Declining port profits likely to affect Long Beach waterfront funding
Severely slumping port profits are expected to push the city's waterfront maintenance fund into a financial crisis within two years, possibly jeopardizing lifeguard patrols, beach cleanup and routine caretaking of the city's sprawling marinas and parks, officials said Thursday. The city's Tidelands Operating Fund, already sliding on razor-thin margins, is expected to lose at least $7.3 million in fiscal year 2011, with a similar hit forecast for FY 2012. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Friday, July 31, 2009
4 more acres of wetlands added to land-swap deal
The city's proposed Los Cerritos Wetlands land-swap deal adds another four acres of wetlands to the deal, according to a staff report released Thursday. The land-swap deal - scheduled for a City Council vote Tuesday - has sparked considerable heat since the properties have not been appraised, and critics contend wetlands owner Tom Dean is benefiting from the deal. Continue reading Press Telegram.
The city's proposed Los Cerritos Wetlands land-swap deal adds another four acres of wetlands to the deal, according to a staff report released Thursday. The land-swap deal - scheduled for a City Council vote Tuesday - has sparked considerable heat since the properties have not been appraised, and critics contend wetlands owner Tom Dean is benefiting from the deal. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Architecture For Humanity Hacks Google's Shelter Competition
Google's recently launched Design It Shelter Competition (which asks designers to submit schemes for 100 square foot shelters using their SketchUp software), has been co-opted by Architecture For Humanity. Founder Cameron Sinclair is raising the stakes, asking designers not just to design a compact 100 square foot building, but to make it a shelter with a humanitarian purpose. Continue reading Interior Design.
Google's recently launched Design It Shelter Competition (which asks designers to submit schemes for 100 square foot shelters using their SketchUp software), has been co-opted by Architecture For Humanity. Founder Cameron Sinclair is raising the stakes, asking designers not just to design a compact 100 square foot building, but to make it a shelter with a humanitarian purpose. Continue reading Interior Design.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
There is a bold vision for the future of Long Beach. In this vision, Long Beach is healthier, greener, more vibrant and economically stronger. This bright new picture painted by readers recreates our port city by rediscovering nature, realigning infrastructure, and repositioning the city and its existing assets to better serve its residents and stakeholders. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
Second And PCH Plan Moves To Next Phase
A consultant has begun work on the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the 2nd + PCH project at the corner of Second Street and Pacific Coast Highway, and the Planning Commission has offered a little guidance to the developers. The multi-use project would replace the SeaPort Marina Hotel with a boutique hotel, shops, restaurants, a space for live theater, a bicycle center and 325 to 400 residences. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
A consultant has begun work on the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the 2nd + PCH project at the corner of Second Street and Pacific Coast Highway, and the Planning Commission has offered a little guidance to the developers. The multi-use project would replace the SeaPort Marina Hotel with a boutique hotel, shops, restaurants, a space for live theater, a bicycle center and 325 to 400 residences. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
Big Cities, Major Producers and Victims of Greenhouse Gases, Feel Ignored
Big cities feel "invisible" in the climate debate in Congress, even though they face some of the biggest threats from human-sharpened natural hazards. Washington's omission is troubling to metropolitan areas like New York City and Chicago because they are the dominant source of carbon dioxide in their regions and will face the earliest impacts. They are also racing to understand climate change, while confronting its causes and trying to adapt to its downsides. Continue reading New York Times.
Big cities feel "invisible" in the climate debate in Congress, even though they face some of the biggest threats from human-sharpened natural hazards. Washington's omission is troubling to metropolitan areas like New York City and Chicago because they are the dominant source of carbon dioxide in their regions and will face the earliest impacts. They are also racing to understand climate change, while confronting its causes and trying to adapt to its downsides. Continue reading New York Times.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Long Beach Vice Mayor Val Lerch and officials were on hand during a demolition ceremony for a vacant building at 5550 Paramount Blvd., Long Beach, adjacent to Ed "Pops" Davenport Park. The building will be demolished to clear land for the park expansion, which is still in the design stage. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Rep. Richardson's Sacramento home is focus of House ethics probe
The Office of Congressional Ethics has interviewed an investor who bought the house in foreclosure last year, as well as neighbors. The city declared the structure a public nuisance. U.S. Rep. Laura Richardson's rundown Sacramento house, which became the scourge of the neighborhood and a sore point with an investor who thought he had bought it out of foreclosure, has drawn the interest of a House ethics panel. Continue reading Los Angeles Times.
The Office of Congressional Ethics has interviewed an investor who bought the house in foreclosure last year, as well as neighbors. The city declared the structure a public nuisance. U.S. Rep. Laura Richardson's rundown Sacramento house, which became the scourge of the neighborhood and a sore point with an investor who thought he had bought it out of foreclosure, has drawn the interest of a House ethics panel. Continue reading Los Angeles Times.
Wrestling With Moses
For those of us who care about cities and why they flourish or fade, the accepted wisdom boils down to this: Robert Moses bad, Jane Jacobs good. Moses lives in urban lore as the ruthless New York bureaucrat who forced highways through neighborhoods with no regard for real lives in the way. Jacobs is his antithesis, the Greenwich Village everywoman who enshrined the virtues of messy vitality in her still-potent "The Death and Life of Great American Cities." Continue reading San Francisco Chronicle.
