Did you know Vernon CA is the second least populated city in California? It has only 222 residents. This small city is an industrial hub southeast of Downtown Los Angeles. It plays a big role in the region’s economy, making it interesting for those who study cities and industries.
Vernon’s history is tied to heavy industry and manufacturing. But, the Westside Specific Plan is changing things. This plan wants to add homes and businesses to an 840-acre area. It could change Vernon’s look while keeping its industrial heart.
In this guide, we’ll explore Vernon CA. We’ll look at its economy, people, and jobs. If you’re interested in business, jobs, or just learning about Vernon, this guide is for you. It will give you a fresh view of this industrial giant.
Key Takeaways
- Vernon CA has a population of only 222 residents
- The city is a major industrial hub in the Los Angeles area
- Vernon is undergoing changes with the Westside Specific Plan
- The city plays a significant role in the regional economy
- Vernon offers unique employment opportunities in various industries
- The city’s landscape may soon include mixed-use and residential areas
Introduction to Vernon CA
Vernon, California, is a unique industrial city in the San Gabriel Valley. It covers just 5.16 square miles, with 4.97 square miles of land and 0.18 square miles of water. Despite its small size, Vernon is crucial in the Vernon California industries scene.
Location and Basic Facts
Vernon is in southern California, part of the Greater Los Angeles area. It sits at 34°0′4″N 118°12′40″W, with an elevation of 203 feet. The city’s ZIP code is 90058, and it uses the 323 area code. As of 2020, Vernon had 222 residents, with 209 in 2023.
Brief History of Vernon
Vernon was incorporated on September 22, 1905. Its history includes controversy, with high salaries and fraud. After a fight, term limits were set, and salaries dropped. Now, Vernon works with a public-private partnership, with business reps on city commissions.
Vernon’s Unique Industrial Character
The Vernon California community is known for its industrial focus. Half of its businesses handle goods storage and distribution. The city offers big discounts on fees, taxes, and utilities, drawing industries. Vernon has 130 miles of railroad tracks and underground pipelines with hazardous materials.
Vernon plans to grow its residential area and make it more pedestrian-friendly. This could change its industrial look while keeping its economic role in the region.
The Economic Landscape of Vernon California
Vernon California is a key player in Los Angeles County’s economy. It has a wide range of businesses that help it grow. In 2008, Vernon was named the “Most Business Friendly City” by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation. This shows its dedication to supporting businesses.
Several industries shape Vernon’s economy. Food product companies in Vernon have nearly 10,700 workers. This is over 15% of the food sector’s workforce in Los Angeles County. The city also has more than 265 fashion businesses, focusing on apparel and textiles.
Vernon’s businesses cover many areas, including:
- Agricultural Production
- Chemical Manufacturing
- Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
- Food Manufacturing and Processing
- Furniture and Related Product Manufacturing
- Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing
- Warehousing and Storage
These industries are key to the regional economy. They export goods all over the world. Vernon’s industrial nature and location make it perfect for businesses looking to grow.
| Industry | Number of Companies | Employment Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Food Products | 100+ | 10,700 workers |
| Fashion Industry | 265+ | Significant portion of LA County workforce |
| Other Industries | 500+ | Major contributor to regional economy |
Vernon’s economy is always changing, drawing in new businesses and innovation. This industrial giant is a big part of the Greater Los Angeles Area’s success.
Vernon CA: A Hub for Industry and Manufacturing
Vernon California industries are the heart of this city. It’s small, just 5.2 square miles, but it’s packed with about 1,800 businesses. This makes Vernon a big player in the economy. It draws many workers, even though only 112 people live there.
