. The City of Gardena incorporated on , 1930, merging the unincorporated communities of Gardena, Moneta, and Strawberry Park into a sixth-class to provide local governance and services for its approximately 20,000 residents. This step addressed the needs of a growing farming populace, though economic challenges persisted into the era.

World War II and Japanese American Internment Impact

Prior to the ' entry into , Gardena hosted a thriving Japanese American community, with over 8,000 individuals of Japanese descent comprising a substantial portion of the local population and owning or operating nearly one-third of the town's businesses, primarily in such as truck farming. These enterprises contributed significantly to the South Bay's agrarian economy, fostering economic envy among some non-Japanese residents that later fueled support for relocation policies amid postwar hysteria following the December 7, 1941, . Following President Franklin D. Roosevelt's issuance of on February 19, 1942, which authorized the exclusion of persons of Japanese ancestry from designated military zones along the West Coast, Gardena's Japanese American residents—along with approximately 110,000 others nationwide, including 126,947 in per the 1940 —faced forced evacuation. Local families were typically given one to ten days' notice to dispose of property and report to assembly centers, such as the Santa Anita Racetrack in nearby Arcadia, before transfer to remote internment camps like in Inyo or Poston in . This process resulted in widespread asset liquidation at severe losses, with collectively forfeiting an estimated $400 million in property value nationwide, including farms, homes, and businesses in Gardena that were often sold under duress or vandalized in their absence. The profoundly disrupted Gardena's social and economic fabric, halting Japanese-operated agricultural production that had been integral to the area's market gardening and leaving vacant lands and shuttered enterprises. Community institutions, such as Japanese-language schools and Buddhist temples, ceased operations, while the sudden exodus shifted short-term demographic balances and strained local relations, with some non-Japanese neighbors exploiting the vacuum to acquire properties at discounted rates. Despite these hardships, a portion of Gardena's internees demonstrated loyalty through military service, including in the segregated 442nd , which suffered heavy casualties in Europe while their families remained incarcerated. The policy's implementation reflected wartime security rationales citing potential sabotage risks—though subsequent investigations found no substantiated by —leading to long-term economic scarring for returnees who faced hostility, restricted housing, and rebuilding challenges upon partial camp closures starting in 1944.

Postwar Expansion and Ethnic Shifts

Following , Gardena underwent significant suburban expansion as agricultural lands were converted to amid California's broader postwar housing boom, which saw approximately six million units constructed statewide from 1945 to 1975 to accommodate returning veterans and influxes. The city's surged from 14,405 in 1950 to 35,943 in 1960 and 41,021 in 1970, reflecting this shift from rural farming to residential development driven by federal financing like loans and highway construction enabling commuter suburbs in the area. This growth transformed Gardena into a middle-class enclave, with playing a key role in landscaping and building the suburban landscape after their release from internment camps, leveraging skills in gardening amid labor market segregation. Ethnic composition shifted markedly during this period, beginning with the resettlement of who had been interned during the war; by the , they formed suburban enclaves in Gardena, contributing to its emergence as a hub for Japanese American community institutions and businesses rooted in prewar foundations. In 1970, whites comprised 56% of the population, but subsequent decades saw diversification through African American migration—middle-class blacks began arriving in the , drawn by and proximity to jobs in and manufacturing—and later Latino influxes tied to regional labor patterns. By 1980, demographics had evolved to approximately 31% white (Anglo), 23% Black, 21% , and 17% Latino, with the remainder including , Chinese, and Native Americans; these groups coexisted peacefully yet separately, amid some white population decline.

Geography

Location and Physical Features


Gardena lies in the South Bay region of , situated approximately 15 miles (24 km) southeast of and within the broader metropolitan area. The city's geographic coordinates are centered at 33.8944° N and 118.308° W longitude. It occupies a compact urban position amid neighboring municipalities, including Hawthorne and Inglewood to the north, Torrance to the west, Carson to the south, and Compton to the east. The city encompasses a total area of 5.87 square miles (15.20 km²), with over 99% designated as land and minimal water coverage. Elevation averages 49 feet (15 m) above sea level, reflecting its position on the flat alluvial coastal plain of the Los Angeles Basin. Topography features only modest variations, with a maximum elevation change of about 105 feet within a 2-mile radius, characteristic of the sediment-deposited lowlands formed by ancient river systems from the San Gabriel and Santa Monica Mountains. No significant natural elevations, rivers, or geological formations dominate; the landscape has been extensively modified for urban development, including residential, commercial, and light industrial uses.