For those of us who care about cities and why they flourish or fade, the accepted wisdom boils down to this: Robert Moses bad, Jane Jacobs good. Moses lives in urban lore as the ruthless New York bureaucrat who forced highways through neighborhoods with no regard for real lives in the way. Jacobs is his antithesis, the Greenwich Village everywoman who enshrined the virtues of messy vitality in her still-potent "The Death and Life of Great American Cities." Continue reading San Francisco Chronicle.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
City management has agendized an item for August 4 that proposes to swap a larger amount of city-owned land -- 13.4 acres instead of 12.1 previously discussed on Feb. 10 -- for a larger amount of open space/presumed wetlands -- 37.77 acres instead of 33.77 acres previously discussed -- on terms not yet public. Continue reading Long Beach Report.
Breakwater study 'a good start'
The City Council combed through an engineering study on possible reconfiguration of the breakwater, and many members continued to express support for the proposed project Monday. "This would transform the city," said rookie Councilman Robert Garcia. Continue reading Press Telegram.
The City Council combed through an engineering study on possible reconfiguration of the breakwater, and many members continued to express support for the proposed project Monday. "This would transform the city," said rookie Councilman Robert Garcia. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Changing Skyline: Francisville face-off on urban design
Francisville is by no means one of Philadelphia's hottest places to live - at least not yet. Plenty of people have never heard of the modest rowhouse neighborhood wedged between fashionable Fairmount and comatose Ridge Avenue. But Francisville is where the future of urban design in Philadelphia could be decided. Continue reading Philadelphia Inquirer.
Francisville is by no means one of Philadelphia's hottest places to live - at least not yet. Plenty of people have never heard of the modest rowhouse neighborhood wedged between fashionable Fairmount and comatose Ridge Avenue. But Francisville is where the future of urban design in Philadelphia could be decided. Continue reading Philadelphia Inquirer.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Breakwater alternatives
The positive outcome could be a partial return to the kind of waves the Long Beach shoreline hasn't seen since the 2.2-mile breakwater was finished in 1949 to protect the Navy's Pacific Fleet. Reconfiguring or removing the breakwater in Long Beach is, as one real estate agent noted, a noble goal. Except for a long list of consequences, many of them negative. Continue reading Press Telegram.
The positive outcome could be a partial return to the kind of waves the Long Beach shoreline hasn't seen since the 2.2-mile breakwater was finished in 1949 to protect the Navy's Pacific Fleet. Reconfiguring or removing the breakwater in Long Beach is, as one real estate agent noted, a noble goal. Except for a long list of consequences, many of them negative. Continue reading Press Telegram.
For half a century, a dark tunnel of crumbling concrete encased more than three miles of a placid stream bisecting this bustling city. The waterway had been a centerpiece of Seoul since a king of the Choson Dynasty selected the new capital 600 years ago, enticed by the graceful meandering of the stream and its 23 tributaries. Continue reading New York Times.
Smart community planning, more transportation options lead to reduced emissions
Reducing the impact of climate change, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and lessening dependence on foreign oil are high priorities for the Obama Administration. Today, I brought that message of aggressive action for a clean-energy environment to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Continue reading DOT blog.
Reducing the impact of climate change, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and lessening dependence on foreign oil are high priorities for the Obama Administration. Today, I brought that message of aggressive action for a clean-energy environment to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Continue reading DOT blog.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Temporary Spaces and Creative Infill
Visiting Jackson, Wyoming earlier this month, I stumbled upon a local gem: the Everest Momo Shack, a family-owned BYOB where a friend and I feasted on the Nepalese dumplings that give the place its name. We enjoyed it so much that the next afternoon we returned with SOs in tow, but were met with a surprise: a crew of bearded, suntanned and decidedly American cooks were serving up stuffed-to-the-gills breakfast burritos. I chatted with the kitchen staff to confirm the restaurant's split personality: By day, it's a burrito joint; four nights each week, it's the Momo Shack. Continue reading World Changing.
Visiting Jackson, Wyoming earlier this month, I stumbled upon a local gem: the Everest Momo Shack, a family-owned BYOB where a friend and I feasted on the Nepalese dumplings that give the place its name. We enjoyed it so much that the next afternoon we returned with SOs in tow, but were met with a surprise: a crew of bearded, suntanned and decidedly American cooks were serving up stuffed-to-the-gills breakfast burritos. I chatted with the kitchen staff to confirm the restaurant's split personality: By day, it's a burrito joint; four nights each week, it's the Momo Shack. Continue reading World Changing.
Which cities will, and won’t, recover the fastest
The three most important things in real estate: location, location, location.
It's true for recovery from a real estate bubble too. Overall, many economists expect the national economy to return to growth later in 2009, perhaps as soon as this summer. But that won't be the case everywhere. While some cities are poised for a quick rebound, others face a slog to recovery that could take years. Continue reading Forbes.
The three most important things in real estate: location, location, location.
