The City of Long Beach is set to unveil the newly renovated Bixby Park Bandshell and park improvements with a community celebration on July 25, according to a recent press release on the city's official website. The celebration is scheduled for 1 pm at Bixby Park, located at 130 Cherry Ave. Vice Mayor Roberto Uranga, Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen, and other city leaders are expected to deliver remarks before the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Following the ceremonial activities, attendees can enjoy a concert featuring the Frank Sinatra tribute band, Bread and Butter.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson highlighted the importance of preserving the city’s historic and cultural spaces. "Bixby Park is an iconic community hub with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, once hosting the Iowa State Society Picnics and speeches by politicians such as then presidential candidate Herbert Hoover," Mayor Richardson said, according to the city's announcement. The refurbishment project, wrapped under the Elevate ’28 initiative, was designed to extend the life of historical elements like the bandshell and enhance park security, visitor safety, and accessibility.
This comprehensive park upgrade also focuses on modernizing and securing the space for future generations. A series of enhancements, including upgraded paving, new ADA-compliant picnic tables, and improved restroom access, have been implemented. For our furry friends, the dog park now boasts upgraded fencing, additional benches, a hydration station, and a security camera. Measures to ensure improved lighting throughout the park were taken in a bid to augment security and overall visitor experience.
Emphasizing the significance of the park’s improvements, Councilwoman Cindy Allen remarked, "This is more than just an upgrade to Bixby Park—it’s a reinvestment in a space that, has brought joy to generations of Long Beach families," as per the city's press release. She stressed on how each update aims to make the park more welcoming and functional for all. Funding for the project came from multiple sources, including a California State Parks grant, and Measure A allocations over two fiscal years.
Visitors and residents interested in the specific details of the project can learn more on the project's webpage and can also find additional information on the Elevate ’28 initiative, which encompasses infrastructure enhancements across Long Beach over a period of five years. The Office of Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen is sponsoring the celebratory concert, which invites community members to convene and delight in the park's rejuvenated ambiance and modern upgrades amidst melodies synonymous with an era gone by.
