SPARK at Midtown

As a part of our expansion to the greater LA area, WHA was given the opportunity to be a part of an RFP process with LINC Housing Corporation for the development of a mixed-use, affordable housing project located at 1900 Long Beach Boulevard. With hard work and effort by the entire development team, we put together a winning proposal and were awarded the project by the City of Long Beach.

The Long Beach Midtown Specific Plan vision and SPARK at Midtown provides several guiding principles including:
– Enhancing Mobility
– Safety and Wellness
– Supporting Sustainability
– Creating Urban Amenities
– Promoting Community Interaction

Program:
1) 95 Affordable Housing Units
2) YMCA
3) Bicycle Shop and Bike Storage
4) Community Demonstration Kitchen
5) Flexible Retail Space
6) Community Parklet

Rhea Street will be transformed into a community parklet open to the public. Lead by the Midtown Specific Plan of “Pavement to Plazas”, this flexible outdoor amenity space will provide an area for community interaction. An amphitheater, book ended by the YMCA and the community demonstration kitchen, will lead from the residential courtyard into an open lawn and plaza. The amphitheater is designed not only as a grand entryway to SPARK at Midtown’s community area, but is also intended to be used as a gathering and sitting area for people to engage with one another. The parklet can be used for community events such as concerts in the park or movie nights. The plaza provides space for wellness programs or health fairs and will include outdoor fitness equipment. A small stage and lawn area can be used for yoga and other exercise classes. Spacious seating will promote social interaction and can serve as an outside dining area.

The contemporary architecture and vibrant colors complement the style of the growing neighborhood. It will fuel a new, enlivened and engaging character to inspire future developments. By promoting new community amenities, increasing public financial benefit, economically empowering Long Beach residents and providing affordable housing, Spark will help ignite, and continue, the transformation of Midtown.