It's true for recovery from a real estate bubble too. Overall, many economists expect the national economy to return to growth later in 2009, perhaps as soon as this summer. But that won't be the case everywhere. While some cities are poised for a quick rebound, others face a slog to recovery that could take years. Continue reading Forbes.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Lowering Breakwater Could Help Ecosystem
A lowering of parts of the Long Beach Breakwater could help improve water quality and be used to create a new rocky bottom marine habitat and kelp forest, restoring the ecosystem off the Long Beach coast. That is the key of the findings in a Reconnaissance study just completed by the Long Beach firm of Moffatt & Nichol, a study that will be presented to the City Council tonight (Monday) in a public session. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
A lowering of parts of the Long Beach Breakwater could help improve water quality and be used to create a new rocky bottom marine habitat and kelp forest, restoring the ecosystem off the Long Beach coast. That is the key of the findings in a Reconnaissance study just completed by the Long Beach firm of Moffatt & Nichol, a study that will be presented to the City Council tonight (Monday) in a public session. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
RDA may have to pull back on projects to pay state
The Long Beach Redevelopment Agency may have to delay or scrap projects from next year's budget in order to make its $30 million payment to the state, a top redevelopment official said Friday. While specific projects are not yet known since redevelopment officials are still calculating the $30 million impact - cemented Friday when lawmakers passed a state budget that allowed $1.7 billion to be taken from redevelopment agencies next year - Community Development Services Director Craig Beck said every project "not under contract is subject to deferral or cancellation." Continue reading Press Telegram.
The Long Beach Redevelopment Agency may have to delay or scrap projects from next year's budget in order to make its $30 million payment to the state, a top redevelopment official said Friday. While specific projects are not yet known since redevelopment officials are still calculating the $30 million impact - cemented Friday when lawmakers passed a state budget that allowed $1.7 billion to be taken from redevelopment agencies next year - Community Development Services Director Craig Beck said every project "not under contract is subject to deferral or cancellation." Continue reading Press Telegram.
County to consider bike license fee
Saying they're short on cash for new bike lanes and trails, Clark County's commissioners said Wednesday that they're willing to consider a charge for licensing bicycles outside city limits. "As a bicyclist, I would pay a licensing fee if I had better trail access," Commissioner Steve Stuart said in a work session on bicycle and pedestrian routes in the county. Continue reading Columbian.
Saying they're short on cash for new bike lanes and trails, Clark County's commissioners said Wednesday that they're willing to consider a charge for licensing bicycles outside city limits. "As a bicyclist, I would pay a licensing fee if I had better trail access," Commissioner Steve Stuart said in a work session on bicycle and pedestrian routes in the county. Continue reading Columbian.
Friday, July 24, 2009
The study conducted by a local engineering firm determines several methods by which the breakwater could be modified, potentially re-introducing waves and earning the City up to $52 million annually in tourism revenue.A summary of the major findings reveals that engineering firm Moffatt & Nichol (commissioned by the City of Long Beach to produce the study) has found multiple ways in which the breakwater may be reconfigured in order to improve water quality and possibly even re-introduce waves to Long Beach shores. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
Long Beach breakwater can't be entirely removed, report says
An engineering study released Thursday has concluded that complete removal of the breakwater is not a feasible option. The Moffatt & Nichol engineering study - scheduled for review in a special City Council study session Monday at 5 p.m. - concludes "there are too many negative impacts that cannot be effectively mitigated in a cost-effective manner." Continue reading Press Telegram.
An engineering study released Thursday has concluded that complete removal of the breakwater is not a feasible option. The Moffatt & Nichol engineering study - scheduled for review in a special City Council study session Monday at 5 p.m. - concludes "there are too many negative impacts that cannot be effectively mitigated in a cost-effective manner." Continue reading Press Telegram.
Study offers 5 options to reshape Long Beach's breakwater
Just off downtown Long Beach, where freighters queue up to unload much of the nation's imported goods, a long wall of rock rises from the waves, encrusted with mussels and crawling with crabs.This is the Long Beach breakwater, a 2.2-mile vestige of World War II designed to shield the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet from stormy seas and enemy torpedoes. Continue reading Los Angeles Times.
Just off downtown Long Beach, where freighters queue up to unload much of the nation's imported goods, a long wall of rock rises from the waves, encrusted with mussels and crawling with crabs.This is the Long Beach breakwater, a 2.2-mile vestige of World War II designed to shield the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet from stormy seas and enemy torpedoes. Continue reading Los Angeles Times.
Tracht's Loses Tracht
FoodGPS broke the news today that the District-approved Tracht’s inside the Renaissance Hotel will be losing Suzanne Tracht, she of Jar and also Top Chef Masters. District contributor Kevin Ferguson called over to the restaurant for a little clarity, only to be told that “nothing is changing.” Continue reading The District
FoodGPS broke the news today that the District-approved Tracht’s inside the Renaissance Hotel will be losing Suzanne Tracht, she of Jar and also Top Chef Masters. District contributor Kevin Ferguson called over to the restaurant for a little clarity, only to be told that “nothing is changing.” Continue reading The District
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Breakwater redesign could lead to new reef
A giant reef - possibly designed somewhat like an arrowhead - might be part of suggested offshore changes designed to protect the city's Peninsula area from sand erosion resulting from a redesign of the breakwater. It's one of several concepts that's been considered during an engineering study that will be released today so that it can be digested before a City Council study session at 5 p.m. Monday in City Council Chambers, 333 W. Ocean Blvd. Continue reading Press Telegram.
A giant reef - possibly designed somewhat like an arrowhead - might be part of suggested offshore changes designed to protect the city's Peninsula area from sand erosion resulting from a redesign of the breakwater. It's one of several concepts that's been considered during an engineering study that will be released today so that it can be digested before a City Council study session at 5 p.m. Monday in City Council Chambers, 333 W. Ocean Blvd. Continue reading Press Telegram.
