TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute any documents necessary to accept a total of $25,000 in grant funding, awarded by the Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association, to develop Phase I of a preservation plan for the Recreation Park Bandshell; and
Increase appropriations in the Capital Projects Fund (CP) in the Parks, Recreation and Marine Department (PR) by $25,000. (District 3)
DISCUSSION
The Recreation Park Bandshell (Bandshell) was designed by City of Long Beach engineer, G. W. Ferris, and constructed in the Spanish Baroque Revival Style in 1929. The Bandshell was frequently used for municipal, political and social events, including school graduations, presidential speeches, Long Beach Municipal Band performances, and the popular Iowa picnics. In 1991, the Bandshell was designated a City Historic Landmark (Attachment) - Long Beach Municipal Code, Section 16.52.740.
While the Bandshell was used extensively in the past, the elements, vandalism and general wear and tear have taken their toll and the Bandshell is in a state of disrepair and continued deterioration. The carved wooden arbors that once flanked the Bandshell eventually deteriorated and were removed for safety reasons. Weathering continues to deteriorate the ornate plasterwork and the Bandshell facade. Historic lighting was removed and replaced with contemporary fixtures. The 1920s era plumbing and electrical systems are outdated and worn and need replacement.
However, before any restoration process can begin, a detailed preservation plan should be developed to ensure the Bandshell is restored to its original design. The preservation plan will serve as a guideline document for the restoration process and for the long-term maintenance of the Bandshell.
In the fall of 2014, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) submitted an application to the Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association requesting $50,000 in grant funding to develop the preservation...
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