Crossings Pilot Project in South Colton

By: Vivian Johnson

Local Writer

Photo Courtesy of:

Photo Provided By: Eugene Valdez

Photo Description:

Residents of Colton City gather for a photo during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the beginning of a pilot program that will feature a new small business in South Colton every month. From Left to Right: Bill Matthews, April Lopez, Perla Madera, Maria Madera, Ruben Madera, Allison Madera, Eugene Valdez (Owner of Valdez Dev.), Isaac Suchil (Colton City Council), and Randy Lopez (South Colton Diversity Community).
The Crossings Pilot Project in South Colton is now active! Last week the first of 11 new businesses coming to South Colton opened. In an effort to support San Bernardino County Resolution No. 2020-103 which was enacted to promote inclusion and diversity in San Bernardino County, the South Colton Diversity Committee, Colton City Council Member Isaac Suchil has launched a pilot program that will feature a new small Minority Owned Business in South Colton every month. The program will consist of a multi-media marketing campaign highlighting a diverse aspect of Colton. This month's theme is "History in a Cup" hosted by new Chamber of Commerce Member Eugene Valdez owner of "Casa Valdez Coffee." The goal of 11 new businesses in South Colton within a year's time was selected to reflect San Bernardino County's 11th element which commits to county-wide inclusion and diversity to combat racism.   Colton is the first city in San Bernardino County to create a program to specifically reach underrepresented minority groups with a formula equaling business creativity as a result of diversity.