Long Beach : Downzoning OKd for Area Near Rose Park

In the latest of a series of downzoning battles, the Long Beach City Council has approved reducing the zoning of a 6-square-block residential area west of Rose Park.

After hearing from residents on both sides of the issue, the council Tuesday ordered that only one housing unit, instead of two, be allowed on parcels on Junipero and Dawson avenues, between 7th and 10th streets, and on Raymond Avenue between 7th and 8th streets.

However, the council allowed the current policy of two housing units per parcel to remain along Raymond Avenue between 8th and 10th streets.

Residents were nearly split on the issue. Proponents of downzoning argued that they wanted to preserve their California bungalow-style homes and the area’s character although it is surrounded by boxy apartment buildings.

Opponents said they wanted to retain the option of adding a second unit to their homes which would produce rental income and add to their home’s value.