At its meeting scheduled for July 20, the Long Beach Planning Commission is set to review yet another large mixed-use project proposed near the city's southeast border along Pacific Coast Highway.

Carmel Partners, the San Francisco-based developer behind the project at 6615 E. Pacific Coast Highway, is seeking approvals to raze one of two existing office buildings, while retaining an adjoining structure at 6695 PCH. After demolition, plans call for the new construction of a six-story complex featuring 390 apartments, 5,351 square feet of ground-floor commercial space, and parking for 576 vehicles.

View looking northeast from PCHAO

The proposed project, in accordance with state law, is proposed with density bonus incentives which would permit a larger development than otherwise allowed by zoning rules. In exchange, Carmel Partners would be required to set aside 17 of the one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments as affordable housing at the very low-income level.

AO is designing the proposed apartment complex, which is named Marketplace, according to a plan set. Urban Arena is serving as the project's landscape architect.

"Taking advantage of the mild year-round southern California weather, the proposed development provides 4 open courtyards and an expansive roof deck with pool for the residents," reads a design narrative. "Each courtyard is programmed with various amenities and experiences thus effectively increasing the livability of each residence."

Corner retail at PCH and StudebakerAO

Plans also call for interior amenities such as a fitness center and co-working space.

Marketplace, which the staff report recommends for approval, is the third in a series of large mixed-use projects from  in the works for the surrounding stretch of Pacific Coast Highway. Across the street, Onni Group has plans for an even larger development which would feature 600 apartments on its upper floors. To the east, Holland Partner Group is planning 290 apartments on a site which abuts the San Gabriel River.

Carmel Partners, based out of San Francisco, is also behind plans for new high-rise buildings in the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles and just outside of Beverly Hills city limits on La Cienega Boulevard. The company's upcoming slate of mixed-use and multifamily residential developments also includes projects in East Hollywood and Sawtelle.

6616 E Pacific Coast HighwayGoogle Maps

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