LONG BEACH, CA [Nov. 18, 2025] — The Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DTLB Alliance) has strengthened its commitment to creating a more vibrant, people-centered downtown by welcoming Rodrigo Rodarte as its new Senior Manager of Placemaking and Activations. The position reflects a strategic evolution for the organization as it increases investments in community-focused events, public space activation, and beautification projects that bring energy, engagement, and pride to Downtown Long Beach.
“Rodrigo’s expertise sits exactly at the intersection of long-term placemaking and the kind of energy-boosting activations that make Downtown Long Beach thrive,” said Austin Metoyer, President & CEO of the DTLB Alliance. “We’ve seen tremendous success from programs like our Entertainment Zone pilot and the last two EZ Sip events, which have shown how creative programming can enliven our streets, support local businesses, and build community. Rodrigo’s experience will help us expand on that momentum—connecting placemaking and events in a way that transforms downtown into a more engaging, people-first destination.”
Rodarte joins the DTLB Alliance with over 12 years of experience in public space planning, programming, and community engagement. Before joining the Alliance, he led RECO, a consultancy dedicated to helping communities unlock the social and economic potential of active public spaces. He previously worked with Biederman Redevelopment Ventures, contributing to renowned placemaking projects across the country, including Salesforce Park in San Francisco—where he served as the park’s inaugural Programming Manager—Ivy Station in Culver City, Fair Park in Dallas, and Exposition Park in Los Angeles.
Rodarte’s work has taken him from Honolulu to Hong Kong, deepening his passion for integrating local culture and identity into the fabric of public life. Earlier in his career, he coordinated events for non-profit organizations and supported real estate development initiatives. He also serves as Treasurer of the Board of Trustees for Fulcrum Arts, a Pasadena-based non-profit exploring the intersection of art and science.
“I’m thrilled to join the DTLB Alliance at such an exciting time,” said Rodrigo Rodarte. “Downtown Long Beach is rich with creative energy and cultural diversity. I’m eager to collaborate with the community, business owners, and our partners to design experiences and spaces that celebrate our city’s character while fostering lasting connections among those who live, work, and thrive here.”
To introduce Rodrigo to the community and gather input on future programming, the DTLB Alliance will host two Meet & Greet and Event Feedback Sessions for downtown businesses and residents on Tuesday, Dec. 9. Two options will be available: a morning session from 8:30 to 10 AM and an evening session from 5:30 to 7 PM. Please RSVP your interest to attend here. Additional details will be sent to those who RSVP.
With Rodarte’s addition, the DTLB Alliance continues to build momentum toward a more connected, welcoming, and dynamic downtown—one where every space and every event contribute to the shared story of Long Beach.
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About: The Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DTLB Alliance) is a nonprofit, community-based organization whose mission is to cultivate, preserve and promote a healthy, safe, and prosperous Downtown. The DTLB Alliance is recognized as the voice of Downtown Long Beach by the City of Long Beach and the State of California. By balancing the interests of the residents, as well as businesses, the organization creates tangible progress by way of vested interest and solidified partnerships across local, municipal, and commercial lines. For additional information, visit www.downtownlongbeach.org and follow on Facebook @downtownlongbeach, on “X” (formerly Twitter) @dtlballiance and Instagram @dtlballiance.