City Receives $4.7 Million To Improve Water Quality In Area
Projects to improve the water quality of the Los Angeles River and Colorado Lagoon will proceed this year in the city of Long Beach with the use of stimulus money awarded from the State Water Resources Control Board. William Rukeyser, spokesman for the State Water Board, said approximately $1.5 million in grants was awarded to the city for trash nets, a trash separation device and a vortex separation system (VSS) unit for removing debris from the Los Angeles River. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
Projects to improve the water quality of the Los Angeles River and Colorado Lagoon will proceed this year in the city of Long Beach with the use of stimulus money awarded from the State Water Resources Control Board. William Rukeyser, spokesman for the State Water Board, said approximately $1.5 million in grants was awarded to the city for trash nets, a trash separation device and a vortex separation system (VSS) unit for removing debris from the Los Angeles River. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
We learn from Curbed that environmentalists are agog at the idea of converting Central Park in New York into a new airport. And why not? look at all the fuel that will be saved on trips to and from Kennedy and LaGuardia. And after Sully's Glider got knocked out of the sky by Canada Geese, it is perfectly obvious that if you have too much green space these things breed unsustainably. Continue reading Treehugger.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
"...The Hobnobbing Designers..."
The invite to Mundays, Monday evening at Gallagher’s Pub–longtime roost of Beer & Politics–suggested this could be one of “those creative meetings that immediately give way to marathon YouTube sessions.” But, this being Long Beach, it began with the unexpected arrival of the Big Red Bus and a tiny fender-bender outside on Broadway. Outstanding! Continue reading the District.
The invite to Mundays, Monday evening at Gallagher’s Pub–longtime roost of Beer & Politics–suggested this could be one of “those creative meetings that immediately give way to marathon YouTube sessions.” But, this being Long Beach, it began with the unexpected arrival of the Big Red Bus and a tiny fender-bender outside on Broadway. Outstanding! Continue reading the District.
In these hard times of job losses, the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) hopes it has come up with a real-world curriculum that might better prepare students for careers. If current plans are realized, in the next five years, the new ECATS (Early College Academic Technical School) High School will occupy the site of the existing DeMille Middle School on Parkcrest Street, just east of Studebaker Road, adjacent to the San Gabriel River channel. Continue reading Beachcomber.
A Jewel In The Community
In what city officials called a victory for small business in the Sixth District, the Phnom Pich shopping center debuted three new stores at its grand opening yesterday on the corner of Anaheim and Martin Luther King Drive, as the new owners welcomed family and friends in the community to celebrate the culmination of five years of their hard work. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
In what city officials called a victory for small business in the Sixth District, the Phnom Pich shopping center debuted three new stores at its grand opening yesterday on the corner of Anaheim and Martin Luther King Drive, as the new owners welcomed family and friends in the community to celebrate the culmination of five years of their hard work. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
A little over a year ago I asked readers to submit ideas for the Top Ten Worst Decisions in Long Beach History. Having identified those fateful, course-changing events for the city, my question then was “now what?” Since then I have touched upon the need for the city to be bold, and to shift our collective thinking, to realize the opportunities that Long Beach’s geography, location and built form provides. Now, I am charging the readers to help develop ten bold visions for Long Beach to become the great city many of us know it can be. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
Combining Trails and Transit
"The trouble with light rail and subway, some say, is that it only serves a small area around each station, and that vast areas can be left to dependence on cars. Planners consider mass transit service areas around light rail stations and subway stops to be about 1/4 mile — any farther and you’ll see significantly diminishing interest in making the trek. Continue reading City Parks Blog.
"The trouble with light rail and subway, some say, is that it only serves a small area around each station, and that vast areas can be left to dependence on cars. Planners consider mass transit service areas around light rail stations and subway stops to be about 1/4 mile — any farther and you’ll see significantly diminishing interest in making the trek. Continue reading City Parks Blog.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
RDA looking for someone to revive downtown hotel
Hoping to save all or part of one of the city's oldest commercial buildings and create a link to other areas downtown, redevelopment officials are in pursuit of those who can revive the nearly 104-year-old American Hotel. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Hoping to save all or part of one of the city's oldest commercial buildings and create a link to other areas downtown, redevelopment officials are in pursuit of those who can revive the nearly 104-year-old American Hotel. Continue reading Press Telegram.
LBUSD To Replace All Its Pre-1987 School Buses With Cleaner CNG Buses
The LB Unified School District will receive $1.27 million via the South Coast Air Quality Management District to replace all of its model-year 1987 and older school buses with cleaner-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) buses...which don't emit diesel soot. Continue reading Long Beach Report.
The LB Unified School District will receive $1.27 million via the South Coast Air Quality Management District to replace all of its model-year 1987 and older school buses with cleaner-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) buses...which don't emit diesel soot. Continue reading Long Beach Report.
