Long Beach has spent $156,200 so far on a new fence being constructed around the historic Jergins Tunnel in Downtown Long Beach.

The project comes only months after another major fencing project at the Billie Jean King Main Library drew attention over its cost and its connection to ongoing issues surrounding homelessness and the use of public spaces.

$156,200 Spent So Far at Jergins Tunnel

The new fencing is being installed around the Jergins Tunnel site beneath Ocean Boulevard, a historic pedestrian tunnel that once connected Downtown Long Beach to the beach.

So far, the City has spent $156,200 on the fencing project. Because work is still underway, that figure should not be considered the final cost.

The new barrier is intended to further secure an area that has dealt with unauthorized access and people using the closed tunnel area for shelter.

Another Major Fence Project in Downtown Long Beach

The Jergins Tunnel project follows the installation of extensive fencing around the Children’s Terrace at the Billie Jean King Main Library.

The City has publicly said that fencing at the library was designed to create a more secure space, reduce disruptions and allow the outdoor area to be used for community and family programming.

The library project ultimately became controversial as its cost climbed above $800,000 and residents questioned how such a fencing project could become so expensive.

Fences Continue to Draw Attention

The two projects are different, but their proximity and timing have put renewed attention on how Long Beach is securing public spaces, particularly locations where homelessness has been an ongoing concern.

At the Jergins Tunnel, the City is once again turning to a physical barrier to restrict access to an area that has repeatedly been entered despite being closed to the public.

And at $156,200 spent so far, the latest Downtown Long Beach fence is already another six-figure City project.