Long Beach launches Queen Mary District redevelopment and zoning plan

Under the bright California sun, the Long Beach community gathered for a momentous occasion—the demolition ceremony for English Village, a significant step towards revitalizing the waterfront near the iconic Queen Mary. City officials, including the mayor and director Beau Martinez, expressed their excitement about the future of this historic site, emphasizing a shared vision for a vibrant and economically thriving Long Beach.

The mayor highlighted the importance of partnerships, particularly with the Port of Long Beach, which has provided crucial funding for the ongoing improvements in the area. "This is just the beginning," he stated, as he outlined plans to develop a comprehensive land use and zoning strategy aimed at shaping the long-term future of the waterfront. The mayor reflected on the rich history of the Queen Mary, noting that it has been a part of the community for over 50 years, and expressed gratitude for the hard work of various teams dedicated to this project.

Director Beau Martinez echoed the mayor's sentiments, describing the demolition as part of the next evolution of the Queen Mary District. He emphasized the city's commitment to driving new business and investment, particularly in sectors like tourism and entertainment. "Let's build America's next great international city," he urged, rallying the community to embrace the opportunities ahead.

As the ceremony unfolded, it became clear that this demolition marks not just the end of an era for English Village, but the beginning of a new chapter for Long Beach—a chapter filled with promise, collaboration, and a renewed focus on creating a thriving waterfront that honors its past while looking boldly towards the future.