Long Beach residents can learn more about two major improvement projects happening at Drake and Cesar Chavez parks and the surrounding area during workshops this week and next.
The departments of Public Works and Parks, Recreation and Marine will host two community workshops to share information and gather feedback on the design and planning of the projects. The workshops will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at the Jenny Oropeza Community Center, 401 Golden Ave., and virtually from noon to 1:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, on Zoom.
During the workshops, an update will be shared on the effort to connect Drake and Cesar Chavez parks with the development of 4.5 acres of new parkland, transforming the adjacent, former industrial parcel into an open space and recreational amenity, according to a press release.
The Public Works Department’s project team will share community input already gathered during a 2021 survey and earlier outreach efforts that informed the Vision Plan – which was adopted by the City Council in 2019 – and outline next steps to finalize the design and secure additional funding for construction.
City staffers will also introduce new planning efforts for future revitalization in the area under the Drake-Chavez Master Planning Project. Community input is being sought to help shape priorities for this effort, which could potentially bring even more green space and recreational access to the community. By connecting existing parcels, the initiative will deliver lasting environmental and social benefits for neighborhoods in the area, officials said.
With current funding limited to planning, engagement and concept design, the city will continue working toward securing the additional resources required to move the project into detailed design and construction, according to the press release.
Workshop participants will learn about both projects, according to the press release, and have the opportunity to share feedback that will help shape the design and vision of each project. While these projects are independent from one another and on separate phases of project planning and development, both projects will cohesively transform the surrounding areas.
These projects, city officials have said, reflect Long Beach’s commitment to creating more accessible, connected and equitable spaces throughout its communities.
Pre-registration is encouraged but not required for both workshops. Residents can sign up for the virtual meeting at bit.ly/LBDrakeChavezMeeting.