Seaport Marina...new vision again?

After Lennar pulled it's plans from the table, I was really hoping someone wouldn't let the idea go that that 11 acre corner was in need of redevlopment. With the amount of money invested in planning, it was likely that something would be done, we just weren't sure wat form it would take.




Now, if you drive by the SeaPort Marina Hotel (2nd and PCH) you have probably noticed that they are asking you to "share the vision" and visit a new website http://www.secondandpch.com/ . The new website, although a little slow to get around, provides some good information on what is to come.

So what are some of their ideas? It is no surprise that they are looking at a mix-used project. Integrating retail stores, a hotel, and luxury residences is a popular (and profitable) way to develop where dirt is expensive. Some highlights of this upcoming project include:

• 12 Story Hotel - Looks to be known as "Black Pearl". It could be on the North side or South side of the site. My vote would be for the south side where street noise would be greater, so residential units could enjoy the more quiet spaces to the north.


• Great Spaces - This would be public space where anyone cold gather (see image in this post). This was a sticking point with the previous plan Lennar was in as they did not provide enough room for the community. The initial sketches look good and allow a flow from PCH to the Bay.
• Residential - I think they will continue to refine their offering here. They currently describe a mix of units branded with the hotel, conventional flats, townhomes and even lofts. Sounds cool, but a focus will be needed to really make sales strong. Especially close to the water there will be a need for maximizing views while providing functional layouts. Not sure down by the bay would be the "loft" crowd, as the Lofts have dominated in Downtown Long Beach.

So, the "vision" is looking good. It has a long way to go, and we will be happy to update you as we hear about the progress. Visit their website as well and we would love to hear your thoughts on the plans.

You can always search for Long Beach real estate near the Seaport Marina using our Free Long Beach MLS