This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
DTLA: Boom in luxury apartments excites, unsettles
The future Circa mixed-use complex will feature nearly 650 luxury units.
(
The Hoyt Organization
)
Protestors shout over Mayor Garcetti's speech at a groundbreaking event for Circa.
(
Josie Huang/KPCC
)
Listen
0:56
DTLA: Boom in luxury apartments excites, unsettles
Tractors lumber across a massive excavated plot in downtown Los Angeles. It's the future home of the Circa complex, and part of the area's boom in luxury apartments.
When completed in 2017, two circular towers will loom over South Park, featuring retail space and nearly 650 apartments. Rents will range from $2,800 for a 700-sq. ft. one-bedroom apartment to $20,0000 a month for the penthouse, said developer Scott Dobbins.
"And that's just predicting today," Dobbins said. "Who knows where we'll be two years from now."
Mayor Garcetti was among the dignitaries at a groundbreaking event Wednesday, praising the developers for bringing housing and jobs to L.A. The half-billion dollar Circa project is the latest in a batch of high-end mixed-use developments to hit downtown, including Metropolis and Oceanwide Plaza.
But some residents are outraged by the incoming condominiums and apartments. About 20 protestors with the Los Angeles Community Action Network tried to drown out the mayor during his speech before Circa supporters.
Protestor General Dogon said new luxury apartments will further gentrify downtown.
"What comes with a condo? You got Starbucks, these $25 German hamburger stores," Dogon said. "People who’ve been living downtown like myself for over 50 years can’t afford to live here no more."
Sponsored message
Garcetti has said increasing affordable housing is a top priority. But after his speech, he said developments such as Circa are also critical.
“We need to see housing at the higher ends too because we have a shortage at all levels," Garcetti said.
Circa developers point out they’ve contributed to affordable housing. As part of a deal with the city, the developer gave $8 million to go toward building a $78 million YWCA residential facility for at-risk youth.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
