This week, the Los Angeles City Planning Commission is scheduled to consider an appeal of a proposed multifamily residential development near the Van Nuys Civic Center.

The project, which comes from applicant Erwin One, LLC of Culver City, calls for razing a one-story commercial building at 14552-14558 Erwin Street to make way for the construction of a four-story building featuring 27 residential units - including three apartments for very-low-income households - with parking for 30 vehicles on one basement level.

Architectural plans for the low-rise structure indicate a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, as well as amenities such as a rooftop deck and a first-floor gym.

The appeal, which was filed by the owner of an adjacent business, contends that the project is inappropriate for the site given its commercial zoning, and the activities the adjoining gas business will prove disruptive to residents.  A staff response counters that residential uses are allowed by-right in commercial zones, and notes that the appellant's business will already be subject to noise restrictions due to a pending development at 14528-14544 Erwin Street.  The report recommends that the appeal should be denied, and that the project approvals should be upheld.

The City Planning Commission recently signed off on plans for another multifamily residential project nearby at the intersection of Van Nuys Boulevard and Kittridge Street.