Major Industries in Vernon
Vernon’s businesses span many areas. Meatpacking is a big deal here, but there’s also:
- Paper companies
- Clothing mills
- Glass manufacturers
- Plastic producers
Notable Companies Based in Vernon
Many big names are based in Vernon. Here are some top manufacturing companies:
| Company | Zippia Score | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| NBS | 4.5 | Manufacturing |
| TagTime USA | 4.4 | Manufacturing |
| Randall Foods | 4.2 | Food Processing |
| Flowserve Corporation | 4.7 | Pumps, Valves, Seals |
Industrial Infrastructure and Facilities
Vernon’s setup supports its industrial vibe. You’ll see secure parking lots and controlled gates. The Westside Specific Plan aims to keep Vernon competitive and diverse.
Vernon’s mix of old and new industries is key. It’s a big player in Southern California’s manufacturing scene. Size doesn’t matter when it comes to economic power.
Vernon California’s Workforce and Employment Opportunities
Vernon California’s economy is strong thanks to its diverse workforce. The city’s industrial vibe offers many job chances in different fields.
Vernon’s businesses play a big part in the local and regional economy. They support 105,500 jobs, showing Vernon’s importance as a job center in Greater Los Angeles.
Workers in Vernon earn an average of $41,577 a year. This shows the city’s competitive pay. The total wages and salaries from Vernon’s economy are $4.48 billion each year, showing the big economic impact of Vernon’s businesses.
| Industry | Employment Percentage |
|---|---|
| Food | 15.3% |
| Apparel | 10.7% |
| Furniture | 5.5% |
| Fabricated Metal | 3.4% |
Vernon’s main focus is on manufacturing, with about 29,600 private-sector jobs. The city has 1,590 businesses, employing 44,896 people. Including indirect jobs, Vernon supports 103,900 jobs.
The Vernon California economy has a big impact on the region. Local spending supports other businesses, boosting the area’s economy.
The Evolving Face of Vernon: The Westside Specific Plan
Vernon California is about to see big changes with the Westside Specific Plan. This plan aims to change the Vernon California real estate market. It also wants to bring new life to the Vernon California community.
Goals of the Westside Specific Plan
The plan’s main goal is to make Vernon more diverse. It wants to change the city’s mostly industrial look. The plan has four main areas to focus on:
- Research and development facilities
- Office spaces
- Mixed-use commercial developments
- Adaptive reuse of landmark buildings
Potential Changes to Vernon’s Landscape
The plan wants to make Santa Fe Avenue better. It aims to make the street friendly for walkers. This could make the street lively and attract more businesses and people.
Impact on Housing and Mixed-Use Development
The plan also talks about adding homes and mixed-use buildings. This could change Vernon’s real estate a lot. By 2045, Vernon could see 20,000 new residents, showing a lot of growth.
The plan wants to mix homes and work spaces. This could make Vernon feel more like a community. It will blend living and working in a way that’s new for this industrial city.
Transportation and Accessibility in Vernon CA
Vernon CA is changing its transportation to meet its growing needs. With 20,000 new residents expected by 2045, the city is focusing on better ways to get around. This includes making it easier for people to move around.
The city is close to Metro A Line stops at Slauson and Vernon Avenues. This makes it easy for people to use public transport. A new stop on the West Santa Ana Branch is also planned. This will make it even easier for everyone to get where they need to go.
The Westside Specific Plan wants to improve Santa Fe Avenue. They plan to add:
- New on-street parking
- Dedicated bike lanes
- Safer crosswalks for pedestrians
A new truck route system will help keep heavy vehicles off Santa Fe Avenue. Alameda Street will be the main truck route for Vernon’s west side. This will make traffic smoother and safer for everyone.
| Transportation Improvement | Expected Benefit |
|---|---|
| New Metro stop | Increased public transit accessibility |
| Bike lanes | Promotion of eco-friendly commuting |
| Truck route system | Reduced congestion on main streets |
Vernon is listening to what the community thinks about these changes. They started Phase 2 of their engagement process. A survey ran until November 14, and an open house was on November 7 at the library. This gave residents a chance to share their thoughts on Vernon CA’s future transportation.
