Mayor Butts Leads Efforts to Support Small Businesses Amid Entertainment District Growth

As Inglewood experiences unprecedented transformation driven by SoFi Stadium and the Intuit Dome, Mayor James Butts and city officials are working to ensure that the “economic renaissance” benefits all businesses, including the long-established small businesses that have served the community for decades.

With at least 3,000 new businesses opening over the past four years according to Mayor Butts, the city is actively addressing growing pains to help existing businesses adapt to and capitalize on the influx of visitors and economic activity.

Some long-time business owners report challenges adjusting to event day traffic patterns and increased competition, prompting the city to enhance its small business support programs and traffic management strategies.

“On game days, traffic patterns change significantly,” said Marcus Johnson, who has owned a barbershop on Manchester Avenue for 18 years. “We’re learning to adapt our hours and marketing to work with the new reality. The city has been responsive when we bring up concerns.”

Mayor Butts acknowledges that rapid development creates adjustment periods for existing businesses. The administration has launched several initiatives to help local businesses benefit from the entertainment district’s success, including small business workshops, marketing assistance, and improved communication about event schedules.

“We’re committed to supporting the businesses that have been the backbone of Inglewood for generations,” Mayor Butts said. “Our goal is ensuring everyone participates in and benefits from our city’s growth.”

The city is implementing traffic management improvements to reduce congestion on event days, working with venue operators to coordinate schedules, and providing advance notice to help businesses plan around major events.

Angela Williams, who owns a family restaurant that has served the community for 25 years, notes the mixed impact: “There are challenges with event day traffic, but we’re also seeing new customers who discover us after visiting the stadiums. The city is helping us market to these new visitors.”

Business owners are adapting their strategies to the new environment. Some are extending hours to capture post-event crowds, while others are partnering with hotels and venues to attract stadium visitors. The city’s economic development office provides resources to help businesses make these transitions.

Rosa Martinez, who operates a nail salon near the Forum, has adjusted her approach: “We’ve shifted some weekend appointments to weekdays and added evening hours to serve the hotel guests and visitors. It’s different from before, but we’re finding new opportunities.”

City officials recognize that rising commercial rents driven by development have created financial pressure for some long-time businesses. In response, the city has expanded its small business assistance programs, offering financial counseling, lease negotiation support, and access to low-interest loans for qualifying businesses.

“The city is committed to helping our established businesses navigate this period of transition,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Sandra Martinez. “We have resources available and we’re actively reaching out to business owners who may need support.”

The increased tax revenue and economic activity generated by the entertainment district has enabled the city to invest more in infrastructure, public safety, and community services—benefits that support all businesses and residents.

Jennifer Thompson, president of a local business association, acknowledges progress: “The city has improved communication and is working with us on traffic planning and parking solutions. We appreciate Mayor Butts’ commitment to making sure existing businesses aren’t left behind.”

Black-owned businesses, which form a significant part of Inglewood’s commercial landscape, are receiving targeted support through city programs designed to provide capital access, marketing assistance, and business development resources.

“These businesses are cultural anchors in our community,” said Reverend James Mitchell, a longtime community leader. “Mayor Butts understands their importance and the city is working to preserve and strengthen them as Inglewood grows.”

As Inglewood continues its evolution into a premier sports and entertainment destination, Mayor Butts and city officials remain focused on inclusive economic development that creates opportunities for both new and established businesses.

“Our vision is an Inglewood where growth lifts everyone,” Mayor Butts emphasized. “We’re building a city that honors its history while embracing its future—where the businesses that have served us for decades thrive alongside new enterprises.”

Business owners interested in city support programs can contact the Inglewood Economic Development Office or attend monthly small business forums where city officials provide updates and resources.