Slauson and Wall Project Update: Increased Park Space, Revised Housing Plans

Table of Contents

• 1. Slauson and Wall Project Update: Increased Park Space, Revised Housing Plans
• 2. Project Evolution: From Workforce Apartments to Family Housing and Open Space
• 3. Key Changes in the Revised Plan
• 4. Next Steps and City Council Involvement
• 5. Historical Context and Location
• 6. Community Impact and Future Outlook
• 7. How does the city plan to ensure the Slauson and Wall development effectively serves the needs of families, given the notable shift in focus towards family-oriented housing and park space?
• 8. Archyde Interview: Revisiting the Slauson and Wall Development Plan
• 9. Understanding the Shift in Focus: Family Housing and Open Space
• 10. Impact of Increased Park Space and Reduced parking
• 11. Addressing Concerns about Parking and Transportation
• 12. The Role of Bakewell and the Michaels Organization
• 13. A Thought-Provoking Question: Community Engagement and Development

March 5, 2025

The enterprising advancement project at Slauson Avenue and Wall Street in Florence, Los Angeles, is undergoing revisions. Initially proposed in 2021,the updated plans prioritize a larger public park while adjusting the number of planned housing units.

Project Evolution: From Workforce Apartments to Family Housing and Open Space

The original proposal for 5867 S. Los Angeles Street, spearheaded by a joint venture including the Bakewell Company and the Michaels Organization, envisioned a mixed-use development with:

• 280 “workforce” apartments
• 245 affordable units for families and seniors (30-80% AMI)
• A 60,000-square-foot central park
• A Superior Foods supermarket
• Business incubator spaces
• Community centers
• Shops and restaurants
• 565 parking spaces

Though, the revised project reflects a shift in priorities, emphasizing communal green space and family-oriented affordable housing. The changes highlight the city’s evolving needs and commitment to providing accessible recreational areas.

Key Changes in the Revised Plan

According to the staff report, the updated project now features:

• 300 units of family affordable housing
• 10,000 square feet of multi-tenant commercial space
• 10,000 square feet of non-profit offices
• An approximately four-acre park
• 20,000 square feet of other open space
• 250 parking spaces

This significant increase in park space and focus on family housing aims to create a more vibrant and community-focused surroundings. The reduction in parking spaces also aligns with the city’s goals of promoting sustainable transportation.

Next Steps and City Council Involvement

The report recommends that the City Council authorize negotiations with Bakewell and the Michaels Organization for a new 12-month period, with the possibility of a 12-month extension.this indicates the city’s continued commitment to the project and its desire to refine the plans further to best serve the community.

Historical Context and Location

The City of Los Angeles gained control of the Slauson and Wall site in 2013 following the dissolution of the Community Redevelopment Agency. Its location across from Metro’s Rail to Rail active transportation project positions it as a key component of the area’s revitalization. The “Rail to Rail” project,nearing completion,promises to enhance connectivity and accessibility for local residents,making the slauson and Wall development even more valuable to the community.

Community Impact and Future Outlook

The Slauson and Wall project represents a significant investment in the Florence neighborhood, promising to deliver much-needed affordable housing, recreational space, and commercial opportunities. By prioritizing a larger park and family-oriented housing, the revised plan seeks to create a sustainable and thriving community hub for generations to come.

The adjustments made to the project reflects community feedback and revised city development goals. This project will bring much needed resources and promote future economic growth to the city’s local economy.

Stay tuned for further updates as the project progresses through the negotiation and development phases.Your engagement and feedback are valuable as we work towards a brighter future for Los Angeles.

How does the city plan to ensure the Slauson and Wall development effectively serves the needs of families, given the notable shift in focus towards family-oriented housing and park space?

Archyde Interview: Revisiting the Slauson and Wall Development Plan

March 5, 2025

The Slauson and Wall project in Florence, Los Angeles, has seen significant revisions since its initial proposal. To understand the changes and their impact, we spoke with City Planner Anya Sharma, who has been closely involved with the project.

Understanding the Shift in Focus: Family Housing and Open Space

Archyde: Anya, thank you for joining us. Initially, the Slauson and Wall development included a mix of “workforce” apartments and affordable housing. Now, the focus seems to be heavily on family affordable housing and increased park space. What drove this shift?

Anya Sharma: Thanks for having me. The shift reflects a deeper understanding of the community’s needs. Extensive community consultation revealed a strong desire for more family-oriented housing options and accessible green spaces. The data showed a significant need for affordable housing catering specifically to families in the Florence neighborhood. The increased park space also addresses a critical need for recreational areas, considering the limited existing options.We wanted to create a enduring and thriving community hub, not just a housing complex.

Impact of Increased Park Space and Reduced parking

Archyde: The updated plan boasts a four-acre park and 20,000 square feet of additional open space. How will this enhanced green space benefit the local community?

Anya Sharma: This park space will be a game-changer. It provides much-needed recreational opportunities, promotes physical and mental well-being, and creates a shared space for community gatherings. We envision it becoming a vibrant hub for families and individuals alike. Furthermore, the reduced parking aligns with the city’s sustainability goals, encouraging the use of public transportation, like the Rail to Rail active transportation project nearby, and promoting option modes of transportation.

Addressing Concerns about Parking and Transportation

archyde: The reduction in parking spaces might raise concerns for some residents.How does the city plan to address potential parking challenges?

Anya Sharma: That’s a valid point. We’re actively exploring various mitigation strategies,including promoting carpooling,improving access to public transportation,and implementing transportation demand management (TDM) strategies within the development. The proximity to the Rail to Rail project is key; it offers a viable alternative for residents who may not need personal vehicles. We’re also looking at designated short-term parking zones and ride-sharing programs to ease potential pressure on street parking.

The Role of Bakewell and the Michaels Organization

Archyde: Bakewell Company and the Michaels Organization remain key partners in this project. How are they adapting to these significant revisions in the development plan?

Anya Sharma: They’ve been collaborative and responsive. They understand that these changes are crucial to ensuring the project genuinely serves the community’s needs. They’re working closely with us on the revised designs,ensuring that the affordable housing is high-quality and family-friendly and that the park space is well-integrated into the overall development. Their commitment is vital to the project’s success.

A Thought-Provoking Question: Community Engagement and Development

Archyde: This project highlights the dynamic nature of urban planning and the importance of community feedback. What lessons can other cities learn from the Slauson and Wall project regarding community engagement and adapting development plans to meet evolving needs?

Anya Sharma: That’s a great question. I think the biggest lesson is that genuine, ongoing community engagement is paramount. We need to listen actively to residents, understand their priorities, and be willing to adapt our plans accordingly. This project demonstrates that adaptability and responsiveness are key to creating developments that truly benefit the communities they serve. We hope this approach inspires other cities to prioritize community voices in their planning processes. It ultimately leads to better, more sustainable, and more equitable outcomes.

Archyde: Anya, thank you for your insightful perspective on the Slauson and Wall project. We appreciate your time.

Anya Sharma: My pleasure. Thanks for having me.