Weekly Updates | November 21, 2025 | | |
Happy Friday, District 5! As we prepare for next week’s holiday and the season of celebrations that follows, the LB Recycles team reminds us of ways to recycle right and reduce food waste. See below for more information, as well as this week’s updates from Public Works, the Long Beach Public Libraries, and more.
Earlier this week, my colleagues and I on the Mobility, Ports, & Infrastructure (MPI) Committee heard a presentation from Public Works regarding the Cal Heights portion of the Orange Ave Backbone Bikeway project. See below for a brief recap and additional links for more information.
This weekend, find ways to engage and connect with community! You can support local business while you get a start on your holiday shopping at one (or all!) of three Fall-themed pop-up markets at LBX this weekend, whether you stop by from 5 – 9pm tonight, Nov. 21st, from 12 – 7pm on Saturday, Nov. 22nd, or from 11am – 6pm on Sunday, Nov. 23rd. Additionally, the LB Shakespeare Co. is here to help you get into the holiday spirit, as their show “Cinderella Magical Christmas” opens tonight, Nov. 21st, and will run on weekends through Dec. 7th. Be sure to save the dates for upcoming holiday activities in the district as well, such as the Citywide Tree Lighting on Dec. 3rd, the 3rd Annual Cal Heights Tree Lighting on Dec. 4th, and the inaugural Santa’s Festive Forest at Campfire of Long Beach on Dec. 12th. Learn more about these and other upcoming events in the flyers below!
As a friendly reminder, next week both Thursday, Nov. 27th, and Friday, Nov. 28th, are observed for the Thanksgiving holiday – a number of city services and facilities will be closed on one or both days, including our CD5 office. Following the holiday, keep in mind that Nov. 29th is Small Business Saturday! Learn more below about the benefits of shopping small and supporting local business!
Finally, I’d like to remind you that the next City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, at 5pm in the City Hall Chambers. The full agenda and a list of items of interest will be included in a future newsletter. I encourage you to attend or watch online.
As always, I am grateful for your continued engagement with me and my office, and I look forward to seeing you out in the community.
Working together,
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Megan Kerr, Councilwoman
Long Beach, District 5
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District 5 Office
CD5 Community Meeting Recap
Last night, my team and I were at Wardlow Park for this month’s CD5 Community meeting, where we were joined by Parks, Recreation, & Marine (PRM) Acting Director Stephen Scott, as he shared details of PRM’s responsibilities and programs for parks in CD5 and across the city. Acting Dir. Scott shared about his 27 years of experience with the city, and the PRM Department's wide range of work to care for, maintain, and provide programs across our city's 166 parks and facilities. He answered questions about park rangers, park ambassadors, and partnerships with outside organizations, as well as questions specific to local CD5 parks. Thanks to all who attended and participated in the discussion!
Please note, this was our last monthly meeting of 2025, as we will not be holding one this December. However, we plan to resume in January. Keep an eye out in future newsletters for more information!
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Mobility, Ports, & Infrastructure Committee
Orange Ave. Project Presentation at MPI Meeting - Recap
Earlier this week, the Mobility, Ports, & Infrastructure Committee heard a presentation from Public Works regarding next steps for the Orange Ave. Backbone Bikeway Project. Thank you to all who came out in person and/or submitted online public comment for sharing your thoughts on the record and participating in this part of the public process. While we understand the decision to move forward with the design plan known as Alternative 2 has its pros and cons, the important thing to remember is this citywide infrastructure improvement project will continue to move forward in its goals to increase access and connectivity for multimodal transportation across the city and increase safety for all users of Orange Ave. Learn more about the project by reviewing the MPI presentation and/or recorded discussion, and sign up for further updates at the project webpage.
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Public Works
Studebaker Rd. Transformation Project
Recently, Public Works distributed letters to residents near Studebaker Rd of construction work related to the Studebaker Rd. Transformation project was expected to begin this month. However, the contractor has experienced unanticipated delays in onboarding subcontractors that, coupled with the anticipated weather and upcoming holidays, has impacted the construction start date. Construction is now expected to begin January 2026. For ongoing project updates as they become available, visit the Studebaker Rd. Transformation sign-up page.
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Carson St. Complete Streets Project
Those living and traveling on or near Carson St. may have recently seen posted notices go up regarding tree removals along the corridor. As part of Carson St. Complete Streets Project, seven trees have been slated for removal due to poor health or root-related infrastructure conflicts. The project, which spans from Carson & Orange eastward to the city limits with Lakewood (by the railroad tracks), will include pavement and infrastructure improvements such as resurfacing of Carson, reconstruction of curb ramps and sidewalks, curb and gutter repairs, and new traffic striping. Additional safety enhancements along the corridor will include a Class II Bikeway, continental crosswalks at Orange, Cherry, Gundry, and Walnut, refuge islands at Gundry and Walnut, and upgraded transit amenities. All of these features are intended to increase safety, access, and quality of life for all users of Carson St.