Climate and Environmental Factors

![Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve 2023 June 02.jpg][float-right] Gardena experiences a warm-summer classified as Köppen Csb, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average annual totals approximately 14 inches, primarily occurring during the winter months from to , with recording the highest monthly average of 1.5 inches. The hottest month is , with average highs of 77°F and lows of 66°F, while the coolest period spans early winter, with average highs around 66°F in . Snowfall is negligible, averaging 0 inches annually. The city faces environmental challenges including poor air quality, exacerbated by its location near major freeways and industrial zones in the . All census tracts in Gardena are designated as disadvantaged communities for pollution exposure under state assessments, with elevated risks from formation, wildfire smoke, and vehicular emissions contributing to moderate to unhealthy air quality indices at times. Seismic activity poses a significant hazard, as lies in a high-risk zone with multiple active faults nearby, necessitating adherence to stringent building codes under the . Conservation efforts include the Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve, a 13.6-acre federally protected site that preserves a remnant riparian amid urban development, supporting , stormwater filtration, and community . The preserve enhances local by managing runoff and serves as a green oasis, countering habitat loss in the densely populated South Bay region.

Demographics

Population Growth and Census Data

The population of Gardena was recorded as 58,829 in the 2010 decennial . This figure increased to 61,027 by the 2020 decennial , reflecting a decadal growth of 3.7 percent, or 2,198 additional residents. The growth rate aligned with broader suburban trends in County but remained modest compared to earlier 20th-century expansions. Post-2020 estimates from the U.S. Bureau indicate a reversal, with the figure declining to 60,823 in 2021, 60,377 in 2022, and 59,765 in 2023. By July 1, 2024, the estimated stood at 58,921, representing a 3.6 percent decrease from the 2020 base of 61,024. This recent contraction may stem from regional costs, migration patterns, and economic pressures in the area, though specific causal data for Gardena remains limited in summaries.
Decennial Census YearPopulationPercent Change from Prior Decade
201058,829-
202061,027+3.7%

Racial and Ethnic Breakdown

As of the 2022 American Community Survey 5-year estimates, Hispanics or Latinos of any race constitute the largest ethnic group in Gardena, comprising 43.9% of the population (approximately 26,200 individuals out of a total of about 59,700). This marks substantial growth from 31.8% in the , reflecting broader immigration and settlement patterns in the area. The racial composition is diverse, with Asians forming the largest non-Hispanic racial group at 24.4% (around 14,600 people), including a historically prominent community that has shaped local and since the postwar era; alone accounted for about 9.7% of the population in earlier data, contributing to Gardena's reputation for one of California's highest concentrations outside major urban centers. represent 18.5% (roughly 11,000 residents), while non-Hispanic Whites make up approximately 11-14% depending on categorization, with smaller shares for other groups such as American Indian/Alaska Native (1.8%) and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (0.1%). The "some other race" category, often associated with respondents not identifying with standard racial options, accounts for about 23% in total racial tallies.
Racial/Ethnic GroupPercentageApproximate Population (2022 est.)
Hispanic or Latino (any race)43.9%26,200
Asian24.4%14,600
Black or African American18.5%11,000
(non-Hispanic)~11%~6,600
Some other race~23%~13,700
Two or more races~17%~10,100
These figures highlight Gardena's shift toward greater and Asian majorities, driven by migration and differing birth rates, with the Asian demographic bolstered by established communities rather than recent surges.

Socioeconomic Indicators

The median household income in Gardena stood at $79,291 (in 2023 dollars) according to the (ACS) 2019–2023 estimates, marking a 5% increase from $75,530 in 2020 and equating to roughly 101% of the contemporaneous U.S. national median but 86% of California's $91,905 statewide figure. over the same period was $35,807, reflecting contributions from a diverse including , retail, and service sectors amid County's competitive labor market. Poverty impacted 11.0% of Gardena in 2019–2023, lower than the national rate of 12.5% but aligned with California's 12.2%; was lower at 7.7%, indicative of structures providing some buffering against individual economic pressures. The rate reached 6.2% in 2023, exceeding the U.S. average of 3.6% and California's 4.8%, attributable in part to regional factors such as slower recovery in goods-producing industries post-pandemic and structural mismatches in skills for available jobs. Educational attainment among adults aged 25 and older revealed 82.5% with at least a or equivalent—marginally below the national 89.0% but comparable to the Los Angeles metro area's 82.2%—and 23.1% possessing a or higher, versus 34.3% nationally and 36.0% statewide, patterns linked to historical waves and varying access to higher education in South Bay communities. Homeownership stood at 45.8% of occupied housing units in 2019–2023, below both the U.S. (65.7%) and (55.3%) rates, constrained by high regional housing costs and a home value exceeding $800,000 that favors renters in multi-family units.
IndicatorValue (2019–2023 ACS unless noted)Comparison to U.S.
Median Household Income$79,291101% of national
$35,80778% of national (~$45,800)
11.0%Below national 12.5%
High School or Higher (25+)82.5%Below national 89.0%
Bachelor's or Higher (25+)23.1%Below national 34.3%
Owner-Occupied Housing45.8%Below national 65.7%
Unemployment Rate (2023)6.2%Above national 3.6%

