Solis Leads Revitalization of Chinatown Parking Lot into Mix-Use Affordable Housing Community

Los Angeles, CA (September 24, 2024)– Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a board letter from the Department of Economic Opportunity recommending the negotiation and execution of an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) by and among Los Angeles County and Linc Housing Corporation for the development of a parking lot (Lot 45) in Chinatown into a mixed-use affordable housing community – the New High Village. Supervisor Solis has worked to realize this transformation for over three years after hosting a series of listening sessions with local residents and stakeholders on critical community needs in Chinatown such as affordable housing for low-income and high-need populations, as well as community-oriented commercial uses

“Moving the Lot 45 project forward is a critical step in addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in Chinatown. As gentrification continues to reshape our neighborhoods, we must prioritize the preservation of cultural heritage and ensure that long-term residents are not displaced,” said Supervisor Solis. “This transformation of a Los Angeles County parking lot into a vibrant community for low-income families and older adults will provide housing, stability, and a foundation for cultural resilience. We have a responsibility to create spaces that honor our rich history while offering support and security to those who have called Chinatown home for generations.”

Linc Housing was selected through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process, and as part of its proposal, the developer envisions a mixed-use development that respects and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Chinatown by providing deeply affordable, service-enriched homes for low-income families and older adults. The developer has proposed that half of the residential units be set aside for households earning at or less than 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI), while the other half be set aside for households earning at or less than 45% of AMI. The 359,603 sq. ft. of potential development space is proposed to include 144 units for families; 156 units for older adults; retail space; community facilities; open space; and adequate parking for vehicles and bicycles.

During the ENA process, the developer will be responsible for deploying a culturally sensitive community outreach plan, integrating themselves within the surrounding community, and preparing a workforce development strategy to cultivate economic opportunities for local residents.

“This is a major milestone for the County and the Chinatown community,” said Kelly LoBianco, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), lead agency on the public-private partnership. “DEO is committed to robust community and stakeholder engagement with our new developer team as we realize the vision for affordable housing and community space. We are proud to leverage County assets like Lot 45 for inspiring economic revitalization and community benefit that we see in this New High Village development.”

“Linc Housing is excited to partner with the county to develop a mixed-use community in New Chinatown. Together, we will create a transformative development that includes 300 units of affordable housing, ample open space, and community-serving retail that meets local needs and promotes inclusivity,” said Ben Winter, Senior Vice President at Linc Housing.

“We thank Supervisor Solis for working closely with the community and recognizing the need for truly affordable housing, including retail and other community uses,” said Jason Lee of Chinatown Community Coalition L.A. “There has been far too much displacement in Chinatown throughout the years – whether it’s small businesses or long-term residents. However, we strongly believe the New High Village development can be a space where our community members can thrive in.”

This project is part of the Restorative Justice Village Master Plan, a guide Supervisor Solis spearheaded on the development of County-owned land and other properties in response to the planned closure of Men’s Central Jail – and in collaboration with Homeboy Industries and the California Endowment.

The 1.7-acre property, located at 725 N. Spring Street, is within 1,000 feet of the Metro Gold Line Chinatown light rail station and the Hilda L. Solis Care First Village, which provides 232 units for homeless individuals.