The proposal to redevelop the Rose Hill Courts public housing complex in Montecito Heights has taken an important step forward, with the initiation of the project's environmental review period.

As currently built, Rose Hill Courts consists of 100 low-income apartments in 15 modest one- and two-story buildings at 4446 Florizel Street.  Related Cos., in partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, intends to nearly double the number of residential units on the 5.25-acre site over two phases of construction.

The first phase of construction, expected to occur between 2020 and 2022, would involve the construction of two four-story apartment buildings creating 94 apartments in addition to dedicated parking, a leasing office, and various community and outdoor amenities.  Residents of existing buildings slated for demolition would be required to temporarily relocate during the course of construction, either to a vacant unit within Rose Hill Courts or possibly to a nearby apartment.  Current residents that choose not to return would be provided with Section 8 Vouchers and relocation assistance for permanent replace

For the second phase of construction, which is scheduled to occur between 2022 and 2025, all residents of the remaining original buildings would be relocated into the permanent structures finished in phase one.  Afterward, the existing structures would be cleared for the development of a series of two-story buildings featuring 97 townhomes and flats.

In total, the proposed development would create 191 affordable housing units - an increase of 91 from existing conditions - as well as on-site amenities such as a fitness center, a laundry facility, supportive services, and a community center that incorporates the history of Rose Hill Courts and the surrounding neighborhood

Both phases of construction are being designed by Withee Malcolm Architects, in the California Contemporary and California Contemporary Farm House styles.