AEG has submitted new plans to the Los Angeles Department of City Planning for a 49-story mixed-use tower. The proposed development, located just north of the L.A. Live complex, aims to transform a surface parking lot into a vibrant hub featuring a hotel, residential units, and extensive entertainment facilities. This marks AEG's third attempt to redevelop this specific site, indicating a strong commitment to enhancing the downtown area.
The ambitious project is planned for 917-931 W. Olympic Boulevard and 920-948 S. Georgia Street. It promises to add significant new amenities and housing options to an already bustling part of the city, further contributing to the ongoing revitalization of downtown Los Angeles.
Key Takeaways
- AEG proposes a 49-story, 631-foot-tall tower.
- The project includes a 334-room hotel and 364 residential units.
- Plans feature over 112,000 square feet of entertainment space.
- Three subterranean and three above-grade levels will provide parking for 666 vehicles.
- The development requires several city approvals, including an amendment to the L.A. Sports and Entertainment District Specific Plan.
A New Vision for Olympic Boulevard
The proposed tower will stand approximately 631 feet tall, dominating the skyline with its modern design. It will combine various uses to create a self-contained environment for residents and visitors alike. This integration of living, hospitality, and leisure spaces aligns with contemporary urban development trends.
The building's design includes a striking glass curtain on its upper levels. The podium section along Olympic Boulevard will feature an "undulating fabric of vertical fin-mounted LEDs." This dynamic visual element is expected to contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the L.A. Live area, similar to other nearby structures.
Project at a Glance
- Height: Approximately 631 feet
- Stories: 49
- Hotel Rooms: 334
- Residential Units: 364
- Entertainment Space: 112,593 square feet
- Parking Spaces: 666
Diverse Offerings for Residents and Guests
The 334-room hotel will occupy floors nine through 20, providing guests with modern accommodations and convenient access to downtown attractions. Above the hotel, the tower will house 364 residential units, offering urban living options with potential city views.
Beyond traditional living and lodging, the project emphasizes entertainment and leisure. The fifth and sixth floors are specifically designated for a wide array of entertainment uses. These could include popular activities such as miniature golf, dart games, escape rooms, and various electronic and interactive games. This focus on diverse entertainment options aims to attract a broad audience.
L.A. Live Complex
The L.A. Live complex is a major entertainment and sports district in downtown Los Angeles. It hosts a variety of venues, including the Crypto.com Arena, Microsoft Theater, and Regal Cinemas. The area also features numerous restaurants and hotels, making it a significant destination for both locals and tourists. Developments in this vicinity often aim to complement and enhance the existing offerings.
Amenities and Public Spaces
A podium-top amenity deck is a central feature of the new development. This elevated space will offer residents and guests a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, a clubroom, and a fitness area. These amenities are designed to foster a sense of community and provide convenience within the building.
Further dining options are planned at street level and within the entertainment floors. An eighth-floor nightclub is also part of the proposal, adding to the nightlife scene in the area. At street level, the tower will include a 660-square-foot entry plaza and a 1,122-square-foot pocket park, enhancing the pedestrian experience and providing green space.
"The integration of residential, hotel, and entertainment uses in one vertical development reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban living and leisure," stated a project representative familiar with the plans.
Navigating the Approval Process
The construction of this substantial project requires several key approvals from the City of Los Angeles. Conditional use permits are necessary for both the hotel operation and the sale of alcohol within the premises. These permits ensure that the development adheres to local regulations concerning hospitality and entertainment.
Additionally, the project necessitates an amendment to the Los Angeles Sports and Entertainment District Specific Plan. This plan governs the L.A. Live campus and its surrounding blocks, setting specific guidelines for development in this crucial urban zone. Amending it indicates the project's significant scale and potential impact on the district's overall vision.
Previous Attempts at Redevelopment
AEG has a history of pursuing development on sites north of Olympic Boulevard, near the L.A. Live campus. Past proposals included plans for a multi-tower complex across Georgia Street and a slender high-rise on the site of a downtown car wash. The company previously partnered with Williams & Dame for a Renaissance Hotel on the 917 Olympic site.
In 2016, AEG also sought to build a 38-story expansion of the J.W. Marriott on the property, but this plan was withdrawn within two years. The current application represents a renewed effort to develop this prime location, underscoring the strategic importance of the site for AEG's broader development goals in downtown Los Angeles.
Downtown Development Boom
This project comes shortly after the official start of work on a $2.6-billion expansion of the Los Angeles Convention Center. Such large-scale developments signal a continued investment and confidence in the growth and future of downtown Los Angeles as a major economic and cultural hub.
Future Impact on Downtown Los Angeles
If approved, the new 49-story tower will significantly alter the landscape of downtown Los Angeles. It will bring hundreds of new residents and hotel guests to the area, increasing foot traffic and supporting local businesses. The extensive entertainment options are expected to draw visitors from across the city and beyond.
The project's design and mixed-use nature align with modern urban planning principles, creating a dense, walkable environment. This development could serve as a model for future projects in the area, further solidifying downtown Los Angeles as a dynamic and desirable place to live, work, and visit.
The proposed tower represents a considerable investment in the city's future. Its success will depend on navigating the complex approval process and delivering on its promise of a vibrant, integrated urban experience.