Linc Housing's New Affordable Apartments in Long Beach
On May 29, 2026, a significant milestone was reached in Long Beach, California, as Linc Housing, a nonprofit organization dedicated to affordable housing, initiated construction on a groundbreaking project named Thrive. This new development will introduce 73 affordable units specifically designed for families and individuals earning between 30% and 60% of the area's median income.
Mayor Rex Richardson, along with City Councilmember Kristina Duggan and other local leaders, gathered to celebrate the start of this essential housing project, which will be located in the Zaferia neighborhood. As characterized by Mayor Richardson, the Thrive community is strategically positioned near essential services such as schools, parks, libraries, and public transit. This location aims to ease the financial burden on working families while enhancing their access to various community resources.
Thrive comprises a combination of different unit types: 21 three-bedroom, 16 two-bedroom, and 36 one-bedroom apartments, including an on-site manager's unit. Notably, 25% of these homes are specifically set aside for residents with disabilities, highlighting the project’s inclusive vision. According to Councilmember Duggan, this development is a testament to community collaboration, responding directly to the needs expressed by local voices.
The complex features innovative design elements that harmonize with the surrounding residential area. The development includes two buildings: a four-story building with 50 units and a three-story building with 23 units, ensuring that it fits seamlessly into the neighborhood's visual landscape. This project has transformed a previously neglected and vacant lot into a thriving and interconnected community space, thanks to concerted planning efforts with local authorities.
Incorporating elements inspired by midcentury regionalism, the housing complex will offer various amenities aimed at enhancing residents' quality of life. Features include on-site vehicle and bicycle parking, spaces for resident services, a community room, and outdoor areas, such as a large courtyard with barbecue facilities, play equipment for children, a dog run, and two outdoor decks. Moreover, Thrive is designed to be a completely electric community, eliminating reliance on gas infrastructure.
Suny Lay Chang, president and COO of Linc Housing, expressed the organization's strong commitment to Long Beach, emphasizing the importance of creating thoughtfully designed communities where families can establish long-term roots and flourish. This initiative represents a crucial step in addressing the affordable housing crisis and fostering connections within the neighborhood.
Financial support for Thrive comes from diverse sources, including private funding from U.S. Bank and the California Community Reinvestment Corporation, in addition to public financing from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, the City of Long Beach, and the Long Beach Community Investment Company. The project is also benefitting from project-based vouchers provided by the Housing Authority of Long Beach.
The Thrive community is located in a vibrant neighborhood that provides easy access to various local amenities, including Bryant Elementary School, grocery stores, the Brewitt Neighborhood Library, and numerous public transportation options.
Architectural design for Thrive is being led by BAR Architects, and United Building Company is overseeing the construction. The project is anticipated to be completed in late 2027. Information regarding applications for residency will be released as the completion date approaches.
For more than 40 years, Linc Housing has played a pivotal role in developing affordable housing across California. With a focus on excellence in design, management, and resident services, Linc has successfully built over 10,000 homes in 108 communities statewide, catering to families, seniors, and individuals with unique needs. To learn more about Linc Housing or to contribute to their mission, visit
www.linchousing.org.