The El Monte City Council has approved a major step toward honoring fallen law enforcement officers with the development of the El Monte Police Memorial. The project, formally titled CIP 711, is under construction in front of the El Monte Police Department headquarters at 11333 Valley Boulevard.
The council voted unanimously on May 14 to award a contract valued at just over $901,000 to DD Systems Inc., operating as ACE CD Inc. The agreement authorizes the company to build the memorial, which will feature a combination of monument structures and landscaped spaces designed to serve as a place of reflection and public remembrance.
Project Funding and Scope
Funding for the project comes from the city’s Art in Public Places program. According to the city’s meeting minutes, the allocation includes the base construction amount and contingency funding for unforeseen costs. Councilmembers expressed broad support for the initiative, describing it as an important investment in community heritage and public service recognition.
The approved plan specifies the memorial will be constructed directly in front of the police station entrance. While the detailed design plans have not been widely circulated, officials noted that the site will incorporate permanent materials and engraved elements highlighting the sacrifices of officers who have died in the line of duty.
Timeline and Construction Progress
Construction began in late May with a ceremonial groundbreaking attended by city leaders, police staff, and community supporters. As of June, work is progressing on site preparation and foundational installations.
A final completion date has not yet been announced. Based on similar civic memorials, the project is expected to take between three and six months to build, depending on weather conditions and material delivery schedules.
Council meeting discussions referenced the potential for a public dedication event following the conclusion of construction. City officials have not confirmed a specific date for the dedication ceremony but have indicated it may be timed to coincide with future observances honoring public safety personnel.
Community Significance
The memorial has been in planning discussions for several years, with advocates citing a need for a visible space where residents can gather to remember officers who lost their lives protecting the city. The Police Department and community groups have collaborated on early designs and fundraising concepts to advance the effort.
During the May 14 council meeting, several speakers offered comments in support of the project, highlighting the role of law enforcement and the importance of honoring service.
Councilmember Sheila Crippen-Thomas, who seconded the motion to approve the construction contract, described the project as “a long overdue tribute to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Looking Ahead
Once completed, the El Monte Police Memorial is expected to serve as a lasting symbol of the city’s respect for its officers and a place where families, colleagues, and the public can reflect.
Residents seeking updates on the project’s progress and information about the eventual dedication ceremony can visit the city’s official website at www.ci.el-monte.ca.us or follow the city’s social media channels for announcements.
For more on this and other civic improvement initiatives, readers can view council meeting archives and upcoming agendas at the city’s council page: El Monte City Council.