Vernon California’s Unique Demographics
Vernon California is a small but diverse community. It has a population of 222 residents, making it the second least populated city in California. The city covers 5.16 square miles, with a population density of 44.66 people per square mile.
Population Statistics
The Vernon California community has seen a lot of growth. From 112 residents in 2010, the population nearly doubled by 2020. Here’s a breakdown of the city’s demographic makeup:
- Hispanic residents: 90%
- White residents: 6%
- Black residents: 3%
- Other ethnicities: 1%
The median age in Vernon is 28.1 years. The city’s income distribution is also unique. 64% of residents earn between $50,000 and $100,000.
Residential Areas
Vernon’s residential areas are as unique as its demographics. With only 88 households, the city’s housing situation is closely tied to its industrial nature. Many residents are city employees or have connections to city workers, often renting homes at nominal fees.
The Vernon California community is set for change with the Westside Specific Plan. This plan aims to introduce new residential areas. It could alter the city’s demographic landscape through mixed-use and multifamily developments.
Economic Development Initiatives in Vernon
Vernon California’s economy is growing fast, thanks to new development plans. In 2009, the city took control of its economic growth. This was a big change from relying on the Regional District of North Okanagan.
In 2010, Vernon adopted an Economic Development Strategy. This plan aimed to grow and diversify local businesses. It focused on keeping and growing local companies, knowing they create most new jobs.
Vernon is not just looking to grow locally. It also wants to attract outside investments. This mix aims to create more jobs and bring in new people, boosting the Vernon economy.
Working together is key for Vernon’s economic growth. The city teams up with nearby towns and the University of British Columbia – Okanagan. This partnership helps develop a skilled workforce for Vernon’s businesses.
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Revitalization Tax Exemption Program | Encourages redevelopment | Attracts new businesses |
| Brownfield Redevelopment | Explores opportunities for site reuse | Increases available industrial space |
| Vernon Chamber of Commerce | Supports pro-business policies | Advocates for local businesses |
Vernon is dedicated to a strong business environment. It’s focusing on local growth, attracting new investments, and teamwork. This is setting Vernon up for a strong and varied economic future.
Vernon’s Role in the Greater Los Angeles Area Economy
Vernon California’s economy is key to the Greater Los Angeles area. This small city, just five square miles, has 1,800 businesses. It has 50,000 daytime workers, making it a big player in the economy.
Regional Economic Impact
Vernon’s businesses are big for the regional economy. The city is home to True Religion, Bon Apetit Bakery, and Simply Fresh Fruit. These businesses, along with many others, create jobs and stability.
Partnerships with Neighboring Cities
Vernon’s influence goes beyond its city limits. It works well with areas like the Arts District and Huntington Park. This teamwork makes the Greater Los Angeles area’s economy strong.
Recently, Vernon has started new projects to change its image and be more open. The Vernon City Park apartment complex is one of them. It offers affordable housing to 150 families, with prices from $687 to $1,272 a month.
As Vernon grows, it remains a crucial part of the Greater Los Angeles economy. Its mix of industrial power and development plans make it a major player in the region’s future.
Future Prospects for Vernon California
Vernon California’s economy is set for a big change. The Westside Specific Plan aims to transform 840 acres along Alameda Street and Santa Fe Avenue. It plans to mix industrial areas with housing and commercial spaces.
The plan breaks the area into four parts, each with its own goals. Cluster 1 will have research and development sites. Cluster 2 will turn old buildings into homes. Cluster 3 will add residential projects near Vernon City Hall. Cluster 4 will create green spaces and paths for walkers.
The real estate market in Vernon is expected to grow a lot. By 2040, there could be 874 new homes, making the city’s population grow by over four times. There will also be 360,429 square feet of office space and 253,021 square feet of retail, showing a shift towards a more varied city.
Vernon is facing a big challenge. It needs to keep its industrial heart while welcoming new urban areas. With smart planning, Vernon can become a lively place to live while staying a key economic center in Southern California.
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Source Links
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