Unforeseen delays with Long Beach Utilities’ work at Orange and Carson have impacted the construction start date for this project, however we are hopeful work will begin before the end of the year. We will continue to provide updates as they arise; in the meantime, learn more about the planned work at the project webpage.
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Food Assistance Resources
As the record-length federal government shutdown comes to an end, there continue to be impacts for those affected by a loss of CalFresh benefits during the closure. The City of Long Beach remains committed to keeping the community informed and sharing available resources to those in need. Residents in need of immediate food assistance are encouraged to explore the resources listed below. Those who are able may wish to support local food banks to help neighbors in this time of need.
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Community Food Distributions
(Sponsored by LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn)
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Food Finders at Admiral Kidd Park, (2125 Santa Fe Ave., 90810)
9am on Saturday Nov. 22.
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Local & Regional Resources
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CSULB: Support for Students
On Campus Resources:
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Laurén Chalmers '83 Beach Pantry - The Laurén Chalmers '83 Beach Pantry operates as the official food pantry for Long Beach State University (LBSU) students. The pantry provides food items and other essentials such as toiletries and school supplies for students in need. Located at the Student Health Services, entrance is at the back of the building on the ground floor.
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CSULB Basic Needs Department - CalFresh recipients whose benefits are delayed can receive meal swipes. Documentation of receiving CalFresh benefits required.
Office Located in Petersen Hall 127 | Open Monday – Friday, 8am - 5pm
562-985-2038
Additional resources:
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Long Beach Community Table - ANYONE may come to pick up food without an application, ID, or appointment. They also have popup locations on the weekends, listed on their website. Deliveries are possible, too, for those who qualify.
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Help Me Help You - You do not have to show ID or proof of income! Upon arrival, sign-in, answer a few questions, and receive free food! Two local locations:
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The Museum of Latin American Art (628 Alamitos Avenue, 90802)
Entrance on 6th Street, walk-up and drive-thru
Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month | 4pm to 5pm
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Revive Church (668 Obispo Ave, 90814), walk-up and drive-thru
Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month | 1pm to 2pm
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Long Beach Recycles
Tips for a Low-Waste Holiday Season
‘Tis the season of celebrations, with plenty of chances to reduce food waste together! Follow these tips to reduce food waste during your holiday celebrations:
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Share leftovers with guests and neighbors! Have your guests bring their own containers to take home leftovers.
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Store produce to last! Print a produce storage guide for your kitchen or visit the LB Recycles website for tips on how to store produce. Proper produce storage can help save you money and trips to the grocery store!
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Plan menus and make a shopping list! A little planning goes a long way. Take inventory of what you have at home before each shopping trip.
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Donate excess food to a local organization! Have food to spare? Share with your community and donate to a local organization in need. Visit the LB Recycles website for a list of LB organizations that accept donated food.
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As you prepare meals, remember to separate food scraps and ensure the following items end up in your green cart:
- Meat, eggs, bones, and shells
- Coffee grounds
- Bread and pasta
- Cheese
- Expired or spoiled food without packaging
- Vegetables and fruits
- Food-soiled paper (napkins, paper towels, pizza boxes)
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Long Beach Airport
LGB Ready for Thanksgiving Travel Rush
With Thanksgiving around the corner, LGB is prepared to welcome an elevated number of travelers and is encouraging passengers to plan ahead for a smooth, stress-free journey. To help passengers travel with ease this Thanksgiving, LGB recommends the following tips:
- Arrive 90 minutes early, especially for morning flights, to allow adequate time to pass through security.
- For drivers picking up passengers, please wait in one of two free Cell Phone Waiting Lots, located on the northwest and southwest corners of Lakewood Blvd and E Donald Douglas Dr., until your passenger calls to let you know they are ready on the curb. Circling around Douglas Dr or waiting at the curb increases congestion for everyone.
- Parking is available in Structures A and B and may be reserved in advance at lgb.org/parking. Valet service is conveniently located at 4137 Donald Douglas Dr., just north of the Historic Terminal.
- Check your airline’s baggage rules and verify flight schedules in advance.
- Packing properly can facilitate the screening process. Visit the TSA’s What Can I Bring? website for details.
- Travelers with pets and service animals should note the location of the relief area north of the Historic Terminal and check their airline’s policies for traveling with animals in advance.
Learn more in the recent press release. Wishing you safe travels this holiday season!
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Small Business Saturday
Shop Small & Support Local Business on Saturday, Nov. 29
Saturday, Nov. 29th is Small Business Saturday! Occurring between “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday,” Small Business Saturday is a nationwide initiative to promote and celebrate small businesses, and encourage community members to shop locally and support the small businesses that are vital part of our city’s culture and economy. In addition to discovering local gems and supporting neighbors, there are plenty of reasons to shop locally year round:
- Shopping locally reduces your environmental impact.
