In Koreatown, the former headquarters of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health has been gutted, as work continues for a $210-million renovation of the mid-century building.

The 12-story tower, located at 550 S. Vermont Avenue, is undergoing both a structural and cosmetic upgrade that will add more than 88,000 square feet of space to the existing 155,000-square-foot structure. Additionally, plans call for the construction of 2,000 square feet of commercial space at street level.

View looking northwest from 6th StreetLos Angeles County

Gensler is designing the makeover, which will introduce a new glass exterior that matches the Department of Mental Health's new headquarters - a 21-story tower which stands directly north on Vermont.

Trammell Crow Company is leading the development of the project, while Snyder Langston is serving as general contractor.

View looking west from 6th StreetUrbanize LA

According to a June 2024 report to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, potential occupants for the department's former headquarters could include the County's Human resources Division, the Executive office of the Board of Supervisors, the Department of Public Social Services, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Department of Public Health.

The project is considered the final component of the Vermont Corridor redevelopment, which included the construction of the neighboring office tower and an affordable housing complex across the street.

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