TITLE
Recommendation to increase appropriations in the Capital Projects Fund (CP) in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PR) by $949,900; and authorize City Manager to execute all documents necessary for the acquisition of 1044 East 16th Street for the expansion of the California Recreation Center. (District 6)
DISCUSSION
The Central Long Beach Strategic Guide for Development (Strategic Guide) has identified specific projects within the Central Long Beach Redevelopment Project Area that will serve as a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization. One of the major priorities identified by the community is the development of open space in underserved neighborhoods within the project area. Though the Strategic Guide identifies areas for new park development, staff has implemented a strategy to purchase land to expand existing parks to address the immediate need. One such site is the property located at 1044 East 16th Street (Subject Property) for the expansion of the California Recreation Center (Attachment-Site Plan).
California Recreation Center (Cal Rec) is a 2.3-acre park, which houses a community center, gymnasium, basketball courts, playground and turf area. The park is heavily utilized by residents in the area, with multiple programs offered concurrently throughout the day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Cal Rec is located across the street from Polytechnic High School with a student population of 4,835 in grades 9 through 12.
Currently, only a limited number of youth can be served and must compete for use of the facilities with senior, adult and other programming at Cal Rec. Acquisition of 1044 East 16th Street would provide an additional 6,750 square feet to the existing park and allow for the development of a teen/youth center. The new teen/youth center at Cal Rec will allow for the expansion of youth programs and services including after-school programs with homework help, summer food program services, teen volunteer programs, job fairs,...
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