PRESS RELEASE

Above: Community members enjoy recreational activities at Recreation Park's playground.

Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach Community Development Department, in partnership with the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM), is seeking community input for an update to the Open Space and Recreation Element (OSR) of the Long Beach General Plan. This update will guide the future of park and recreation spaces in Long Beach to ensure they are equitable, accessible and sustainable.

The Community Development Department is working closely with PRM, with its 2022-2032 Strategic Plan focusing on climate resilience, air pollution reduction and infrastructure protection while promoting community health and park equity. The OSR Element update will build upon recent planning efforts, address historic disinvestment in green spaces, particularly in low-income communities, and foster a healthier, more sustainable future for all residents.

The survey is open now through Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, and is available in English, Spanish, Khmer and Tagalog. Those without internet access can complete the survey using public computers at any open Long Beach Public Library location. The survey is one step in robust citywide outreach and engagement efforts to inform the OSR update. Results of the survey will inform future community engagement events and activities, including workshops and focus groups, that will take place in fall 2025.

The OSR Element, last updated in 2002, serves as a framework for the planning, development and preservation of parks and open spaces and aligns with the City’s broader sustainability goals, including the Land Use Element and Housing Element and the Long Beach Climate Action Plan.

For more information about the Open Space and Recreation Element, please visit longbeach.gov/osrupdate. To stay involved and receive updates about the progress of the OSR, fill out the following form at bit.ly/osrupdate.

Media inquiries may be directed to Elise Roberts, Acting Community Information Officer, Community Development Department, at 562.570.7174 or Elise.Roberts@longbeach.gov.