It’s located in the heart of downtown Long Beach — yet, few nearby know it exists. Nightclubs, bars, a movie-theater, cigar shop, and more of the same surround it.

Rep. Laura Richardson

Still, it keeps its privacy; through the doors of a large beige brick building adorned with tinted windows, past a security guard, around a corner and up an elevator to the top floor — the sixth.

That’s where Congresswoman Laura Richardson represents one of the nation’s most diverse districts, the 37th Congressional District, from her office at 100 West Broadway in Long Beach.

The office is inconspicuous, without signs or many apparent walk-ins. Outside the office, Richardson is more visible than most, insists 37th District Manager Eric Boyd.

“All the Los Angeles directors see their congressperson a lot less than I do,” said Boyd. “All of them.”

Most Thursdays through Sundays, Richardson is in her district, Boyd said.

High unemployment rates keep her close to home, as well as the fact that she is only four years removed from the Long Beach City Council.

“She feels like she needs to be here,” Boyd said.

On this Monday, a stack of about 500 faxes await the staff, compiled by an intern. They’ve all come in within the last week, a majority dealing with immigration.

Despite the inconspicuous office, constituents still find Richardson through mail, fax and e-mail. And a spacious, comfortable lobby does await those who find the office — its address readily available on the congresswoman’s website.

Yet, of the 13 business managers, owners and workers surveyed close to the office, only one knew that the congresswoman’s office was located either within the same building structure or just across the street.

Here are some of the responses:

Subway manager Marsha George: “I go in that building every day, but I didn’t know she was in there. This one right here?”

Jon Paul Rullo, owner of Joe R’s Churchill’s Cigars: “I’ve heard of her, but I don’t keep up much with it.”

Kristopher Larson, vice president of Downtown Long Beach Associates: “When there’s a protest outside, it makes one wonder why they’re protesting on this particular block.”

David Levy, general manager of Gaucho Grill: “Actually, I’m glad she’s IN the district. I’m surprised, absolutely. That’s good.”

Tom Nettifee, owner of Red Violin Catering: “I didn’t much care for her or where she was. If I communicate with the congressperson, I choose to mail or e-mail. I don’t care where the office is.”

Cindy Lopshire, bartender at George's Greek Café, when asked if she wishes there were a sign that identifies Congressman Laura Richardson’s office: “The better question is, does SHE want that?”