Rubber medians slash street-takeover incidents in Compton by nearly half

Compton has fitted rubber medians at three major intersections, replacing earlier Botts’ Dots that failed to deter illegal street takeovers. The barriers physically prevent cars from spinning through intersections, and officials say no tire marks have been seen at the Alondra Boulevard site since February. Data from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department show a 45% reduction in street-takeover incidents during the first half of 2026 compared with the previous year, following the installations in Compton and nearby unincorporated areas.

City spokesperson Marcus Harris described the measures as part of an "elimination campaign" and announced plans to add roughly 30 more locations. Long-time resident Willie Breaux reported that the streets have become much milder, easing pressure on police and fire services. City engineer Jack Gong estimates the medians will last at least ten years, providing a cost-effective solution.