Our nation's roads must be greener, says David Wenzel of HNTB. A green road is one that is designed, built and maintained in a manner that protects and enhances the environment, lessens the impact on its surroundings, and encourages mass transit. Continue reading Planetizen.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Breakwater Study Almost Ready For Release
The Long Beach City Manager's Office yesterday announced that a reconnaissance study of the Long Beach Breakwater performed by engineering firm Moffatt & Nichol will soon be available to the public, and that the study will be presented to the City Council for review on July 27. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
The Long Beach City Manager's Office yesterday announced that a reconnaissance study of the Long Beach Breakwater performed by engineering firm Moffatt & Nichol will soon be available to the public, and that the study will be presented to the City Council for review on July 27. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
Despite rough seas in recent months for a cruise-ship industry battered by the ailing economy and swine flu scares, long-term growth in Southern California appears strong enough that Los Angeles officials are considering building a $1-billion terminal to handle an expected explosion in the number of passengers in the coming decade. Continue reading Press Telegram.
White House to Push Forward on National Urban Policy Agenda
After remaining out of the public eye since its creation in February, the White House Office of Urban Affairs plans on Monday to launch a public conversation to create a national urban policy agenda, said Adolfo Carrión Jr., its director. The White House will host a daylong urban policy discussion including mayors, county executives, governors, urban policy experts, and heads of various agencies, Carrión said in a telephone interview yesterday. Continue reading Washington Post.
After remaining out of the public eye since its creation in February, the White House Office of Urban Affairs plans on Monday to launch a public conversation to create a national urban policy agenda, said Adolfo Carrión Jr., its director. The White House will host a daylong urban policy discussion including mayors, county executives, governors, urban policy experts, and heads of various agencies, Carrión said in a telephone interview yesterday. Continue reading Washington Post.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Lost Dreams: How many Edgewaters were there?
Every since the Jergins Building at the southeast corner of Pine Avenue and Ocean Boulevard was unceremoniously torn down there have been numerous incarnations of its replacement. It was to be condos, then a hotel, then condos again, then a maybe a hotel once more. Even its latest (now tabled) vision called the Edgewater, there were numerous designs floating around making unclear which one had been entitled.
Every since the Jergins Building at the southeast corner of Pine Avenue and Ocean Boulevard was unceremoniously torn down there have been numerous incarnations of its replacement. It was to be condos, then a hotel, then condos again, then a maybe a hotel once more. Even its latest (now tabled) vision called the Edgewater, there were numerous designs floating around making unclear which one had been entitled.
Anaheim Street Business Group Close To Becoming District
In just a few weeks, the East Anaheim Street Business Alliance (EASBA) likely will become a business improvement district. Rodney Wilson, president of the EASBA (and from Pacific Research & Strategies) said that organizers need to collect just more than a dozen additional signatures from the 539 businesses located in the district for the petition to have reached 50%. That is the key step, and will be followed by a City Council action in the coming weeks. Continue reading Downtown Gazette.
In just a few weeks, the East Anaheim Street Business Alliance (EASBA) likely will become a business improvement district. Rodney Wilson, president of the EASBA (and from Pacific Research & Strategies) said that organizers need to collect just more than a dozen additional signatures from the 539 businesses located in the district for the petition to have reached 50%. That is the key step, and will be followed by a City Council action in the coming weeks. Continue reading Downtown Gazette.
Remember when the Temple Lofts was just a Temple
Press-Telegram photographer Jeff Gritchen has an interesting subject for his Then and Now feature: downtown’s second-oldest Masonic Temple, which was finished in 1929–at such an expense that the Masons who built it reportedly went bankrupt afterward. Now, of course, it’s been converted into residential lofts. Continue reading the District.
Press-Telegram photographer Jeff Gritchen has an interesting subject for his Then and Now feature: downtown’s second-oldest Masonic Temple, which was finished in 1929–at such an expense that the Masons who built it reportedly went bankrupt afterward. Now, of course, it’s been converted into residential lofts. Continue reading the District.
When Charleston's new aquarium opened almost a decade ago, it promised to help rejuvenate eastern Calhoun Street from Marion Square to the waterfront. Today, however, that transformation appears on hold. The eastern Calhoun Street area still has several surface parking lots that the city hopes will be redeveloped. The eastern end of Calhoun has seen a few new large office buildings and a condo project, but it remains a hodge podge of large new construction, smaller historic buildings and surface parking lots. Continue reading the Post and Courier.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Is Hooters Leaving Pine Avenue?
This is not definitive news in any way but on Developers Diversified Realty (developer and owner of the Pike) website, the Pike’s latest leasing plan (dated 06-03-09) lists a new restaurant by the name of Hooters. Most people would be familiar with the restaurant chain’s location on Pine Avenue a quarter mile from the Pike. It is not certain that deal is done; West Marine was listed at the same space a couple years ago, but this does show intent to either move or create a second downtown location.
This is not definitive news in any way but on Developers Diversified Realty (developer and owner of the Pike) website, the Pike’s latest leasing plan (dated 06-03-09) lists a new restaurant by the name of Hooters. Most people would be familiar with the restaurant chain’s location on Pine Avenue a quarter mile from the Pike. It is not certain that deal is done; West Marine was listed at the same space a couple years ago, but this does show intent to either move or create a second downtown location.
Concrete Revolutionary
The book title Oscar Niemeyer Buildings may not resonate, but it should. Much of the 101-year-old Brazilian architect’s work is in media—sweeping modern expanses of concrete and glass—which should be instantly familiar to those of us who’ve ever attended a Long Beach City Council meeting, checked out books at Main Library or beheld the withered park atop it. Continue reading the District.
