JZA Architecture pitches 95-unit apartment building to replace rent-controlled cottages in Reseda
JZA Architecture has submitted a pre-application for a six-story, 95-unit apartment building to replace four rent-controlled cottages in Reseda, using the controversial ED1 program in the San Fernando Valley.
Los Angeles-based JZA Architecture has submitted a pre-application filing to the Los Angeles City Planning department on behalf of developer Efi Meirson for a new housing project in Reseda, utilizing the ED1 program. The project would involve the demolition of four rent-controlled cottages to make way for a six-story, 95-unit apartment building.
The ED1 program has been a controversial topic in the San Fernando Valley, with critics arguing that it incentivizes developers to demolish existing rent-controlled units in order to build more expensive housing. However, JZA Architecture and Meirson have defended their use of the program, stating that it is necessary to meet the growing demand for housing in the area.
"The ED1 program allows us to build much-needed housing in the San Fernando Valley, which has been facing a housing crisis for years," said Meirson in a statement to The Real Deal. "We understand that this project may cause some disruption for the current tenants, but we are committed to working with them and providing fair compensation as they transition to new housing."
While the project has been met with some resistance from community members and housing advocates, JZA Architecture has stated that they are open to altering the design of the project to address any concerns. However, Meirson declined to comment further until the current tenants have vacated the cottages, which is expected to happen early next year.
It remains to be seen if the developer will face any pushback from the city or tenants' rights groups, but for now, the project is moving forward through the pre-application process