A parking lot across the street from the Plaza Mexico shopping center could be redevelopment with a mixed-use apartment complex, according to an environmental report now being processed by the City of Lynwood.

The project, slated for a 3.6-acre site at 3000 E. Imperial Highway, is being dubbed the Plaza Mexico Residences.  Plans from development entity 3000 E. Imperial Highway, LLC call for the construction of a six-story building which would feature 348 rental apartments - including studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units - atop 26,417 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurant space and podium parking for 777 vehicles.

Plans call for approximately 70,000 square feet of open space amenities, including seven courtyards designed with landscapes that reflect different regions of Mexico.  Other common spaces will include a swimming pool, a fitness center, and multi-purpose rooms.

Construction of the Plaza Mexico Residences is anticipated to take place over approximately 48 months, with construction starting as soon as this year.

As currently proposed the project will require several amendments to the Lynwood Transit Area Strategic Plan, which governs land use for the Plaza Mexico shopping center and other properties surrounding the Green Line's Long Beach Boulevard Station.   Requested amendments include an increase in both the number of allowable residential units and the amount of allowable non-residential square footage in the specific plan area.

Plaza Mexico, easily visible to passersby on the 105 Freeway, is known for its recreations of Mexican landmarks.