News Summary
The Beverly Hills Planning Commission voted 4-1 to deny the 26-story Crescent Heights project, highlighting concerns over design issues and community feedback. The project proposed 200 residences, including 22 affordable units, but faced backlash over their placement. Despite the denial, the project may be reconsidered on October 29. This decision underscores ongoing tensions regarding housing developments in Beverly Hills, as the city aims to meet state housing requirements amidst community objections.
Beverly Hills – The Beverly Hills Planning Commission voted 4-1 to deny the controversial 26-story Crescent Heights project proposed for 8844 Burton Way, citing design issues and community concerns. Only Commissioner Terri Kaplan supported the project, expressing worries over potential legal ramifications stemming from the denial.
The development plans included 200 residential units, with 22 designated as affordable housing, which is an increase from prior proposals. However, the placement of these affordable units on the lower floors near trash chutes and elevators was a significant concern raised by other commissioners. The commission emphasized that it would consider design improvements and community feedback in future discussions.
The builder’s remedy allows developers to bypass local restrictions for housing projects that include a minimum of 13% affordable housing. This legal framework is activated when a city’s housing plan fails to comply with state requirements. Beverly Hills has already given the green light to five projects under the builder’s remedy this month, with heights ranging from eight to 12 stories.
Despite the commission’s denial, the fate of the Crescent Heights project is not yet sealed. The proposal will return before the Planning Commission for a final decision on October 29, where the commission could potentially revisit and overturn their previous denial.
Recent revisions to the Crescent Heights plans saw the project’s height increase from 20 stories and 223 feet to its current height of 26 stories and over 309 feet. Alongside the residential units, the project aims to provide 318 parking spaces, 24 bicycle parking spots, and over 42,226 square feet of open space, bolstering its appeal to potential residents with amenities like private theaters, yoga studios, and clubhouses.
The Planning Commission’s recent actions reflect a broader tension within the city regarding housing development. Previously, Beverly Hills had employed various strategies to obstruct builder’s remedy developments, facing substantial pushback from the community. However, a recent court ruling favoring such a project signifies a shift in the city’s approach, intensifying existing legal disputes regarding housing obligations. The city is currently engaged in multiple lawsuits linked to builder’s remedy applications, seeking to uphold its local development standards in light of state housing laws.
Given its responsibilities, Beverly Hills is required to plan for 3,104 new housing units by 2029 as part of its mandated Housing Element. This requirement is essential as the city balances community desires with the legal framework encouraging housing development.
As the housing controversy continues, including varying opinions and reactions from commissioners and community members, developers are likely to pursue taller buildings than the traditional four-story limit due to relaxed restrictions from state legislation. The imminent decision on the Crescent Heights project will be crucial in determining the future of upscale housing in Beverly Hills.
The conversation surrounding housing in Beverly Hills highlights the complexities of local planning, community satisfaction, and adherence to state mandates. As the October 29 meeting approaches, stakeholders and residents will be attentive to the potential outcomes that may set precedence for future developments in this famed city.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Revised Development Plans Submitted for 8844 Burton Way
Beverly Hills Development Project Raises Community Concerns
Additional Resources
- Beverly Hills Courier: Burton Way Builders Remedy Project Increases to 26 Stories
- Google Search: Beverly Hills Builders Remedy
- Beverly Press: Beverly Hills Faces Four New Builders Remedy Lawsuits
- Wikipedia: Beverly Hills
- Beverly Hills Courier: Proposed Builders Remedy Project Increases Height to 36 Stories
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Beverly Hills
- Commercial Observer: Beverly Hills’ Tallest Building Builders Remedy Housing
- Google News: Beverly Hills Builders Remedy Projects
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
