Introduction to Beverly Hills Builder’s Remedy High-Rises
Beverly Hills, known for its luxurious lifestyle and high-end properties, is witnessing a significant transformation in its landscape. Two builder’s remedy projects, initially met with criticism from residents, are now increasing in size. The developments at 125-129 South Linden Drive and 8844 Burton Way are adding several stories to their project plans, as reported by the Beverly Press.
Project Updates: Linden Drive Development
The Linden project, developed by Leo Pustilnikov, has updated its plans to nearly double in size. The tower will grow from 19 to 36 stories, with an increase in height from approximately 200 feet to 400 feet. This expansion includes an additional 185 units, with 28 set aside for affordable housing, bringing the total to 350 units. Of these, 61 will be reserved for low-income residents. An 80-room luxury hotel is also planned for the property. Pustilnikov described the project as "a bold vision for the future of Beverly Hills." However, the city has not yet received an application for the revised proposal, according to Michael Forbes, Beverly Hills’ director of community development.
Reaction to the Linden Drive Expansion
The size increase of the Linden Drive tower has drawn criticism, particularly from the Southwest Beverly Hills Homeowners Association. Association president Ken Goldman expressed disappointment with Pustilnikov’s new plans, stating, "In my opinion, the greedy developer just got greedier. If he really wants to help the housing situation, then 100 percent of his project should be available for affordable housing."
Project Updates: Burton Way Development
Crescent Heights’ planned builder’s remedy project at 8844 Burton Way, currently an empty lot, has also seen an increase in size. The Burton Way tower will grow from 20 to 26 stories, with a height increase from approximately 223 feet to 309 feet. The project’s total area will expand from 480,686 square feet to 492,029 square feet, including 318 parking spaces, up from the previously proposed 277. However, the number of housing units will remain at 200. The updated project still includes affordable housing units, though the number has been reduced due to changes in California housing laws.
Affordable Housing and Community Reaction
The revised Burton Way project includes 14 extremely-low-income units and eight moderate-income units, down from the original 40 lower-income units. Extremely-low-income in Los Angeles County is defined as a maximum annual wage of $31,850 for one person, while moderate-income is a maximum of $89,550. Local resident Renée Strauss emphasized the need for thoughtful and balanced development, stating, "As residents, we are not opposed to thoughtful, balanced development. We care deeply about responsible growth that honors the unique character of Beverly Hills."
Housing Element Requirements
Under its Housing Element, the city of Beverly Hills must plan to build 3,104 new housing units by 2029. This requirement underscores the need for developments like the Linden and Burton Way projects, despite the controversy surrounding their size and affordable housing components.
Conclusion
The expansion of the Linden and Burton Way projects in Beverly Hills reflects the city’s efforts to meet its housing requirements while facing criticism from residents. The balance between providing affordable housing and preserving the city’s character remains a challenge. As these projects move forward, it will be crucial for developers and city officials to engage with the community, ensuring that growth is both responsible and respectful of Beverly Hills’ unique identity.
FAQs
- What are builder’s remedy projects? Builder’s remedy projects are developments that can bypass certain local zoning regulations if they include a significant portion of affordable housing, aiming to address housing shortages.
- How many new housing units must Beverly Hills build by 2029? Beverly Hills is required to plan for 3,104 new housing units by 2029 under its Housing Element.
- What is considered extremely-low-income in Los Angeles County? Extremely-low-income in Los Angeles County is defined as a maximum annual wage of $31,850 for one person.
- How has the community reacted to the project expansions? The community has expressed concerns and criticisms, particularly regarding the size of the projects and the proportion of affordable housing units.
Read more
Pustilnikov beats Beverly Hills on builders remedy
Developers sue Beverly Hills after builder’s remedy applications denied
Crescent Heights cites builder’s remedy for Beverly Hills highrise
