$25 million secured for new Alhambra Community Center

When the State legislature passed its 2022-23 budget at the end of June that included a historic surplus, Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) celebrated the good fortune that it included $25 million from the state budget she fought for. Those funds will be dedicated to building a new community center in the City of Alhambra. After a discussion at this year’s State of the City luncheon with Alhambra City Manager Jessica Binnquist, the wheels were put in motion to get the funds to restore the former Shorb Clinic, which was transferred from the County to the CIty in 2019 with a vision of a community center.

The City of Alhambra will use this funding to expand recreational and educational opportunities through the development of a state-of-the-art 25,425 square foot community center in the heart of the City, while preserving the historic nature of the 1930 brick building in the Monterey Colonial Revival architectural style.

“I’m proud that I could work with Alhambra leaders to bring their vision to life. As a local councilmember, one of my frustrations was not being able to complete needed improvements in my community because of a lack of funding. That's why as State Senator, I made being a strong budget advocate in the California Legislature for Senate District 22 a top priority. Thanks to the Alhambra City Council, City Manager Jessica Binnquist, and city staff for all their hard work,” said Senator Rubio.

She added, “Also, I take my job representing the City of Alhambra seriously, and I’m honored that residents supported me as their State Senator. I will continue to advocate for them for as long as I have the privilege of representing them.”

The 2022-2023 budget has been approved by the California Legislature and awaits the signature of Governor Newsom for final approval. Further details regarding disbursement will be determined following the Governor’s signature. The City will be planning an inclusive design process to include diverse stakeholder voices on the future of this new asset for the community.