Project Description
Envisioned as a civic contribution that connects people to purpose and transforms space into place, the $215 million transformational Broadway Block Development will be located in the heart of Long Beach. The project combines 400 residential units with creative offices, artist galleries, restaurants, food and retail uses. It will also include a performing arts venue, artists studios and residential lofts for students and professors of Cal State University of Long Beach’s School of Fine Arts. To promote a walkable downtown, the heart of the Broadway Block is an engaging choreographic pedestrian experience open to the public. A system of Paseos link five diverse and vibrant inner-block courtyards to all three streets and even to the alley. Unlike most mixed use projects of this scale there is no “mall” or shopping street. Instead, there is a series of five interlocked courtyards or urban rooms. Each courtyard has its own distinct function and personality. The historic one-story Acres of Books Building at the heart of the block is repurposed and surrounded by a mix of low and high rise structures. Energy efficiency and sustainability are integral to the Broadway Block concept. The tower is located on the north and lower-scaled buildings are on the south to allow abundant winter sunlight and natural warmth to penetrate the Paseo and courtyards. The Broadway Block seeks to transcend normal large scale real estate development by leveraging local traditions and opportunities to create a unique, but local culture and spirit. -Rob Quigley