RDA Partnership
The ArtExchange is a public-private partnership with the Long Beach Redevelopment Agency (RDA). Through this partnership, the RDA has provided funds for the rehabilitation of the existing building and new construction. In this way, the RDA has served as a crucial catalyst for the launch of the ArtExchange.
For more than 45 years, the mission of the Long Beach RDA has been to enhance the quality of life by improving blighted areas of Long Beach, revitalizing neighborhoods, promoting economic development, creating jobs, providing affordable housing and encouraging citizen participation.
Throughout its seven project areas, the RDA partners with local businesses and the community to revitalize neighborhoods and strengthen communities. Through these partnerships and with the support of our citizen-led Project Area Committees, the Long Beach RDA has grown to become one of the leading redevelopment agencies in the state.
Redevelopment enables communities to enhance and expand housing, invest in public infrastructure and support local businesses, while encouraging new and sustained economic investments within already developed areas. Redevelopment also helps to reduce crime by eliminating blighted properties and promoting more opportunities for the creation of jobs and economic development.
The RDA’s Support of the Arts
Public art helps to create a sense of civic identity and pride. As part of the RDA’s efforts to improve the quality of life in Long Beach, the agency is a strong supporter of the arts. Since 2000 the RDA has invested more than $3 million in public arts projects including temporary art exhibits in vacant storefronts in highly visible corridors and an array of distinct murals across Long Beach.
The RDA’s support of the ArtExchange began more than 10 years ago when the concept was first brought forth by members of the community seeking to create a gateway from the Downtown core to the East Village Arts District. By partnering with local artists and residents, the RDA worked to bring the concept to fruition, and is proud of its role in creating the ArtExchange.
About the RDA
The RDA Board is made up of seven members of the community, appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. This Board oversees all redevelopment activities in Long Beach. Three of the Board’s members are selected from nominations submitted by the Project Area Committees. Directed by the Agency Board, the RDA Executive Director oversees a team of more than 30 staff, whose responsibilities include development, planning, architecture, real estate, property management, finance, marketing and public relations and government affairs.
For more information about the Long Beach RDA, please visit www.LongBeachRDA.org