TITLE
Recommendation to request City Manager to work with the Public Works Department to prepare a report exploring the costs and feasibility of expanding the Alamitos Beach parking lot and adding additional parking on Shoreline Drive and surrounding areas.
DISCUSSION
Parking has become increasing difficult for residents, businesses, and visitors as Long Beach continues to evolve and grow. The COVID-19 pandemic has further contributed to the reduction in available parking as more residents are working remotely from home, and the effects of this have not yet gone away. The Alamitos Beach neighborhood has been especially impacted due to its unique characteristics and nearby attractions. The beach parking lot in particular is a popular resource for both residents who park overnight and tourists visiting Long Beach. This lot reaches capacity rapidly on a regular basis, forcing patrons to seek parking in other impacted areas. As we anticipate additional tourist attractions and draws in the nearby vicinity of this parking lot, including the completion of the café and concessions stand and the upcoming proposed installation of a large Wibit water play structure, additional parking is a necessity. This recommendation significantly expands public access and opportunities to enjoy our waterfront areas.
As the city and region continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and businesses, events, and community organizations begin to resume their normal operations, it is anticipated that more people will visit the City for events and recreational activities. Additionally, on the horizon, the City will be hosting events for the 2028 Olympics, which is expected to be a major tourist attraction and draw significant visitors to Long Beach. Understanding that the California Coastal Commission’s review processes can take a fair amount of time, beginning now to explore ways to expand parking options at both Alamitos Beach and on Shoreline Drive will benefit residents and visitors sooner, as events and attractions begin to resume.
Finally, in addition to simple parking area expansion, other approaches that would be beneficial to look at include:
• Additional bicycle parking, possibly secured bicycle parking
• Storage lockers for beachgoers who choose to walk or bus or bike, rather than drive cars. These could be similar to those adjacent to the Alamitos Bay concession stand
• Electric car and e-bike charging stations
• Designated scooter parking areas
• Other creative solutions that have been piloted in other cities
This matter has been reviewed by Budget Manager Grace H. Yoon on July 30, 2021.
FISCAL IMPACT
This recommendation requests the City Manager to work with the Public Works Department to prepare a report exploring the costs and feasibility of expanding the Alamitos Beach parking lot and adding additional parking on Shoreline Drive. The requested actions are anticipated to have a moderate impact on staff hours beyond the budgeted scope of duties and is expected to have moderate impact on existing City Council Priorities.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
[Enter Body Here]
Respectfully Submitted,
CINDY ALLEN
COUNCILWOMAN, SECOND DISTRICT