City of LA Denies Appeals Against 41-unit Sunset Blvd. Mixed-use Project

A recent report from Urbanize revealed that plans for a mixed-use development in Hollywood are set to proceed, despite multiple appeals aiming to halt the project being denied by the city.

Project Details

The development, named Sunset/Laurel, is proposed as a seven-story structure comprising 41 units. Located at 7979 Sunset Boulevard, it is slated to replace a gas station opposite the renowned Laugh Factory comedy club. The project's design includes a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, along with approximately 4,500 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor.

Approval and Opposition

Initially approved by the City of Los Angeles in early December, the project faced opposition from seven local residents, including Laugh Factory owner Jamie Masada. The appellants raised concerns about increased traffic and parking issues, the scale of the development compared to the surrounding neighborhood, and insufficient community notification prior to approval.

Planning Department Report

Despite the appeals, a Planning Department staff report recommended denying them. The report highlighted that the project's size adhered to regulations, benefiting from a density bonus incentive granted to the developer for providing very low-income housing units. Additionally, the property's zoning exempted it from minimum parking requirements.

Developer's Response

A representative for the developer, Massachi, expressed satisfaction with the city's decision, stating that all criteria for the project had been met. Masada did not provide immediate comment on the outcome.

Other Developments Along the Sunset Strip

The news of the Sunset/Laurel project progressing coincides with other significant developments in the area. Regal Ventures, a New York City-based investment group, acquired a retail property on Sunset Boulevard for nearly $30 million. Meanwhile, former Beverly Hills Planning Commissioner Farshid Joe Shooshani submitted plans to the City of West Hollywood for a spherical studio and billboard space on the iconic street.