Alvarado Center Plans 114-Unit Affordable Project Near MacArthur Park Metro

• Alvarado Center LLC proposes a 114-unit housing project
• 113 units set aside as affordable, targeting high-need areas
• Located steps from the Westlake/MacArthur Park Metro station

What the project includes

A new mixed-use development is being proposed in Westlake, just one block from MacArthur Park. The plan calls for a seven-story building with 114 one-bedroom units, nearly all designated as affordable housing. The project also includes 5,200 square feet of ground-floor retail and minimal parking, signaling a shift toward transit-oriented, high-density housing.

Why this location matters

The site sits directly near one of Los Angeles’ busiest transit hubs, making it ideal for dense residential development. Proximity to the Metro reduces the need for parking and supports affordability for residents. This type of location is increasingly favored by developers looking to maximize density while aligning with city housing goals.

What this means for Westlake

Westlake is seeing rising housing costs, with home prices climbing significantly year over year. Adding nearly 100 affordable units helps address the growing gap between supply and affordability. The area is also seeing major redevelopment activity, including the nearby Centro Westlake project, which will bring hundreds of units and mixed-use space. This positions Westlake as a key growth zone for housing near transit.

What this means for Los Angeles development trends

Affordable housing is becoming a larger share of new development across Los Angeles. Developers are responding to both policy incentives and strong demand. Transit-oriented projects like this are especially important, as they combine housing with accessibility and infrastructure.

What this means for investors and landlords

Affordable housing in transit-rich locations offers stable demand and long-term occupancy. While margins differ from market-rate projects, these developments benefit from policy support and consistent need. For investors, this represents a defensive and demand-driven asset class in a high-cost market. As Los Angeles continues to push for more housing, projects like this will shape the next phase of urban development.