The Californer - City of Long Beach Unveils Design for Cambodia Town Grand Entrance

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Long Beach ~ Long Beach, California - The City of Long Beach has announced the design for the highly anticipated Cambodia Town Grand Entrance, a landmark that will celebrate the rich history and cultural contributions of Cambodia Town. The final design was revealed to the community by Mayor Rex Richardson and Sixth District Councilwoman Dr. Suely Saro at the annual Cambodia Town Parade and Culture Festival on Saturday, April 4, 2026.

Mayor Richardson expressed his pride in the unveiling of the Cambodia Town Gateway, stating that it reflects the pride, history, and cultural richness of Long Beach's Cambodian community. He also emphasized that this grand entrance will serve as a powerful tribute to a community whose resilience and contributions have helped shape the city. As part of their ongoing efforts to invest in neighborhoods through Elevate '28, this landmark will welcome residents and visitors for generations to come.

Located along Anaheim Street between Atlantic and Junipero Avenues, Cambodia Town is home to the largest Cambodian community in the United States. It is known for its many Khmer-owned businesses and serves as a hub for Cambodian art, music, cuisine, and cultural heritage.

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The City worked closely with the community and local organizations throughout the design process to create a grand entrance that honors Cambodian culture while celebrating and uplifting Cambodia Town's history and identity. The initial concept designs were informed by the Cambodia Town Advisory Group, who provided insight on Cambodian culture, symbolism, and significant motifs. The final design was chosen based on direct community feedback at the 2025 Cambodia Town Parade and Culture Festival as well as an online survey available in English, Spanish, Khmer, and Tagalog. Over 1,000 votes and survey responses were collected both online and in person with Concept 1 receiving approximately 69% of support.

Councilwoman Saro expressed her excitement for this project as it is a meaningful step towards honoring the Cambodian community's heritage and identity. She also emphasized the importance of working together with residents to create a gateway that reflects the pride, resilience, and vibrancy of the neighborhood.

The Cambodia Town Grand Entrance Project is one of many projects delivered by the Department of Public Works to enhance the neighborhood. It will join other projects such as the Mark Twain Library Improvements, MLK Jr. Park Swimming Pool Improvements, Burnett Neighborhood Library Energy Efficiency Upgrades, and the recently completed MacArthur Park Rehabilitation project. These projects are part of the Elevate '28 Infrastructure Investment Plan, a historic initiative dedicated to enhancing Long Beach's parks, community facilities, mobility access, and streets.

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Josh Hickman, Director of Public Works, expressed his team's pride in leading the development of a landmark that honors the cultural richness of Cambodia Town. He also highlighted how community feedback was essential in creating a gateway that not only celebrates Cambodian heritage but also supports local businesses and enhances public space for residents and visitors.

Construction for the Cambodia Town Grand Entrance is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2027 pending full funding and completion of the bid and award process. The City is actively working to identify potential funding sources while the Department of Public Works continues to advance the project. While most of the funding has been secured, the Cambodia Town Advisory Group has launched a fundraising campaign for additional funds to support a perforated screen that will encase the gateway sign.

For more information about this project, visit lbcity.info/CTGrandEntrance.

Filed Under: Government, City

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