City of Brea Civic Center

The building complex is connected by a bridge to a regional shopping center and hotel. The Brea Civic & Cultural Center is an example of mixed-use "New Town" planning. After completion of the Civic & Cultural Center, the commercial center of the city shifted to surround the new Civic Center, which itself was financed and planned as part of the City's overall ambitious redevelopment project. 

The building was novel in that it combined--in one building--the traditional city government function with: a county library, performing arts stage and theater, art exhibit hall and gallery, conference center, lease space, agency and department offices, congressional offices, and TV station studio and offices. The project was financed through municipal redevelopment bonds and a developer contribution toward civic improvements in exchange for the right to develop the adjacent shopping center and hotel. 

The complete program of the Civic Center includes the following city offices, departments, and spaces: Administrative Services, City Clerk's Office, City Manager's Office, Community Development, Building & Safety Division, Planning Department, Community Services, Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Safety.