The Californer - City of Long Beach Launches Community Survey for the Urban Forest Plan

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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach has announced its plans to develop an Urban Forest Plan (UFP) with the goal of growing, maintaining, and protecting the city's trees and green spaces. This plan will serve as a roadmap for the management and planning of Long Beach's tree canopy in public parks, along streets, and throughout neighborhoods for years to come.

The city is seeking community input in order to create a comprehensive and inclusive plan that addresses key environmental and public health challenges. Trees play a crucial role in cooling neighborhoods during extreme heat, improving air and water quality, supporting biodiversity, enhancing walkability and public safety, as well as contributing to community identity and physical and mental health. However, not all communities have equal access to these benefits, particularly those disproportionately affected by disinvestment and climate risk.

To gather feedback from residents on their experiences with trees, their priorities for future investments, and ideas for improving access to green spaces citywide, the city has launched a survey. The survey will be open until October 31st, 2025 and is available online in English, Spanish, Khmer, and Tagalog. For those without internet access, public computers at any open Long Beach Public Library location can be used to complete the survey. Print surveys will also be available through various outreach methods. Residents can also request a print survey to be mailed to them by contacting City Fabrick at Hannah@CityFabrick.org or 562.901.2128.

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The UFP planning process is being facilitated in partnership with local nonprofit City Fabrick and environmental planning firm Dudek. It includes a robust multilingual public engagement campaign with pop-up events, listening sessions, open houses, and an online storytelling campaign. Community feedback will play a central role in identifying priorities and strategies that reflect the lived experiences and values of Long Beach residents.

The UFP aligns with numerous adopted City plans such as the Land Use Element, Open Space Element, Parks Strategic Plan, and various Specific Plans. It also supports the implementation of the City's Climate Action Plan and advances priorities outlined in the Westside Promise and Racial Equity and Reconciliation Plan. Additionally, the plan aligns with the City's Strategic Vision 2030, particularly in areas focused on sustainability, equity, and quality of life.

The UFP is expected to be completed in mid-2026 and will serve as a vital tool in achieving the City's environmental, public health, and equity goals. For more information and updates on the plan's progress, residents can visit lbcity.info/forest.

Media inquiries can be directed to Hannah Vasilis, Urban Forest Coordinator for the Office of Climate Action and Sustainability at Hannah.Vasilis@longbeach.gov or 562.570.5982.

Filed Under: Government, City

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