Linc Housing Begins Construction of Senior Homes in Long Beach's East Village

Linc Housing, a dedicated nonprofit organization, has officially announced the commencement of construction on its latest project, the Armory Arts Collective. Located in Long Beach's East Village Arts District, this ambitious development aims to provide 64 affordable housing units tailored for seniors.

This initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the pressing need for low-income housing among older residents aged 55 and above. With housing prices rapidly increasing, many seniors find themselves priced out of their own neighborhoods. The Armory Arts Collective aims to counter this trend by offering comfortable living arrangements for those earning between 30% and 70% of the area median income.

A New Chapter for the Historic Armory

The project will repurpose the long-abandoned Armory building, which has been a part of the community since 1930. The redevelopment plan includes not only restoring the original Art Deco architectural features of the Armory but also constructing an additional five stories, emphasizing adaptive reuse that breathes new life into historical structures. Mayor Rex Richardson expressed excitement about this project, highlighting its alignment with the city’s goals of sustainability and community equity. He remarked that this development serves to enhance affordable housing options, thereby supporting older adults who live on fixed incomes.

Councilmember Mary Zendejas echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the Armory Arts Collective represents a vital step in combating homelessness in Downtown Long Beach. She pointed out how the design aims to create an engaging and safe environment, fostering community connections around Gumbiner Park.

Features of Armory Arts Collective

The new housing community will consist of 56 one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom apartments, including accommodations for a resident manager. An impressive commitment to accessibility is demonstrated through half of the units being fully wheelchair accessible and others designed with features for individuals with hearing or visual impairments. These thoughtful considerations aim to cater to the diverse needs of senior residents, ensuring everyone feels welcome and supported.

In addition to housing, Linc Housing plans to convert portions of the historic Armory into community spaces offering vital amenities like a community room, arts and crafts studio, and wellness spaces. Residents will also enjoy a landscaped courtyard and outdoor decks, designed specifically to cultivate a sense of community and belonging.

Community Development and Support

President and COO of Linc Housing, Suny Lay Chang, asserted that the Armory Arts Collective is a beacon of how historic preservation can seamlessly intertwine with contemporary needs, providing affordable housing for seniors who significantly contributed to the community's development. This sentiment was echoed by Gene Rascon from the Historic St. Anthony Neighborhood Association, who anticipates a revitalization of the area with the introduction of senior residents fostering safety and vibrancy.

Funding for this transformative project comes from a multitude of sources, ensuring a robust financial foundation. Notable contributions include $6.5 million from the Long Beach Community Investment Company, a $5.2 million loan from the city, and further support from various foundations aimed at enhancing housing opportunities.

Designed by Studio One Eleven with Walton Construction as the general contractor, the project aspires to achieve Green Point Rated certification, reflecting a commitment to sustainable building practices. Completion is scheduled for Winter 2027, promising to establish a new community hub for seniors in Long Beach.

For additional information regarding the availability of apartments and the application process, updates will be provided closer to the project's completion date. Linc Housing exemplifies dedication and innovation in addressing critical housing needs, continuing its mission of creating thriving communities across California.