City of Long Beach Launches Third Cohort of the Urban Planning and Design Internship Program

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PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach Department of Economic Development & Opportunity (EDO) is now accepting applications for the third cohort of its Long Beach Urban Planning and Design Internship Program (Program), a paid initiative designed to provide college students with real-world experience in urban planning, design, architecture and civic engagement. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply online through Monday, Oct. 19, 2026.

"Great cities are shaped by people who bring new ideas, fresh perspectives and a vision for what is possible. This innovative Program gives young people an opportunity to see themselves as part of that process, gaining valuable insight into urban planning and design while exploring how the places we live, work, and gather can better serve our communities," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "By welcoming more voices into these conversations today, we are helping build a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable Long Beach for tomorrow."

Led by EDO's Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network (LBWIN) Youth Career Services Center, and strengthened through its partnerships with the Long Beach Community Design Center and Civic Confidence LLC, the Program delivers an immersive eightmonth experience designed to cultivate the next generation of civic and community leaders. LBWIN serves as the driving force behind the Program's handson projects, interactive workshops and mentorship opportunities with professionals across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Interns will be placed at worksites such as the City's Community Development Department, local nonprofits and private firms. Participants will be compensated $22 per hour for a maximum of 500 hours.

The Program is open to students ages 18 to 30 who are currently enrolled in a community college or university program in urban planning, architecture or related fields. Priority will be given to Long Beach residents and students who reside in low-income or underserved communities. Additional eligibility details are available on the Program webpage. To support prospective applicants, EDO will host a virtual information session on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, from 4 to 5 p.m.

"Long Beach is investing in the next generation of talent by creating meaningful opportunities for young people to learn, explore and contribute to the future of our city," said EDO Director Bo Martinez. "Building on the success of our first two cohorts, this Program will offer youth firsthand experience in urban planning and design. We're excited to continue creating pathways that connect young people to careers where they can make a lasting impact."

This is the third consecutive year that the City has offered the Program. Cohorts one and two together have supported 20 emerging professionals whose work contributed to major City planning efforts. Several graduates have transitioned into full-time roles across planning, design, civic engagement and public service, reflecting the Program's strong workforce development outcomes.

The Program aligns with the City's broader youth empowerment strategies, fostering positive youth development and expanding career pathways through communitycentered learning.

For additional information about the Program and other youth and adult employment services, the public may contact Reza Perl, Youth Programs Specialist, at 562.570.4577 or [email protected]. To learn more about youth employment services, interested individuals may visit longbeach.gov/youthservices.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Long Beach Department of Economic Development & Opportunity, visit longbeach.gov/edo, follow on Facebook, X and Instagram. Stay up to date on business news by signing up for the City's Business Brief.

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