Here are the latest local news highlights for Oct. 23 – Oct. 29, 2023.
Community Invited to Share Input on Scherer Park Enhancement Plans
The city of Long Beach and local partners are working closely with residents and park users to reimagine Scherer Park in North Long Beach. The Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine hosted its final community workshop on Oct.19, unveiling two concept plans for feedback, but community members can still provide input through an online form until Nov. 19. The plans were developed based on community surveys and earlier workshops. Feedback will shape the final vision plan, potentially incorporating elements from both concepts. This plan will prioritize community-driven improvements and guide future investments. To submit input online, click here. Learn more here.
Long Beach Initiative Aims to Expand Access to Fresh Produce with Mobile Healthy Food Market
Long Beach is actively seeking a partner to establish and operate a Mobile Healthy Food Market (MHFM) in the area. The goal of this initiative is to enhance access to affordable, fresh produce in neighborhoods identified as having limited food options. Additionally, the MHFM aims to connect residents with vital services and resources that address health determinants. The city will procure and customize a vehicle for this purpose. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased demand for food assistance among low-income households, making accessible produce even more crucial. A mobile market offering affordable fruits and vegetables in underserved areas can significantly benefit seniors, families, and individuals facing financial constraints. The City has initiated a Request for Proposals (RFP) and encourages qualified organizations to submit proposals through the Long Beach Buys vendor portal by Dec. 5. Detailed eligibility requirements and submission instructions can be found on the Long Beach Buys website, along with an instructional video for guidance. Learn more here.
Long Beach Health Department Hosts Filipino Community Needs Assessment Presentation
The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services is set to present the results of the Filipino Community Needs Health Assessment on Monday, Oct. 30. Led by the Health Department’s Racial and Health Equity team, the assessment aims to identify strengths and service gaps for the Filipino community’s health and wellbeing in Long Beach. With over 20,000 residents of Filipino descent in the city, this initiative is crucial in reducing health disparities. Following the presentation, the Health Department will work closely with the Filipino Community Advisory Committee to establish short-, medium-, and long-term goals for improving health outcomes. Community involvement is encouraged, and interpretation services, including Tagalog, will be provided. RSVPs are recommended for participation. Learn more here.
Bankrupt Contractor Announces Closure of Long Beach Facility, Resulting in 257 Layoffs
Matheson Flight Extenders, a mail processing and logistics contractor for the U.S. Postal Service that filed for bankruptcy last year, has notified the state Employment Development Department of its plans to close its Long Beach facility. This move will lead to 257 layoffs, primarily affecting material handlers, forklift operators, and supervisors. The closure is expected to be permanent, with a tentative date set for Nov. 13. Matheson also indicated impending closures and layoffs at its San Leandro and Sacramento facilities, with those actions scheduled for December. The company’s bankruptcy filing in May 2022 cited assets and liabilities between $10 million and $50 million. They planned to cut over 600 jobs at other facilities across the U.S. by mid-October. Learn more here.
Long Beach Secures Funding for Orange Avenue Bike Corridor
The Long Beach City Council has approved $566,000 to kickstart the initial phase of the Orange Avenue Bike Corridor project, connecting North Long Beach with downtown. This funding, supplemented by a grant from the California Department of Transportation, will be allocated toward planning and enhancing safety measures for cyclists, pedestrians, and mobility device users. The 8.3-mile corridor is a key component of the city’s Bicycle Master Plan and is estimated to cost $13.3 million in total. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions in alignment with the Vision Zero program and further establish Long Beach as a bike-friendly city. The improvements will encompass safety measures at intersections, designated bike lanes, pavement resurfacing, enhanced lighting, and accessible sidewalks. The Orange Avenue Bike Corridor is part of Long Beach’s efforts to promote public transportation and reduce emissions in heavily trafficked areas. Learn more here.
