MHALA partners with Environ, Inc. to relocate programs, their corporate offices and revitalize Long Beach Boulevard

Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHA) is working with Environ Architecture to expand and relocate their Downtown Long Beach facilities to 1955-1965 Long Beach Boulevard. The urban revitalization project was prompted by the agreement between the City of Long Beach and MHA which provided MHA with the two multi-level buildings where they will locate their administrative offices, a primary health care clinic, a drop-in service center and a community room. Also planned is a coffee shop and restaurant featuring street side dining, bringing new life and activity to the Long Beach Boulevard corridor.

Architect and President of Environ Architecture, Alan Burks states, “This is an investment in a part of Long Beach that has been ignored for too long.” Burks goes on to say, “We enjoy working with organizations which focus on improving the community and serving the people who live there.” Coincidentally, Environ worked on the interiors of the Social Security Administration building at 2001 Long Beach Boulevard back in 2003 and is currently working with the owner of 1975 Long Beach Boulevard to renovate that building as well. “It will be a true pleasure to see these buildings come alive again and thrive in their communities.”

MHA states, “The site will focus on recovery, with on-site services for multiple needs, and resiliency, with options focused on work and well-being.  MHA’s new location will be a great asset to help them serve the most vulnerable homeless people among us pursue hope, empowerment, responsibility and meaning in their lives.  Individuals and their families will receive integrated mental and physical health care and assistance in finding housing.  In their new medical suite, MHA staff will help them learn about health conditions, understand risks and practice prevention strategies so individuals become educated and engaged partners in their recovery and well-being.

The site will include comprehensive services for homeless people with mental illness, a physical healthcare clinic operated by The Children's Clinic, the opportunity for clients to gain work experience at the on-site coffee shop/restaurant operated by Third Wave Market1, LLC and a large community room which will provide space for services and neighborhood organizations.  The coffee shop, restaurant and community room will be welcoming places for neighbors to gather."

1955 - 1965 Long Beach Blvd. Before

1955 - 1965 Long Beach Blvd. Proposed

3D Model of Street Level

3D Model of Lower Level

"Alan and the team at Environ have been extremely professional and guided us through the design of this complex property.  It's been a pleasure working with them,” said Robert Emerson, MHA's Director of Real Estate Management.

MHA serves some of the most vulnerable members of our community including adults and young adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses and veterans with histories of homelessness.  During its last fiscal year, MHA served over 2,000 different individuals in the Long Beach Community.