Economy

Key Industries and Business Environment

Gardena's economy centers on service-oriented and industrial sectors, employing 30,400 residents in 2023, with and social assistance leading at 3,623 jobs, followed by retail trade (3,188 jobs), (2,932 jobs), transportation and warehousing (2,240 jobs), and accommodation and food services (1,964 jobs). These sectors reflect the city's integration into the metropolitan area, where logistics benefits from proximity to the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, handling over 9.5 million TEUs annually as of 2023, and leverages regional supply chains in and automotive components. Employment dipped 1.06% from 30,700 in 2022 to 30,400 in 2023, amid broader South Bay trends of stabilization post-pandemic, though emerging niches like —exemplified by GrayMatter Robotics' operations—signal potential growth in advanced . The business environment supports diversification through strategic location advantages, including direct access to Interstate 110 and 405 freeways, facilitating distribution and commuting to , and a 3.6% commercial vacancy rate indicating steady demand. Municipal policies emphasize pro-business incentives, such as a program for business assistance and revitalization of commercial districts, earning Gardena finalist status for the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation's "Most Business-Friendly City" award in 2025 for populations over 60,000. Targeted industries include advanced , drawing on historical ties to Japanese automotive firms and suppliers like Permaswage and Valence Surface Technologies, alongside expansions tied to regional tourism from venues like . Major employers span (e.g., ), retail (Target), gaming (), and (UPS), contributing to a of $79,291 in 2023 and an unemployment rate of 6.2% as of recent monthly data. This mix underscores causal factors like infrastructural connectivity driving resilience, while labor market tightness—exacerbated by California's hikes to $16 per hour in 2024—pressures smaller firms amid 1.8% to 60,785. Gardena's economy features a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and logistics, with notable concentrations in and distribution. Key employers include (USA) Co., Inc., a major instant noodle manufacturer employing over 500 workers in production and operations; (UPS), operating a significant regional hub for package sorting and delivery; and Memorial Hospital of Gardena, providing services with approximately 750 staff. The gaming sector also contributes substantially, with card casinos such as Hustler Casino and Normandie Casino employing hundreds in and gaming operations, capitalizing on state regulations permitting non-house-banked poker games.
Largest Employment Sectors (2023)Employees
Health Care & Social Assistance3,623
Retail Trade3,089
2,874
Employment trends indicate modest contraction amid broader South Bay influences from and automotive supply chains. Total employment fell 1.06% from 30,700 in 2022 to 30,400 in 2023, reflecting slowdowns in and retail amid national disruptions and pressures. The unemployment rate remained at 6.2% in August 2025, aligning with County averages but exceeding the statewide figure, attributable to structural shifts away from traditional toward service-oriented roles. Local innovation in -adjacent persists, supported by proximity to firms like and in the region, though overall job growth lags due to high operational costs and labor market tightness.

Government and Politics

Municipal Governance Structure

Gardena operates under a council-manager form of government, as codified in Chapter 2.12 of the Gardena Municipal Code, which establishes the city manager as the responsible for executing council policies, managing daily operations, and overseeing city departments. The five-member City Council functions as the legislative and policy-making body, holding authority over ordinances, budgets, land use decisions, and appointments such as the . Council members are elected to four-year staggered terms by voters in their respective districts, with elections held in even-numbered years; no individual may serve more than three consecutive terms. The selects one of its members to serve as and another as annually, with the presiding over meetings, signing documents, and acting as the ceremonial head of the without separate executive veto powers or enhanced administrative duties. As of October 2025, the consists of Tasha Cerda, Pro Tem Mark E. Henderson, and Council Members Rodney G. Tanaka, Paulette C. Francis, and Wanda Love. The , responsible for recording proceedings and managing elections, and the , who oversees financial reporting and investments, are elected positions serving four-year terms, further aligning with general law requirements. Advisory bodies, including commissions on , parks, and , are appointed by the to provide input on specialized issues, ensuring community involvement in without legislative . meetings occur biweekly on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. in the , with public comment periods mandated for agenda items and non-agenda matters under the . This structure emphasizes administration over strong-mayor executive control, common in general law cities like Gardena to promote efficiency in a population of approximately 61,000.

