Project Consulting Associates LLC, a Long Beach-based firm specializing in construction project management, is nearing completion on the renovation of a mixed-use building along Santa Monica’s famed Third Street Promenade.

The property, known as The Gallery, was purchased by owner Linwood Ventures in 2014. At the time, the five-story building was highlighted by a run-down food court whose most notable occupant was a McDonald's.


According to Dave Hellman, a Principal with Project Consulting Associates, the property has since been reimagined from head-to-toe. The lower levels of the building have been repurposed as a food hall, with an eclectic roster of tenants that ranges from more traditional grab-and-go offerings to higher-end fare including one establishment featuring a 21-course tasting menu. Another notable tenant is Everytable, an innovative concept which provides quality food in low-income neighborhoods.

The project’s upper floors have been refurbished as modern creative offices, designed with the open floor plans and high ceilings that have become the industry standard.

Hellman, who has seen the development through the permitting and construction process, notes that the project was complicated by Santa Monica's rigid and often time-consuming approvals process. The building's first tenant - a language school - moved into its space in July 2015. Working around the school’s operations posed a challenge for PCA, as it is difficult to conduct after-hours construction in the City of Santa Monica. To avoid delays, PCA implemented creative phasing and scheduling.

"TIME AND MONEY IS WHAT KEEPS THE PROJECT GOING, AND IT’S OUR JOB TO PROTECT THAT." -DAVE HELLMAN, PROJECT CONSULTING ASSOCIATES LLC

This experience left PCA well-versed in Santa Monica's development process, which Hellman described as having down to a science. Though Santa Monica frequently takes as long as five months to issue building permits, PCA has been successful in getting city sign-offs within seven to eight weeks.

 


About Project Consulting Associates LLC

In a phone interview, Dave Hellman provided details on PCA’s role in the projects they manage. “It’s good to have someone on your team that understands the financial impact of a delayed project,” Hellman said. “Time and money is what keeps the project going, and it’s our job to protect that. We advocate for the owner and remain agnostic in the process to ensure our client is protected throughout the entire project. Property owners turn to us because we are construction experts that ensure the process runs smoothly, on time and within budget. It’s our responsibility ensure that the owner’s investment is protected while managing each phase of the project so they can focus on what they do best.”

Based in Long Beach, PCA’s team boasts over 30 years of expertise in all elements of the development process. Its portfolio includes a diverse array of projects, including office renovations, hospitality, retail and restaurant spaces, and even sophisticated undertakings such as theme parks and airline hubs. Its service offerings include all phases in the construction lifecycle, including: due diligence, design management and oversight, plan check submittal/permit expediting, bidding, procurement, contract negotiation, budget and schedule management, construction oversight and close out.

To learn more about Project Consulting Associates LLC, please visit http://pcassociatesllc.com.