Over the last year, volunteer ULI panelists worked with seven public agencies across six California and Nevada communities to tackle pressing challenges at the intersection of resilience and land use including the City of Needles which focused on attracting attainable, heat-adapted housing in the hottest city in the U.S.

The Friends of El Garces, in collaboration with local partners, hosted a successful Route 66 Centennial event featuring an art fair, car show, and community activities. The event drew strong attendance, highlighted local artists and students, and activated the downtown area. A total of 61 vehicles participated, including the City’s historic 1923 American LaFrance Fire Truck, and the City also held a $50,000 T-Mobile Hometown Grant check presentation.

Imagine a place where the morning sun paints the desert mountains gold and your bank account doesn’t have a nervous breakdown every time rent comes due. That place exists, and it’s called Needles, California – a small desert community where second chances and simple living aren’t just possible, they’re practically the town motto.