Electoral Patterns and Policy Influences

Gardena exhibits electoral patterns aligned with the broader Democratic lean of , where the city has contributed to consistent Democratic victories in presidential elections since at least 2000. Local data, while not publicly broken down by party at the city level in recent state reports, mirrors countywide trends with Democrats comprising a plurality of registered voters, followed by no-party-preference and Republicans. This demographic, including significant Asian American (particularly Japanese and Korean) and Hispanic communities, supports progressive-leaning outcomes in federal races within , represented by Democrat . City council elections, held non-partisan every two years for five seats and a mayor, emphasize incumbency and local issues over ideological divides. In the March 2024 election, Mayor Pro Tem Mark Henderson secured re-election with approximately 1,200 votes (leading the field), while Councilmember Paulette Francis retained her seat with over 1,000 votes, defeating challengers including Aimee Midori Yamada. Similarly, the 2020 election saw Henderson and newcomer Roy Kim (Korean American) win council seats with the highest vote shares amid low turnout typical of off-year municipal races. Historical contests, such as the 2013 mayoral race won by Paul Tanaka (a former Republican-affiliated sheriff's deputy), highlight occasional moderate or law-enforcement-focused candidates, though scandals involving Tanaka led to his resignation in 2014 without altering the council's pragmatic orientation. These electoral outcomes directly shape policy through council approvals of budgets, zoning, and ballot measures prioritizing fiscal stability and public services. The passage of Measure G in March 2020, which extended a half-cent increase (bringing the rate to 10.25%) for police, , and infrastructure funding, garnered majority support (over 55% yes votes) and generated ongoing revenue for essential operations amid post-recession recovery needs. Subsequent councils, including the current one led by Mayor Tasha Cerda (appointed in 2009, reflecting continuity from Democratic state legislator Steven Bradford's tenure), have influenced policies on , such as supporting retention and transit improvements, while adhering to strict local limits praised for curbing undue influence. Voter-backed measures and incumbent-driven agendas underscore causal priorities on public safety and revenue generation over expansive social programs, distinguishing Gardena's governance from more ideologically driven county-level decisions.

Public Safety

Policing and Law Enforcement

The Gardena Police Department (GPD) provides primary services to the City of Gardena, California, covering approximately 5.97 square miles and a population of around 61,000 residents. Established shortly after the city's incorporation on September 11, 1930, the department began operations under the first Chief of Police, George B. Norman, who was appointed on , 1930, with an initial force consisting solely of the chief himself using a personal vehicle for patrols. Early operations relied on shared facilities with the city clerk's office, telephone communications, and assistance from the substation, with formal radio equipment added in 1935. The department expanded significantly post-World War II, growing from 15 officers in 1947 to 32 by 1957 and 39 by 1963, when it relocated to its current headquarters at 1718 West 162nd Street. As of 2025, GPD employs 145 total personnel, including 99 sworn officers responsible for patrol, investigations, and specialized units. The department is structured into two primary divisions: Operations, which oversees patrol services handling all public calls for service across four shifts managed by lieutenants, along with traffic enforcement, bike patrol, canine units (two grant-funded teams), and transit security for local buses; and Support Services, encompassing the Detective Bureau for crimes against persons and property, youth services, crime suppression (including narcotics and vice), and a special enforcement unit focused on gangs and parolees. Additional components include a Records Bureau operating 24/7 for report management, reserve volunteer officers trained to full standards, and code enforcement addressing public nuisances in coordination with city ordinances. Specialized teams such as SWAT, K-9, and crisis negotiations enhance response capabilities, with district-based policing dividing the city into areas like District 1 (west side) and District 2 (east side) for targeted community engagement. Leadership is headed by Chief Todd Fox, sworn in as the 12th chief in August 2025 after over two decades with GPD, including roles in budget management and contract oversight. The command staff comprises two captains—one for operations (Captain Chris Cuff, overseeing patrols, investigations, and tactical units) and one for support services (Captain David Brock, managing training and equipment)—supported by eight lieutenants handling districts, professional standards, traffic, and administrative functions. GPD emphasizes proactive enforcement, such as DUI checkpoints and gang suppression, while maintaining a policy manual guiding operations toward compliance with state standards. The department's mission centers on "Service with Pride and Professionalism," with ongoing recruitment to sustain staffing amid regional challenges in retention.