The book title Oscar Niemeyer Buildings may not resonate, but it should. Much of the 101-year-old Brazilian architect’s work is in media—sweeping modern expanses of concrete and glass—which should be instantly familiar to those of us who’ve ever attended a Long Beach City Council meeting, checked out books at Main Library or beheld the withered park atop it. Continue reading the District.
Council to hear results of breakwater study
The City Council will hold a special study session July 27 on the results of the Long Beach Breakwater reconnaissance study, officials announced today. This study is the culmination of three public meetings, dozens of stakeholder group interviews, and expertise from Moffatt & Nichol, the city's engineering consultants who conducted the study. Continue reading Press Telegram
The City Council will hold a special study session July 27 on the results of the Long Beach Breakwater reconnaissance study, officials announced today. This study is the culmination of three public meetings, dozens of stakeholder group interviews, and expertise from Moffatt & Nichol, the city's engineering consultants who conducted the study. Continue reading Press Telegram
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Retailers Are OptimisticThat The Worst Is Behind Them
Even though retail sales are still down significantly from last year, some relief may be in store for retailers, restaurants and auto dealerships, as recent data shows that sales are improving slightly from month to month. Continue reading Long Beach Business Journal.
Even though retail sales are still down significantly from last year, some relief may be in store for retailers, restaurants and auto dealerships, as recent data shows that sales are improving slightly from month to month. Continue reading Long Beach Business Journal.
Lagoon Work Wins Federal Money
A new grant through the State Water Board will go directly to cleaning up the water in Colorado Lagoon. Last week, the State Water Board gave its approval to nearly $83 million for projects throughout the state. One was $3.2 million in grant funding for the Colorado Lagoon project in Long Beach. Continue reading Grunion Gazette
A new grant through the State Water Board will go directly to cleaning up the water in Colorado Lagoon. Last week, the State Water Board gave its approval to nearly $83 million for projects throughout the state. One was $3.2 million in grant funding for the Colorado Lagoon project in Long Beach. Continue reading Grunion Gazette
In a city that prides itself for its "green" efforts, it's no surprise that a proposal by council members Robert Garcia and Patrick O'Donnell to have City Manager Pat West examine how Long Beach can reduce its permitting fees for residential solar panels was met with enthusiastic support. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Surf's Up
These days, you can’t swing a dead cat by its tail in Long Beach without hitting a breakwater study—odd, considering the overbuilt wall of rocks has just been sitting there for 60 years in the midst of much pelican poo, modulating protest and considerably sparse research. In a single rotation, our ill-fated feline hit four separate reports related to the 2.14-mile structure, credited with turning Long Beach into the waveless septic sink it is today. Continue reading the District.
These days, you can’t swing a dead cat by its tail in Long Beach without hitting a breakwater study—odd, considering the overbuilt wall of rocks has just been sitting there for 60 years in the midst of much pelican poo, modulating protest and considerably sparse research. In a single rotation, our ill-fated feline hit four separate reports related to the 2.14-mile structure, credited with turning Long Beach into the waveless septic sink it is today. Continue reading the District.
Council approves construction noticing rules without exemptions
New noticing rules to inform more property owners about public hearings for planned construction finally got an OK after ongoing City Council debates over the past month. The council continued its division Tuesday over whether to exempt gated communities from the new noticing requirements, but ultimately made a unanimous decision to approve the new regulations sans exemptions. Continue reading Press Telegram.
New noticing rules to inform more property owners about public hearings for planned construction finally got an OK after ongoing City Council debates over the past month. The council continued its division Tuesday over whether to exempt gated communities from the new noticing requirements, but ultimately made a unanimous decision to approve the new regulations sans exemptions. Continue reading Press Telegram.
It turns out that roundabouts may be part of the panacea for our greatest traffic woes. Across America, towns and cities of all shapes and sizes have been choosing modern roundabouts over antiquated signalization equipment and expensive grade separated interchanges. The choice of a roundabout, or a modern roundabout, rather, makes sense for several reasons: they have proven to improve the flow of traffic, reduce cost, improve safety, and enhance the quality of place. Continue reading Making Spaces.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Downtown Long Beach music venue Vault 350 to reopen
A San Diego real estate developer and an online radio enterprise are staging the comeback of a major downtown music venue. Medina Investments and Development and X1FM Network Radio on Monday announced their $4 million effort to renovate the 1,100-capacity Vault 350 in time to reopen in early 2010. Continue reading Press Telegram.
A San Diego real estate developer and an online radio enterprise are staging the comeback of a major downtown music venue. Medina Investments and Development and X1FM Network Radio on Monday announced their $4 million effort to renovate the 1,100-capacity Vault 350 in time to reopen in early 2010. Continue reading Press Telegram.
ArtExchange’s Design Details Begin To Emerge
Details of a proposed art workspace/studio/cooperative began emerging last Tuesday at a public meeting about the proposed ArtExchange project downtown. The ArtExchange is planned as a nonprofit studio cooperative that has been in the works for 15 years. Continue reading Downtown Gazette.
Details of a proposed art workspace/studio/cooperative began emerging last Tuesday at a public meeting about the proposed ArtExchange project downtown. The ArtExchange is planned as a nonprofit studio cooperative that has been in the works for 15 years. Continue reading Downtown Gazette.
High-rises on hold: What to do with empty lots?
