Amidst the rumble of passing Expo Line trains, construction pushes ahead for the highly anticipated development known as Access Culver City.

The mixed-use complex from Greystar Real Estate Partners broke ground just over one year ago at the intersection of Washington and National Boulevards, directly across the street from Metro's Culver City Station.  When completed in July, the five-story structure will offer 115 apartment units above 30,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space and a subterranean parking garage.  Proposed amenities include a swimming pool and an on-site recreation center.

The building, designed by architecture firm Togawa Smith Martin, will feature a stucco exterior accented by metal siding and steel canopies.  Access, which is seeking LEED Silver certification, will also feature lush landscaping, a private courtyard and a street-fronting plaza.

Greystar's project is one of several transit oriented developments fostered by the return of rail service to Los Angeles' wealthy Westside.  In Culver City, two additional projects are also taking shape within walking distance of the elevated train station.  South across Washington Boulevard, construction is already underway on an office and retail complex known as the Platform.  Further north, the station's sprawling park-and-ride lot is slated for a massive development from Lowe Enterprises which would consist of offices, apartments, hotel rooms, stores, restaurants and park space.