At some point in the distant future, Metro's Southeast Gateway Line could shuttle passengers to Pioneer Boulevard in Artesia (and perhaps even to Cerritos). With that future in mind, Artesia officials have moved to adopt new zoning regulations to shape development around the forthcoming transit hub.

The Artesia Downtown Specific Plan, which covers a roughly 94-acre area along the Pioneer Boulevard corridor, would implement new zoning and development standards to facilitate the construction of mixed-use buildings and multifamily housing to the north and south of the train station. Included in the plan is a large parcel which directly abuts the at-grade stop, where Metro is expected to build a park-and-ride facility for the Southeast Gateway Line.

Artesia Downtown Specific Plan zones and district standardsCity of Artesia

The highest-density developments in the plan area are planned to the south of the station, with buildings of up to five stories in height and densities of up to 75 units per acre are intended to replace commercial properties on either side of South Street. Four story structures with densities of 65 units per acre are planned to the north at Pioneer's intersection with 183rd Street. The commercial core of Pioneer Boulevard - known as Little India - would also permit mixed-use buildings, but at a reduced scale of three stories and a maximum of 50 dwelling units per acre.

However, applicants could exceed some of those limits through the use of density bonus incentives and the inclusion of affordable housing. The city would also offer bonus development rights in exchange for commercial uses, hotels, live/work units, and public open space, according to a presentation to the City's Planning Commission.

Illustrative vision plan for Artesia Downtown Specific PlanCity of Artesia

An environmental impact report circulated for the specific plan identifies 53 parcels which could support future development, with an anticipated horizon year of 2045. In total, the zoning rules would permit the construction of up to 1,981 housing units and over 5,000 square feet of commercial space. That could lead to an increase in nearly 7,000 residents.

Several projects within the specific plan area may represent a sign of things to come. A mixed-use project with 83 homes is slated for a vacant site at 17610 Pioneer Boulevard, and a 168-unit development is in the works at 11746 South Street.

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