Crime Rates and Causal Factors

Gardena experiences a rate of approximately 741 per 100,000 residents, exceeding the national average of around 370 per 100,000, with primary offenses including aggravated assault and . Property crime is notably higher at about 3,226 per 100,000 residents compared to the national figure of 1,954 per 100,000, driven largely by larceny-theft and . These figures, derived from FBI-reported data analyzed in 2021, position Gardena's overall risk above average, though recent state-level trends indicate declines, with California's rate falling 8.4% from 2023 to 2024. Localized data from the Gardena Police Department highlights ongoing monitoring through biweekly reports, showing fluctuations in incidents like burglaries and auto thefts, particularly in 2025 periods such as August, amid broader South Bay patterns of organized property crimes linked to external theft rings targeting vehicles and residences. Violent incidents remain sporadic but elevated relative to safer suburbs, with clearance rates influenced by departmental resources. Contributing factors include Gardena's demographic diversity, with 44% or Latino residents and a rate of 11.1%, correlating empirically with higher property offenses in urban-adjacent areas through economic incentives for amid proximity to higher-crime zones. However, the city's 30-50% Asian American population, characterized by stronger family structures and lower offending rates in national datasets, appears to moderate compared to neighboring regions with higher concentrations of single-parent households or gang affiliations. Policing emphasis on and rapid response, alongside low overall relative to averages (state ~12%), further tempers escalation, though external migratory crime networks challenge property security.

Education

K-12 Public Education System

The K-12 public education system in Gardena primarily operates under the (LAUSD), which oversees multiple elementary schools and Gardena Senior High School serving the city's students. Key elementary schools include Gardena Elementary, 135th Street Elementary, 153rd Street Elementary, 156th Street Elementary, 186th Street Elementary, Amestoy Elementary, and Chapman Elementary, all part of LAUSD. Charter options, such as Environmental Charter Middle School and Environmental Charter High School, provide alternatives within Gardena boundaries. Collectively, these public schools enrolled approximately 7,917 students for the 2025-26 school year across 15 institutions. Gardena Senior High School, the main public high school, served 1,407 students in grades 9-12 during the 2023-24 school year, with a student-teacher ratio of 19:1. The school achieved a 90% four-year rate, exceeding the prior LAUSD district average but aligning with recent district-wide gains to 87% for 2023-24. However, chronic absenteeism reached 48.9% in 2023-24, surpassing the LAUSD average of 31%, while suspension rates were reported at 8.2%. State testing proficiency stood at 14% in mathematics, reflecting challenges in a student body that is 98% minority and 93% economically disadvantaged. Elementary schools exhibit similar demographic profiles and performance trends, with chronic rates varying from 17.7% at 156th Street Elementary to 35.1% at Gardena Elementary in 2023-24. These metrics, drawn from LAUSD and data, highlight persistent issues in attendance and academic outcomes amid high poverty levels, though district efforts have yielded incremental improvements in graduation and since 2022.

Libraries and Adult Education Resources

The primary public library in Gardena is the Gardena Mayme Dear Library, operated by the Los Angeles County Library system and located at 1731 West Gardena Boulevard. This facility, which opened in its current form after renovations, features an enclosed Japanese garden designed by Takuma P. Tono, reflecting the city's significant Japanese American heritage. It provides access to books, movies, music, digital media, and public computers, with operating hours from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from Thursday to Saturday. For adult patrons, the library offers workshops, online learning resources, job training programs, and mental health support services through the LA County Library network. These include free classes in , resume building, and , aimed at supporting workforce re-entry and skill enhancement. The library also facilitates access to the county's broader initiatives, such as ESL classes and citizenship preparation, though core programming emphasizes self-directed learning and community events. Adult education in Gardena is further supported by the George Kiriyama Adult Learning Center at 18120 South Normandie Avenue, a campus of the Maxine Waters Employment Preparation Center under the Los Angeles Unified School District's Division of Adult and Career Education. This center provides tuition-free programs including completion, GED preparation, ESL instruction, and vocational training in fields like healthcare and . Despite a reported closure in by state records, operational listings indicate continued activity as part of LAUSD's adult education network, serving local residents with over 200 community-based classes historically offered. The City of Gardena's Recreation and Human Services Department supplements these resources with non-credit adult classes in areas such as fitness, arts, and , accessible via their CivicRec platform. These offerings, updated as of April 2025, focus on and rather than formal .

