In 2022, the City of Long Beach Development Services, along with the project team, began the process to update the existing Downtown Plan to a specific plan that best fits the needs of the growing communities in Downtown Long Beach. Prioritizing affordable housing and investment, regulations are being modernized to meet state standards while streamlining compliance with environmental laws. Aligned with recent policy changes, the plan ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all. As the city evolves, the Downtown Plan emerges as a symbol of progress, uniting residents in a vision of a vibrant and thriving urban center.

As planning staff delves into the preliminary stages of this project, they are meticulously reviewing the existing plan, analyzing issues and opportunities, considering historical context and existing conditions, and evaluating the Downtown Plan's impact over the past decade. Strategies are being devised to effectively update the plan for the next decade or decades of growth, ensuring compliance with state law and enhancing implementation for the future.

Committed to inclusive planning, the City of Long Beach is embarking on a comprehensive and inclusive planning process, driven by robust community outreach and public engagement efforts. To ensure broad participation, both online and in-person outreach activities are being deployed, making public involvement accessible to all community members and stakeholders.

As part of the project team, The Robert Group (TRG), is leveraging its expertise in community engagement to facilitate meaningful dialogue and ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered in shaping the future of downtown Long Beach. holders, businesses and organizations that help shape the Downtown area. TRG kicked off the project by preparing and incorporating a Public Engagement Plan (PEP) that strategically targets the unique demographics and communities within Downtown, the City at-large and region, knowing many people frequent the Downtown area, but may not live in Downtown.

With our expertise in navigating complex planning initiatives and amplifying diverse voices, TRG is dedicated to ensuring that the Downtown Plan reflects the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders. Together, we strive towards a more equitable, resilient, and thriving urban landscape, guided by transparency, inclusivity, and community-driven solutions.