A California couple, weary of the city’s inaction, decided to address a common issue: crumbling roads. According to KABC, Alex and Daisy De La Rosa, a Compton courier team, were unhappy because of the city’s neglected streets. They had flat tires, suspension issues, and marital arguments because of the potholes that would constantly smash their cars.
Alex stood up and started filling in the potholes on their block. Ever the pragmatist, Daisy expressed concerns about the cost after she saw the improvement. But Alex was adamant and insisted on taking things one pothole at a time.
Spreading the Patchwork Gospel
The De La Rosas shared their efforts on social media, connecting with other citizens who were also frustrated by the state of the city’s crumbling infrastructure.
“Our entire city is riddled with massive potholes,” Daisy wrote on crowdfunding platform, GoFundMe. “These constant impacts are damaging our vehicles, causing flats, and ruining suspensions. We’ve pleaded with the city, but they seem overwhelmed. Many of us can’t afford these repairs!”
From Pockets to Public Support
The industrious couple initially supported their pothole campaign on their own. However, as their covert road construction grew, they started a GoFundMe page to help with the asphalt expenses. The community came through in spades, surpassing their $1,000 target by $730. Videos on TikTok even featured their young kids offering assistance.
@daisydelarosa4 #pothole #compton #delarosa #fyi #fyiespanol #amazon #GoFundMe
Irony Paves the Way for Frustration
The De La Rosas’ efforts were met with a bureaucratic slap in the face when they received a cease-and-desist letter from Compton’s Community Improvement Services Department, just as their efforts were gathering steam. The letter, dated March 14th, raised issues with respect to public safety and following protocols. Threats of fines, fees, and even liability for any damages resulting from the repairs were made by the city.
Disappointed but Defiant
Understandably, the couple was disappointed to be stopped, especially considering the city’s seeming lack of initiative. “We brought attention to this ongoing issue!” Daisy exclaimed. “We exposed those in power and showed that our voices matter! It’s a shame they were quick to shut us down, but not so quick to help!”
Echoes of a Terminator
Californians have taken matters into their own hands before, as evidenced by previous incidents. The need for better infrastructure was brought to light in 2023 when former governor Arnold Schwarzenegger famously filled a massive pothole that was causing problems for his Los Angeles neighborhood.
Today, after the whole neighborhood has been upset about this giant pothole that’s been screwing up cars and bicycles for weeks, I went out with my team and fixed it. I always say, let’s not complain, let’s do something about it. Here you go. pic.twitter.com/aslhkUShvT
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) April 11, 2023