Infrastructure

Transportation Networks

Gardena is strategically located at the interchange of Interstate 110 (Harbor Freeway) and Interstate 405 (San Diego Freeway), facilitating connectivity to and the broader region. The city also provides direct access to Interstate 105 (Century Freeway), State Route 91 (Artesia Freeway), and Interstate 710, supporting efficient vehicular travel for residents and commuters. Major arterial roads such as Rosecrans Avenue, Western Avenue, and Vermont Avenue serve local traffic, with the Department overseeing maintenance of approximately 100 miles of streets. Public transit in Gardena is anchored by GTrans, the city's municipal bus system established in 1940, which operates seven fixed routes covering 80 miles daily and connecting to neighboring cities including Hawthorne, Compton, Torrance, Carson, Lawndale, and Inglewood. GTrans lines integrate with County Metro services via the TAP card system, enabling seamless transfers. The Metro J Line (formerly Silver Line), a route, includes key stops in Gardena such as the Harbor Gateway Transit Center and Rosecrans Station at the I-110 interchange, providing express service to and East Los Angeles. Additionally, options like Gardena Special Transit offer demand-responsive service for seniors aged 60 and older and disabled residents within Gardena, Hawthorne, and adjacent unincorporated areas. Gardena's proximity to airports enhances its transportation utility, with (LAX) located approximately 6 miles northwest and Hawthorne Municipal Airport about 2.8 miles away. and local bus routes facilitate access to LAX, though no direct rail link exists from within city limits. Pedestrian and cycling infrastructure remains limited, with efforts focused primarily on bus signal priority enhancements to improve transit reliability.

Public Utilities and Services

Electricity service in Gardena is provided by (SCE), the primary utility serving the city's residents and businesses as part of its broader South Bay region coverage. distribution is handled by the . Potable and recycled services are supplied by Golden State Water Company, which serves the entirety of Gardena along with portions of adjacent communities like Carson and Lawndale, covering more than 54,000 connections in its Southwest district. The City of Gardena levies a 5% utility user tax on charges for , , , and intrastate services, including cellular, to fund municipal operations; exemptions are available for qualifying senior citizens. Solid waste collection, recycling, and bulky item pickup for residential and commercial properties are managed exclusively by Waste Resources of Gardena under a city franchise agreement, with semi-annual bulky waste collections offered to residents. Sewer and storm drain maintenance fall under the jurisdiction of the city's Public Works Department, which responds to service calls for blockages or infrastructure issues via a dedicated hotline. The Department coordinates broader upkeep, including streets, parks, and facilities, to support reliable public services amid Gardena's of approximately 5.7 square miles. Telecommunications options include for landline services and for cable and internet, though these are not municipally operated.

Culture and Community

Japanese American Heritage and Contributions

Japanese immigrants arrived in Gardena in the early , contributing significantly to the area's agrarian economy through farming and labor. By 1911, a Japanese community had formed, establishing the first in the South Bay region of County. During , many from Gardena were forcibly relocated to internment camps, disrupting community structures. Post-war resettlement in the late 1940s and 1950s transformed Gardena into a hub for , with the city hosting one of the highest concentrations in ; according to the 2010 U.S. , Japanese ancestry accounted for about 7% of the population. Key contributions include economic advancements in and ; by 1955, Japanese American men in Los Angeles County, many from Gardena, established the Southern California Gardeners' Federation to professionalize their trade. Politically, Ken Nakaoka's election as mayor in 1972 marked the first instance of a Japanese American leading a U.S. west of the . Cultural preservation endures through institutions like the Gardena Valley Japanese Cultural Institute (GVJCI), founded as a non-profit center offering programs in , , and Nikkei heritage education, and the Gardena Buddhist Church, established in 1926 as a Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha temple hosting events such as Obon festivals. These entities, alongside persistent Japanese-owned businesses, restaurants, and schools, sustain community ties and document oral histories of intergenerational contributions via projects like the South Bay Japanese American Citizens League collection.

