Nonprofit Linc Housing has broken ground on a new affordable housing community at the historic Armory building. The development, named Armory Arts Collective, will deliver 64 units for seniors.
Construction Begins on Armory Arts Collective
Linc Housing has started construction on the Armory Arts Collective in the East Village Arts District of Long Beach. The Armory building has sat vacant for years. It will be transformed into a five-story residential building through adaptive reuse.
The development will accommodate seniors aged 55 and older earning between 30% and 70% of the area’s median income. The project aims to address the need for affordable and stable housing in Long Beach.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson and City Councilmember Mary Zendejas joined the groundbreaking ceremony. The mayor emphasized that the project blends historic preservation with new residential development to expand affordable housing options for seniors.
“By reactivating a historic landmark and adding new density near transit, we’re expanding affordable housing options for older adults on fixed incomes, while strengthening the long-term livability and economic resilience of the City of Long Beach. Armory Arts Collective reflects our commitment to ensuring that longtime residents can continue to age with dignity in the community they call home,” added Richardson.
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Inside the Affordable Housing Community
Armory Arts Collective will offer a mix of thoughtfully designed apartment units.There will be 56 one-bedroom apartments and eight two-bedroom units, with one designated as a manager’s unit. Half the apartments will be fully wheelchair accessible, while the remaining units will include features for residents with hearing or visual impairments.
The amenities at the project consist of a community room, bicycle storage, an arts and craft studio, and specific health and wellness facilities. Outdoor features include a landscaped courtyard and deck. A resident services coordinator will also organize programs and activities to support residents’ well-being.
The Armory building, approximately 26,500 square feet, was originally constructed in 1930. It was used for public functions before closing in 2018. The redevelopment will retain its Art Deco architectural design.
Suny Lay Chang, president and COO, Linc Housing, stated that “Armory Arts Collective demonstrates how we can preserve Long Beach’s historic legacy while delivering high-quality, affordable homes for seniors who are increasingly priced out of the communities they helped build.”
Project Construction and Funding Details
The project is supported by a diverse financing model that unites public and private funds. The major contributions are from Long Beach Community Investment Company, the City of Long Beach, and various government programs.
Private financing includes tax credit equity from Bank of America, and grants by the Josephine S. Gumbiner Foundation and the Wells Fargo Foundation.
The project is slated for completion in winter 2027. Studio One Eleven designed the development, with Howard CDM serving as a consultant.
The information on leasing and the application process is expected to be announced closer to the project’s completion date.