- Local businesses are more likely to reinvest in their communities.
- For every $100 spent at a local business, $68 will stay in the community.
- Small businesses increase local competition and innovation.
- Small businesses account for over 60% of all new jobs.
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Long Beach Public Library
GetSetUp - Online Classes for 55+
Seniors looking for new opportunities to master a new skill, explore a hobby, make new friends, and safely connect with a community of peers should sign up to GetSetUp this holiday season! The Long Beach Public Library partners with GetSetUp to offer free virtual classes for adults ages 55 and older. Hundreds of live classes are available, taught by other seniors and hosted on GetSetUp’s safe video-learning platform. Live phone and chat support are available to assist learners during or outside of classes. Thanks to a global GetSetUp community, classes are available nearly 24/7 and in various languages. There’s something for everyone!
No matter what you celebrate, you can join the many classes and special holiday sessions throughout this winter, with topics ranging from holiday craft projects to “crowd-winning recipes,” to tips on staying healthy, or avoiding holiday scams, and so much more. Learn more on LBPL’s info page!
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Port of Long Beach
Shoemaker Bridge Ramps Demolition Meeting | Dec. 2
The Port of Long Beach will host a public outreach kickoff meeting in December to inform the public and solicit feedback about a planned project next year that will demolish the ramps connecting Shoemaker Bridge to the North Harbor area. These plans are part of the construction of the Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility, which will help to accommodate the expected growth of cargo volume, while taking trucks off the road and improving the environment.
The meeting will be held from 8:30 – 10:30am on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, at the Port of Long Beach Maintenance Facility (725 Harbor Plaza, 90802). RSVP at polb.com/shoemaker. Learn more in the Port’s recent news release.
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CalKIDS
Available Scholarship Funds for Constituents
Did you know that approximately 40,000 Long Beach children have CalKIDS scholarship money waiting for them? CalKIDS is a children's development account program administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, an agency of the State of California. The program provides children born in California and eligible public-school students with a CalKIDS Scholarship worth up to $1,500 for college or career training! There are two eligible groups for the program, each with unique award amounts. All children born in California on or after July 1, 2022 can claim a CalKIDS Scholarship; and low-income public-school students enrolled in grades 1-12 during the 2021-2022 academic year, and second graders in subsequent academic years, may be eligible. Scholarships are automatically created for eligible children and students. However, parents or students must claim their CalKIDS Scholarship to access the funds. Claiming a scholarship is quick and easy. Visit CalKIDS.org or review this Fast Facts flyer to learn more and get started!
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Early Learning Hub
Give Thanks for Reliable, Affordable Childcare
The Long Beach Early Learning Hub helps families connect to childcare, explore financial assistance options, and enroll in care with one universal application that links families to 140+ local providers. Create an account and apply today to find a childcare program that fits your family’s needs—local scholarships may also be available for qualifying families, as funding allows. Learn more at thehublb.org.
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Immigration Resources - Know Your Rights
With the US Immigrations & Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity occurring throughout our region, it’s increasingly important for everyone, including our immigrant communities, to know their rights and have access to resources. While immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, we understand that the current actions are continuing to escalate tensions and can undermine trust within our neighborhoods. All residents of Southern California and Long Beach deserve to live in peace and with a sense of security, regardless of their background.
I and the City of Long Beach remain committed to upholding the dignity and rights of every person. As evidenced by our Council-supported Long Beach Values Act, we remain committed to work alongside community organizations to ensure that all who call Long Beach home feel safe, supported, and valued.
For more information on the Long Beach Values act, visit: longbeach.gov/valuesact. For information and resources on a local community organization who is doing supportive work in Long Beach, visit orale.org. Additionally, The LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs regularly holds “Know Your Rights” Workshops that you can join; review their full calendar and learn more at oia.lacounty.gov.
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Community Shout Out
Three CD5 Legacy Businesses Recognized!
This morning, in partnership with the Economic Development & Opportunity Dept., we recognized four longstanding CD5 businesses as certified Legacy Businesses! The Legacy Business Program is designed to identify, recognize, and support longstanding businesses throughout the city, with the goal of preserving and amplifying these establishments’ history and community impact.
Today, we recognized Gems & Jewels Fine Jewelry (4130 Atlantic Ave, Unit 102, 90807), Heather R. Chambers, CPA, Inc. (1230 E Wardlow Rd, 90807), and the Long Beach Ballet Arts Center (1122 E Wardlow Rd, 90807). These businesses, in their own ways, contribute to and support the neighborhood’s cultural life, diversity, and identity. Join me in congratulating these amazing local businesses, click the links to learn more about each business, and be sure to check them out when you’re in the neighborhood!
| | | | Upcoming Meetings & Events | | |
Memos to the Mayor & Council
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Upcoming
City Council Meeting
Tues. December 2, 2025, 5:00pm
411 W Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
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