Korean American Presence and Influences

Korean Americans began settling in Gardena in increasing numbers during the 1980s, drawn by economic opportunities in the South Bay area amid a surge in Korean immigration following the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965. The region's Korean expanded by 120% from 1980 to 1990, with roughly 60% concentrated in Gardena and adjacent Torrance by 1992, reshaping local demographics alongside the established Japanese American community. Recent data indicate that Koreans comprise approximately 5.5% of Gardena's , with concentrations up to 11.25% in zip code 90248, contributing to the city's overall Asian demographic of around 25%. Korean entrepreneurship has markedly influenced Gardena's commercial landscape, particularly in food services and retail, fostering economic vitality through small businesses that cater to both community needs and broader markets. By 1992, the South Bay supported at least 2,000 Korean-owned enterprises—more than double the number from 1982—spurring job growth and introducing Korean culinary staples like and soups to local consumers. Establishments such as Yellow Cow Korean BBQ and Moon BBQ exemplify this trend, offering traditional dishes that have integrated into Gardena's dining options and attracted regional patronage. Community institutions underscore Korean American cohesion and civic engagement in Gardena, with multiple congregations providing spiritual, social, and educational support. Notable examples include the Korean/South Bay Presbyterian Church, established to serve the growing population, and the Gardena Korean Baptist Church, both anchoring religious life. Korean Americans have also risen in public roles, as seen with Thomas Kang's appointment as Gardena's police chief in 2018; a long-time resident who began his career in the department at age 14, Kang represented the highest-ranking Korean American in South Bay law enforcement at the time. These elements reflect a pattern of assimilation through professional achievement and cultural preservation, without displacing prior ethnic influences.

Notable Landmarks and Events

The Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve spans 13.6 acres and represents one of the last remnants of the historic Dominguez , featuring restored native willow stands, diverse wildlife, and educational trails focused on . Originally part of an 820-acre land grant from in 1799 to Juan Jose Dominguez, the site preserves coastal amid urban development. Public access is limited to specific dates, such as the second Sunday and fourth Saturday of each month, to protect the . The United States Post Office on Gardena Boulevard, constructed in 1939 under the New Deal's Treasury Department Section of Fine Arts, exemplifies Art Deco architecture and served as a key federal project during the Great Depression era. Gardena's card clubs, including the Hustler Casino and Normandie Casino, emerged as prominent landmarks tied to the city's gambling heritage, with legal draw poker operations beginning in 1936 through a state law loophole identified by operator Ernie Primm. These venues generated substantial tax revenue that funded municipal services, establishing Gardena as the sole Los Angeles County locale permitting such activities from 1936 until Bell's authorization in 1980. Key historical events include the city's incorporation on September 11, 1930, which merged the rural communities of Gardena, Moneta, and Strawberry Park into a single municipality. Earlier settlement traces to the 1880s, initiated by Spencer R. Thorpe near modern 161st Street and Western Avenue, with the area's name derived from its fertile "garden" characteristics as noted by Thorpe's daughter. Post-World War II demographic shifts brought a significant influx of , reshaping community institutions and cultural landmarks like Gardena High School, where student classes amassed a notable collection of early 20th-century art from 1919 to 1956.

Notable People

Lisa Leslie, a professional basketball player who became the first player in WNBA history to dunk during a game and won three MVP awards, was born in Gardena on July 7, 1972. , a point guard renowned for his full-court buzzer-beater in the 1995 NCAA tournament that advanced UCLA to the , was born in Gardena on February 14, 1973. , an alto saxophonist central to the scene whose recordings emphasized emotional intensity and technical precision, was born in Gardena on September 1, 1925. Paul Bannai, a veteran who founded a realty and company before becoming the first Japanese American elected to the in 1973, served on the Gardena City Council starting in 1972.

International Ties

Sister Cities and Global Connections

Gardena established its first sister city relationship with Ichikawa in , , on November 8, 1962, when mayors L. Pete Jensen of Gardena and Takejiro Ukiya of Ichikawa signed a proclamation to foster mutual understanding and cultural exchange. This partnership reflects Gardena's historical Japanese American community, which has driven ongoing programs including student exchanges, cultural festivals, and delegations between the cities. The Gardena Sister City Association, formed to support these ties, coordinates volunteer hosting for visitors and promotes events highlighting Japanese heritage, such as summer programs and community gatherings. Gardena's second sister city is Huatabampo in , , with partnerships emphasizing bilateral cultural and educational initiatives, including hosting delegations and volunteer exchanges. These relationships, managed through the city's official channels, aim to build international goodwill without formal economic treaties, focusing instead on people-to-people connections amid Gardena's diverse demographics. No additional global partnerships, such as trade accords or broader diplomatic ties, are documented beyond these sister city arrangements.

