Image courtesy of the DLBA. 

In April, a sprawling, looping, smooth work of art will sit at the corner of Ocean and Pine, all in the name of creating an arty, social gathering space.

The Downtown Long Beach Associates (DLBA) announced plans to construct the new space, dubbed the “Loop,” with the help of Stereo.Bot leading the way with design, under the leadership of Vice Mayor Suja Lowenthal.

The Loop will rest within a 7,700 square foot space that has remained dormant since the demolition of the Jergins Trust Building in 1985. The DLBA will oversee its construction and plan events, programming and management within the space, following its opening.

“The creation of a new social gathering space in Downtown Long Beach will give its residents, visitors, and workers a place to relax, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors,” said Sean Warner, the placemaking manager for DLBA in a statement. “The team of Stereo.Bot, Gensler, and Valley Crest have designed the space so that it is both eye-catching and welcoming in nature. The space will be able to accommodate a variety of activities and programming options from reception space for conventioneers to fitness classes to musical performances, such as our own Live After 5. We look forward to working with our community partners in bringing life to The Loop.”

Stereo.Bot is known for creating “dynamic temporary installations that are flexible and vibrant” at large events such as Coachella, according to a release. When the Loop’s term is deemed over on Pine Avenue, the structure will move to become part of another neighborhood in need of activation.

“I am thrilled to have partnered with DLBA to finally activate this corner of Ocean and Pine,” said Lowenthal in a statement. “The Loop will serve as a focal point no matter the direction one is heading, while giving our City and business district a creative and evolving space that captures our spirit of innovation.”

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