The high-rise boom has gone quiet, and a new challenge faces San Francisco: deciding what to do with land cleared for towers that may not rise for another decade - if at all. At least a dozen large development sites in the city's South of Market district now sit empty or covered by asphalt because of the recession. Continue reading San Francisco Chronicle.
The high-rise boom has gone quiet, and a new challenge faces San Francisco: deciding what to do with land cleared for towers that may not rise for another decade - if at all. At least a dozen large development sites in the city's South of Market district now sit empty or covered by asphalt because of the recession. Continue reading San Francisco Chronicle.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Prioritizing sustainability, walkability, bold design and a building's historic value may become the new standard for downtown Long Beach, and a vision the city wants to put in writing. Starting this week, city officials are rolling out a preliminary plan that seeks to set the vision and development standards for downtown. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Termino Tree Trimmer Tagged
Anyone caught cutting trees that live on city property may face punishment. Trees growing in the parkway—the area between the street curb and the sidewalk—belong to the city and are off limits to unauthorized cutters. Parkway foliage is the responsibility of the public works department. Continue reading Beachcomber.
Anyone caught cutting trees that live on city property may face punishment. Trees growing in the parkway—the area between the street curb and the sidewalk—belong to the city and are off limits to unauthorized cutters. Parkway foliage is the responsibility of the public works department. Continue reading Beachcomber.
You're Not an Environmentalist If You're Also a NIMBY
Global warming is changing far more than just the climate. It's altering the way environmentalists view development. For years, city dwellers who consider themselves to be eco-conscious have used environmental laws and arcane zoning rules to block new home construction, especially apartments and condominiums. Continue reading East Bay Express.
Global warming is changing far more than just the climate. It's altering the way environmentalists view development. For years, city dwellers who consider themselves to be eco-conscious have used environmental laws and arcane zoning rules to block new home construction, especially apartments and condominiums. Continue reading East Bay Express.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Group says Long Beach heritage is at stake
Traditionally, when anyone in Long Beach has wanted to alter, remodel or even paint a historic building, the city's historic preservation officer made sure it was done right. But tradition may be changing, and that's one thing that doesn't sit too well with historical preservationists - they fear it will impact local heritage. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Traditionally, when anyone in Long Beach has wanted to alter, remodel or even paint a historic building, the city's historic preservation officer made sure it was done right. But tradition may be changing, and that's one thing that doesn't sit too well with historical preservationists - they fear it will impact local heritage. Continue reading Press Telegram.
Bike Among the Ruins
One night a little over a year ago, crossing Woodward Avenue, I crashed my bicycle. As I flew head over heels across Detroit’s main boulevard, I thought, well, in any other town, I’d be hitting a car right about now. But this being the Motor City, the street was deserted, completely motor-free. Continue reading New York Times.
One night a little over a year ago, crossing Woodward Avenue, I crashed my bicycle. As I flew head over heels across Detroit’s main boulevard, I thought, well, in any other town, I’d be hitting a car right about now. But this being the Motor City, the street was deserted, completely motor-free. Continue reading New York Times.
Making Grocers more appetizing for Developers
On May 16th, New York City unveiled a new initiative, Food Retail Expansion to Support Health (FRESH), which combines zoning changes and some financial incentives to make it less costly for developers to include supermarkets in their projects, and to allow the construction of supermarkets in light manufacturing districts without a special permit. Continue reading Planetizen.
On May 16th, New York City unveiled a new initiative, Food Retail Expansion to Support Health (FRESH), which combines zoning changes and some financial incentives to make it less costly for developers to include supermarkets in their projects, and to allow the construction of supermarkets in light manufacturing districts without a special permit. Continue reading Planetizen.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
It’s hard to say whether life really is better in one of the Ranchos, Long Beach’s area of 950 ranch houses designed by Cliff May, who invented the style. But there are days when it sure seems that way. “There are days when I walk in with my sunglasses on, and they stay on,” says proud Cliff May owner Eva Lewis, who’s only listed their house for sale because her husband is being transferred out of state. “I realize after a few minutes, and they just stay on.” Continue reading the District.
Gandy links bicycling to economics
A week or so ago, I wrote a story about the newly painted Shared Lane Markings, or sharrows, up and down Second Street in Belmont Shore.For the story, I spoke at length with Charlie Gandy, the city's new mobility coordinator, about trying to transform Long Beach into a bike-friendly city. One aspect of our conversation revolved around bicycling's impact on economic development. Continue reading Press Telegram.
A week or so ago, I wrote a story about the newly painted Shared Lane Markings, or sharrows, up and down Second Street in Belmont Shore.For the story, I spoke at length with Charlie Gandy, the city's new mobility coordinator, about trying to transform Long Beach into a bike-friendly city. One aspect of our conversation revolved around bicycling's impact on economic development. Continue reading Press Telegram.
How the Sotomayor nomination revived the debate over eminent domain abuse
Property rights were probably the last thing on President Barack Obama's mind when he selected Judge Sonia Sotomayor to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice David Souter. But that hasn't stopped Sotomayor's nomination from reigniting the long-simmering national debate over the use and abuse of eminent domain. Continue reading Reason.
Property rights were probably the last thing on President Barack Obama's mind when he selected Judge Sonia Sotomayor to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice David Souter. But that hasn't stopped Sotomayor's nomination from reigniting the long-simmering national debate over the use and abuse of eminent domain. Continue reading Reason.
