Zone-In: City Core
Location
Long Beach, CA
timeline
2021—2023
Role
Consultant
Services
More Info
The Zone In: City Core project was a comprehensive urban revitalization initiative aimed at transforming the heart of Long Beach into a vibrant and sustainable hub.
This update to the zoning regulations and supportive policies for Central Long Beach encourages the development of new affordable housing, cultural preservation, a greater mix of neighborhood-serving uses, community economic vitality, and pedestrian-friendly environments. Through an equity-based framework, Zone In: City Core is focused on both changes to the zoning code and development standards as well as changes to the planning process itself. This was grounded in a community power and capacity-building process in which the people most impacted by planning decisions, including young people, renters, and people of color, are prioritized in the decision making process.
Urban + Systems
Planning + Policy
Building + Interior
Landscape Architecture
Graphic
City Fabrick developed a brand system for Zone-In: City Core that could fit within the City of Long Beach’s communication standards while still having a unique and recognizable style. Inspired by planning maps, the logo is made up of 5 colorful parcels that highlight the various zoning uses and complimented by a bold offset outline that echoes the outlined shapes of the City’s Community Development Logo. The supporting graphics and color palette help keep the brand identity feeling welcoming and the use of purple as a primary base color helps differentiate this campaign from the City of Long Beach’s other communication materials.
Engagement
Central to the success of the Zone In: City Core project was its robust and inclusive engagement strategy. City Fabrick as the lead consultant partnered with local nonprofit organizations, proactively involved residents, community groups, business owners, and other stakeholders throughout three phases of public outreach, capacity-building, and urban planning. Various engagement tools and strategies had been utilized to gather feedback, insights, and ideas from a wide spectrum of voices, with an emphasis on historically marginalized communities. By placing a strong emphasis on collaboration and transparency, the project ensured that the final zoning recommendations and accompanying policies align with the aspirations and needs of the community. This engagement-driven approach not only strengthened the sense of ownership but also guarantees that the City Core area becomes a reflection of the shared vision of Long Beach's residents and stakeholders.
