Cesar Chavez Boulevard is here to stay in Fresno after a challenge in court failed on Tuesday.
Fresno County Superior Court Judge Jonathan Skiles ruled in favor of the city on Tuesday to keep streets named in honor of the late civil rights leader.
The backstory: In 2023, the Fresno City Council voted to rename Kings Canyon Road, Ventura Street and California Avenue after Chavez, who co-founded United Farm Workers.
- A large contingent of the community opposed the move, however, with Fresno’s Black community accusing the city of trying to erase its history by getting rid of California Ave.
Driving the news: Community group 1 Community Compact quickly formed after the vote.
- The group included members of Fresno’s Black community, Armenian community and the business community along the three streets.
- 1 Community Compact filed a lawsuit against the city to stop the renaming.
The big picture: Skiles granted the city’s motion for Summary Judgement and denied 1 Community Compact’s request to stop the street renaming.
- Skiles ruled that the city has immense police powers and the inherent authority to name streets.
State of play: New street signs have been installed along the corridor, and most businesses and the post office have formally transitioned to the new street name, according to the city.
What he’s saying: “We are grateful for the Court’s ruling in favor of the City of Fresno and its recognition that the City through the City Council acted within its broad authority,” said City Attorney Andrew Janz. “This decision solidifies the City’s efforts to honor Cesar Chavez’s enduring legacy by ensuring the renaming of the street aligns with our community’s shared values of justice, equality, and community empowerment.”