Fresno City Council unanimously votes to change Cesar Chavez Boulevard back to original names

The Fresno City Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to begin reversing the renaming of a major roadway that had been designated Cesar Chavez Boulevard, taking what officials described as the first step to restore the corridor’s original street names.

The move comes days after allegations of sexual abuse were raised against the late labor leader, prompting renewed debate and emotional testimony at City Hall.

Councilmembers said the allegations had a deep impact on the community and on their deliberations.

“The news has been deeply painful and personally devastating to us. It has shaken many of us,” Councilmember Miguel Arias said.

Speaking from the dais, councilmembers called for accountability and addressed Dolores Huerta and other alleged victims directly.

Several said swift action was necessary in light of the circumstances.

“I feel it’s appropriate that we should take swift action to take the Kings Canyon Ventura in California Avenue signage. That way, she and any other victims can continue healing in peace,” Councilmember Karbassi said.

“I do not believe this is something an individual deserves to be plastered all along one of our main corridors of our city,” said Councilmember Perea.

The decision marks a sharp turn from an effort that began years ago to rename portions of Kings Canyon Road, Ventura Street and California Avenue as Cesar Chavez Boulevard, a change intended to honor the contributions of farmworkers.

During public comment, some speakers highlighted the length of that effort and urged caution in moving so quickly to undo it.

“It really bothers me that within 48 hours you guys are making a decision that it took us several years to come to,” one community member said.

Another added, “To me, it’s very important that the streets continue to represent the farmworkers.”

Opposition to the original renaming also resurfaced during the meeting.

Some residents and business owners along the nearly 10-mile-long corridor said they had fought the change for years, arguing the original street names held historic value and that the rebranding came with a costly price tag.

With the council’s vote, officials moved to begin restoring the former names: California Avenue, Ventura Street and Kings Canyon Road.

The action approved Tuesday does not immediately change the signage but authorizes the process to move forward.

Public comment reflected a mix of empathy and relief.

“I’m not celebrating your pain,” one speaker said.

Another told the council, “I am, of course, pleased that the name change will go back to Kings Canyon Ventura and California.”

City officials said they saved about 80% of the former street signs after spending almost $150,000 to change them in 2024.

Our cameras captured them covered in dust in storage.

Leaders argue that this revision is the fastest and most cost-effective next step.

Fresno City Attorney Andrew Janz said the process to change the street signs has begun, but won’t happen overnight.

The public will get more opportunities to provide input at two future hearings on the matter.

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