Fontana

Fontana was originally part of Rancho San Bernardino, a land grant of the former Mexican province of Alta California. Original settlers in Fontana were part of the early Californian economy, engaging in vineyard cultivation and citrus farming. Fontana's initial establishment was modest with agriculture as its economic backbone, primarily farming citrus orchards, grapes, and olives. The area was sparsely populated, retaining its rustic atmosphere for several decades.

In 1942, during World War II, the Kaiser Steel plant was constructed at Fontana, which marked a turning point in the growth of the city. It was the only steel mill west of the Mississippi River for several decades. The establishment of the steel mill brought significant industrial growth, transforming Fontana from a small, rural town into a large suburban community with a strong economic infrastructure. The plant played a crucial role in America's war efforts by supplying steel for shipbuilding and other wartime industries.

The Fontana Drag Strip was established in 1955 and became a key location for drag racing enthusiasts. It was an NHRA-sanctioned track and part of the famous racing circuit in Southern California. The drag strip hosted numerous major drag racing events, drawing top competitors and famous drivers. It played a pivotal role in the popularization of NHRA racing in the region and contributed to the local economy by attracting visitors and racing fans from all over the country.

Fontana was officially incorporated as a city on July 1, 1970. Before its incorporation, Fontana was a part of an unincorporated community in San Bernardino County. The incorporation allowed for more structured governance, improved public services, and better representation of the community's interests. This was a significant step in its transformation into a city that could manage its rapid development and growing population, which boomed after World War II due to its industrial potential.

The Kaiser Steel plant, which was once the economic heart of the city, ceased operations in March 1985. The closure marked the end of an era for Fontana, resulting in a significant economic impact and loss of jobs. The site was later redeveloped, but the closure was a pivotal moment that required the community to adapt and seek new economic avenues. It reflects the broader deindustrialization trends faced by many American cities during the latter half of the 20th century.

On July 20, 1996, the California Speedway, now known as the Auto Club Speedway, opened in Fontana. Built on the former site of the Kaiser Steel plant, the 2-mile, D-shaped oval track became one of NASCAR's premier racing venues. It hosts a variety of racing events, including NASCAR Cup Series races, and has become a significant part of Fontana's identity. The speedway revitalized the area, promoting tourism, entertainment, and economic redevelopment in the region.

In the early 2000s, Fontana was recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in California. This growth was driven by an influx of new housing developments, affordable living costs, and its strategic location along major transportation routes. The city's population rapidly increased as families moved in to take advantage of its suburban features and amenities. This period of growth transformed Fontana into a diverse and vibrant community, becoming a model of suburban expansion in the state.

The Lewis Library and Technology Center opened its doors in July 2006, marking a significant milestone for Fontana's educational and technological infrastructure. This state-of-the-art facility became the largest library in San Bernardino County, offering extensive resources, community programs, and advanced technological services. It symbolizes Fontana's commitment to education and community service, providing residents with access to information, computers, meeting rooms, and various cultural events.

In September 2010, Fontana was recognized as a "Healthy City" by the California State Department of Health Services. This acknowledgment came as a result of Fontana's city-wide initiatives to promote health and wellness among its residents. These initiatives included building parks, creating walking and biking trails, and organizing community health programs. Fontana's efforts were aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents and addressing public health challenges within the urban environment.

In response to the severe drought conditions affecting California, the city of Fontana implemented a series of water conservation measures in April 2015. These measures included restrictions on water usage, such as limiting landscape watering and promoting the use of drought-resistant plants. The city's actions were part of a broader state effort to manage water resources and prevent shortages. Fontana's policies reflected its proactive approach to environmental sustainability and resource management.