Image courtesy of the Downtown Long Beach Associates.

Local creatives and innovators can bring their beautification ideas to life through the Downtown Long Beach Associates (DLBA)’s Placemaking Challenge.

In 2015 a record-breaking pool of more than 50 applicants submitted their ideas to transform public spaces into more livable spaces, with no less expected for this year’s round of submissions. Application forms are due on Friday, August 5 by 5:00PM.

Individual projects can receive up to $10,000 from a $40,000 pool after proposals have been evaluated. Previous projects have varied, from the upgraded amphitheater in Cesar Chavez Park, awarded in 2014 and 2015, to historical wayfinding signage, awarded in 2015.

“We really wanted to increase accessibility to possibly score a grant,” said Sean Warner, Placemaking Manager at DLBA in a statement. “New to this year’s application process is a streamlined wholly online version of the application, meaning that applicants have only one application that they can save and return to later if need be. Just importantly, we’ve created workshops that we will offer to those who are seeking one-on-one support to strengthen their application or simply have questions about the process.”

The DLBA’s Public Realm Committee is seeking submissions that “capitalize on the uniqueness of Downtown Long Beach, improve the aesthetic quality and user experience of public spaces, and/or enhance the perception of public safety,” according to the release.

Applicants who have begun their online application by Friday, July 1 are eligible to receive one-on-one support. Additionally, on Wednesday, July 6 at 6:00PM, the DLBA will host an open workshop where attendees can receive assistance, with no prior online registration required. The location for that event will soon be determined.

For the latest information, visit the DLBA’s Placemaking Challenge page, here.