Friday, July 3, 2009
With almost half a million inhabitants, Long Beach is larger than many well-known urban centers, including Atlanta, Cleveland, and Miami. Unlike many of these similarly-sized cities, however, Long Beach lives within the incredible gravitational pull of an even larger neighbor—in this case, Los Angeles. One consequence of this is that Long Beach is somewhat underserved by the collective “brain trust” associated with any metropolis. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
Downtown streetscape improvement dedication set
The next Music on the Main concert from the Richmond Main Street Initiative will be a double-duty affair, also serving as the official dedication of streetscape improvements to the city's historic downtown. A ribbon-cutting marking completion of work on the west end of the thoroughfare will be held as part of this month's free Music on the Main show from 5 to 7:30 p.m. July 22 at the parking lot at Macdonald Avenue and Marina Way South, adjacent to the Richmond BART Station. Continue reading Contra Costa Times.
The next Music on the Main concert from the Richmond Main Street Initiative will be a double-duty affair, also serving as the official dedication of streetscape improvements to the city's historic downtown. A ribbon-cutting marking completion of work on the west end of the thoroughfare will be held as part of this month's free Music on the Main show from 5 to 7:30 p.m. July 22 at the parking lot at Macdonald Avenue and Marina Way South, adjacent to the Richmond BART Station. Continue reading Contra Costa Times.
Consensus, but Progress?
If Bob Dylan were to look at urban development, he might say that the times are-a-changin’. There’s a new consensus emerging and it sounds a lot like what most of us want: Density, mixed usages, reduced traffic and public transit, for instance, are all synonymous with good planning nowadays. Continue reading Next American City.
If Bob Dylan were to look at urban development, he might say that the times are-a-changin’. There’s a new consensus emerging and it sounds a lot like what most of us want: Density, mixed usages, reduced traffic and public transit, for instance, are all synonymous with good planning nowadays. Continue reading Next American City.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Whenever the word "desalinization" comes to my mind, I picture a giant spaghetti strainer being dipped into the Pacific Ocean and sifting out all the salt as the clean, drinkable water falls into our waiting faucets below. I know enough about the process to know that it is infinitely more complex than that, but apparently the result is similar. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
Grant To Help Launch Stewardship Program For Wetlands
A grant recently awarded to the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewards will bolster the group’s effort to raise awareness of the wetlands’ importance and will mark the start of community involvement with restoration efforts on a larger scale. The Southern California Wetlands Recovery Project’s Community Wetlands Restoration Grants Program awarded $28,500 to the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewards last month. The money will be used to launch the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewardship Program. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
A grant recently awarded to the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewards will bolster the group’s effort to raise awareness of the wetlands’ importance and will mark the start of community involvement with restoration efforts on a larger scale. The Southern California Wetlands Recovery Project’s Community Wetlands Restoration Grants Program awarded $28,500 to the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewards last month. The money will be used to launch the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewardship Program. Continue reading Grunion Gazette.
Fairfax County Mulling Becoming Fairfax City
In what might be today’s biggest regional transportation news or might be an empty piece of political posturing, Fairfax County is considering becoming a city. According to the Post, the goal behind becoming a city would be to control local funding in order to better pay for basic road maintenance. On the surface, that’s O.K. news for sustainable transportation advocates. Continue reading The City Fix DC.
In what might be today’s biggest regional transportation news or might be an empty piece of political posturing, Fairfax County is considering becoming a city. According to the Post, the goal behind becoming a city would be to control local funding in order to better pay for basic road maintenance. On the surface, that’s O.K. news for sustainable transportation advocates. Continue reading The City Fix DC.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
New Plans for the Lyons Supply Company
In case you haven’t noticed, the ex-SST Records complex isn’t the only series of vintage buildings at Fourth Street and Linden Avenue with what could be a big future. Lyon Supply Company, the East Village Arts District art supply store at 420 E. Fourth St., could be next in the re-imaginarium. Continue reading the District.
In case you haven’t noticed, the ex-SST Records complex isn’t the only series of vintage buildings at Fourth Street and Linden Avenue with what could be a big future. Lyon Supply Company, the East Village Arts District art supply store at 420 E. Fourth St., could be next in the re-imaginarium. Continue reading the District.
Up A Creek: Long Beach's Battle To Clean Up The LA River
A floating plastic bag travels down the Los Angeles River and enters the Long Beach Harbor, where it joins several metric tons of trash, debris, pollutants. You name it. There could be waste from an upstream sewer spill, or chemicals that found their way into the aqueduct system. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
A floating plastic bag travels down the Los Angeles River and enters the Long Beach Harbor, where it joins several metric tons of trash, debris, pollutants. You name it. There could be waste from an upstream sewer spill, or chemicals that found their way into the aqueduct system. Continue reading Long Beach Post.
States spend most stimulus money on highways
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. states are spending the bulk of transportation money from the federal economic stimulus plan on highway repairs and building new roads, putting only about 6 percent of the money into areas such as public transit, according to a report released on Monday. Continue reading Rueters.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. states are spending the bulk of transportation money from the federal economic stimulus plan on highway repairs and building new roads, putting only about 6 percent of the money into areas such as public transit, according to a report released on Monday. Continue reading Rueters.
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