PRESS RELEASE

City of Long Beach 
Public Information Office
411 W. Ocean Blvd, 
Long Beach, CA 90802
www.longbeach.gov

5/22/2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEPress Release # 052224-3
Subject:
City of Long Beach Announces Strategic Improvement Plan for the New LGBTQ+ Cultural District
Contact:
Rick de la Torre
562.570.7174
Rick.DeLaTorre@longbeach.gov 
Community Information Officer
Community Development Department




The City of Long Beach has prepared a Strategic Improvement Plan (Plan) for the new LGBTQ+ Cultural District. Presented at the May 21, 2024, City Council meeting, which was approved with a 9 to 0 vote, the Plan will serve as a roadmap for future improvements along the Broadway corridor, benefitting both residents and businesses and honoring the cultural and historical significance of the LGBTQ+ community in Long Beach.  

“This new Cultural District is a testament to our ongoing efforts to create a safe and welcoming environment that honors the significant contributions and vibrant history of the city’s LGBTQ+ community,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “Long Beach is a place of inclusivity, and the LGBTQ+ community is in integral part of the city’s fabric.” 

The Plan is the culmination of nearly two years of extensive community outreach, including public workshops, convenings of an advisory committee comprised of local stakeholders, surveys and more to solicit input throughout the planning process.  

The next step in the planning process will identify specific implementation measures for various improvement efforts along the stretch of East Broadway Avenue between Alamitos and Temple avenues which may include decorative lighting, historic plaques, murals, neon wall art and street light banners, commemorative walks and sidewalk decorations. 

In June 2022, the Long Beach City Council approved with a 7 to 0 vote, a recommendation brought forth by then-Mayor and current Congressman Robert Garcia and cosponsored by Vice Mayor and Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen for City staff to work with community stakeholders to create a visioning process and feasibility plan for the LGBTQ+ Cultural District.  

“The new LGBTQ+ Cultural District will serve as an important symbol of inclusivity, pride and love in our community,” said Vice Mayor Cindy Allen who represents City Council District 2, which encompasses the District. “The Broadway corridor is rich with history, and we are proud to recognize this area as a longstanding and important place for the LGBTQ+ community to gather and organize.” 

A portion of the initial improvements will be funded by $2.5 million in Measure A funds previously approved as part of the Elevate ‘28 Infrastructure Investment Plan. Completion of this initial phase, as well as future phases, will require additional funding through grants or directed appropriations from state and federal partners.  

“The Strategic Improvement Plan for the new LGBTQ+ Cultural District reflects the vision of the community,” said Christopher Koontz, Community Development Department Director. “The new District will help connect residents and visitors to the cultural and historical significance of the LGBTQ+ community in the city, support the historic LGBTQ+ businesses and institutions in the area, and invest in public improvements along the Broadway corridor to help ensure the LGBTQ+ community continues to thrive.” 

For more information about the LGBTQ+ Cultural District and to review the new Plan, the community can visit longbeach.gov/LGBTQDistrict.  

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach. 

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Community Development Department, visit longbeach.gov/lbcd  and like on Facebook page and follow on X and Instagram.