**Q: Where is the City of Commerce located?** **A:** It is located in southeastern Los Angeles County, California, just a few miles east of Downtown Los Angeles.
**Q: What is the Citadel?** **A:** The Citadel Outlets is a major outdoor shopping center known for its striking Assyrian castle-like facade, located alongside the I-5 freeway.
**Q: Does Commerce Casino have slot machines?** **A:** No. Under California law, it operates as a cardroom, offering table games like Poker, Baccarat, and Blackjack variants, but no slot machines.
**Q: How big is the population of Commerce?** **A:** The residential population is relatively small, hovering around 12,000 to 13,000 people.
**Q: Why is there so much traffic in the city?** **A:** Commerce is a major hub for logistics, distribution, and manufacturing, drawing over 100,000 workers daily, plus heavy freight truck traffic.
**Q: Is public transportation available?** **A:** Yes, the city operates a free local bus system. It is also served by LA Metro buses and is close to regional rail lines.
**Q: What is the weather like in Commerce?** **A:** It enjoys a typical Southern California Mediterranean climate—warm, dry summers and mild, slightly wet winters.
**Q: Is Commerce a safe place to visit?** **A:** Yes, the commercial and retail areas are well-patrolled and generally safe. Visitors should take standard precautions regarding property and vehicles.
**Q: Who provides police services for the city?** **A:** The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD).
**Q: Can anyone go to Camp Commerce?** **A:** Camp Commerce in Lake Arrowhead is a special facility primarily reserved for the enjoyment of Commerce residents and their guests.
**Q: What school district covers Commerce?** **A:** The majority of the city is served by the Montebello Unified School District.
**Q: How do I get to Commerce from LAX?** **A:** The easiest way is driving via the I-105 East to the I-710 North, though travel times vary heavily based on LA traffic.
**Q: What is the Assyrian wall on the 5 freeway?** **A:** That is the front wall of the Citadel Outlets, originally built in the 1920s to house a tire factory.
**Q: Are there places to stay in Commerce?** **A:** Yes, there are several hotels, including The Commerce Casino & Hotel, a DoubleTree by Hilton, and a Crowne Plaza.
**Q: When was the city founded?** **A:** The City of Commerce was incorporated on January 28, 1960.
**Q: What is the main industry in Commerce?** **A:** Logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, and retail/entertainment (casino and outlets) form the backbone of the economy.
**Q: Does the city have its own mayor?** **A:** Yes, Commerce is a general law city governed by a five-member City Council, which selects the Mayor from among its members.
**Q: Are there parks in Commerce?** **A:** Yes, despite the industry, the city has four major parks serving its four residential neighborhoods.
**Q: Why are there no parking meters in Commerce?** **A:** The city generates enough revenue from its commercial and industrial sectors that it provides many free amenities, including parking and transit, to its residents and visitors.
**Q: How far is Commerce from Disneyland?** **A:** It is approximately 20 miles northwest of Disneyland, usually a 30-45 minute drive down the I-5 freeway depending on traffic.