| The Mediterranean-style development consists of a three-story, on-grade, 20-unit apartment building with 10 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units. Nineteen of the units provide affordable permanent supportive housing for families transitioning out of homelessness; the 20th two-bedroom unit is for the manager. The building includes laundry, rental office and recreation rooms. Twenty-one parking spaces are provided in an on-grade enclosed podium structure.
The sponsors, National CORE and Union Station Foundation, had previously explored several alternatives for this site, including a larger 24-unit development that would have compelled state-mandated Density Bonus Incentives and concessions. Instead, the proposal sought to minimize the building mass while keeping the project financially feasible at 20 units. This is accomplished via a variance to reduce the required number of parking stalls to appropriate levels for these residents and avoid subterranean parking.
The building is oriented around a central recreational courtyard. Amenities include a community room with kitchen and direct access to the protected and accessible garden; an office for supportive services; laundry room; and trash/recycling rooms on each floor, and easy access to an on-grade parking structure.
Taking full advantage of the mild Southern California climate, private patios and 30 SF balconies are provided for each unit. Planter gardens around the perimeter provide a serene yet secure environment.
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