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  77. https://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0628168-gardena-ca/
  78. https://gardenahs.lausd.org/
  79. https://gardenaes.lausd.org/
  80. https://135thstreetes.lausd.org/
  81. https://www.publicschoolreview.com/california/gardena
  82. https://ecsonline.org/ecms-gardena/
  83. https://www.niche.com/k12/gardena-senior-high-school-gardena-ca/
  84. https://www.schooldigger.com/go/CA/schools/2271003034/school.aspx
  85. https://www.publicschoolreview.com/gardena-senior-high-school-profile
  86. https://abc7.com/post/lausd-sees-boost-high-school-graduation-rate-announces-results-new-california-dashboard-data/15574101/
  87. https://explore.lausd.org/school/1866401/Gardena-SH
  88. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/california/districts/los-angeles-unified-school-district/gardena-senior-high-school-2540
  89. https://explore.lausd.org/school/1404101/Gardena-Elementary
  90. https://explore.lausd.org/school/1580801/156th-Street-Elementary
  91. https://www.the74million.org/article/historic-los-angeles-testing-gains-lift-even-the-lowest-performing-schools/
  92. https://datiak12.io/student-success/retention/article/15748503/lausd-see-major-gains-in-fight-against-chronic-absenteeism-but-problem-persists
  93. https://lacountylibrary.org/location/gardena-mayme-dear-library/
  94. https://lacountylibrary.org/adults/
  95. https://mwepc.org/about/campus-locations/
  96. https://adulted.lausd.org/
  97. https://www.cde.ca.gov/schooldirectory/details?cdscode=19647331933290
  98. https://cityofgardena.org/schools/
  99. https://cityofgardena.org/classes/
  100. https://cityofgardena.org/living-in-gardena/
  101. https://cityofgardena.org/public-works-about-our-department/
  102. https://ridegtrans.com/
  103. https://www.transit.dot.gov/sites/fta.dot.gov/files/transit_agency_profile_doc/2022/90042.pdf
  104. https://ridegtrans.com/transportation-options/
  105. https://www.metro.net/
  106. https://locator.lacounty.gov/lac/Location/3177323/city-of-gardena-transportation-department---special-transit
  107. https://www.closestairportto.com/city/united-states/gardena_ca/
  108. https://www.metro.net/riding/guide/airport-routes/
  109. https://www.iteris.com/news/iteris-selected-to-provide-bus-signal-priority-system-for-city-of-gardena
  110. https://download.newsroom.edison.com/create_memory_file/?f_id=5cc32d492cfac24d21aecf4c&content_verified=True
  111. https://cityofgardena.org/public-works/
  112. https://www.gswater.com/southwest
  113. https://cityofgardena.org/utility-user-tax/
  114. https://cityofgardena.org/recycling-and-trash/
  115. https://cityofgardena.org/sanitation/
  116. https://airlightmagazine.org/airlight/issue-4/the-neighborhoods-project-gardena/
  117. https://www.jci-gardena.org/
  118. https://www.gardenabuddhistchurch.org/
  119. https://www.jci-gardena.org/south-bay-jacl-oral-histories-collection.html
  120. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1992-02-02-me-1860-story.html
  121. https://zipatlas.com/us/ca/gardena/zip-code-comparison/percentage-korean-population.htm
  122. http://www.usa.com/rank/california-state--korean-population-percentage--city-rank.htm
  123. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g32422-c10661-Gardena_California.html
  124. https://pcusa.org/congregation/koreansouth-bay-church-gardena-ca
  125. https://www.yelp.com/biz/gardena-korean-baptist-church-gardena
  126. https://abc7.com/post/gardenas-top-cop-is-highest-ranking-korean-in-south-bay/3395335/
  127. https://www.gardenawillows.org/
  128. https://www.nbclosangeles.com/local/la-gardena-the-poker-capital-of-the-world/143481/
  129. https://www.blowingrockmuseum.org/see/gardena
  130. https://www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famers/lisa-leslie/
  131. https://www.wnba.com/archive/wnba/sparks/community/my_hero_lisa_leslie.html
  132. https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/e/edneyty01.html
  133. https://www.espn.com/nba/player/bio/_/id/218/tyus-edney
  134. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Art-Pepper
  135. https://concord.com/artist/art-pepper/
  136. https://www.nichibei.org/2019/10/paul-bannai-first-japanese-american-to-serve-in-california-state-legislature-dies-at-99/
  137. https://rafu.com/2019/10/obituary-paul-bannai-99-former-assemblyman-va-administrator/
  138. https://cityofgardena.org/sister-cities/
  139. https://gardenavalleynews.org/sister-city-summer-fun/
  140. https://www.facebook.com/gsca1962/
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