News Summary
Costa Mesa has unveiled a proposal for the Hive Live development, aiming to build 1,050 housing units with retail space on a 14.25-acre site. The project replaces an office park and includes pedestrian-friendly pathways, community spaces, and a commitment to affordable housing. The Costa Mesa City Council has shown support for the proposal, which targets young professionals and offers specialized building themes. A formal hearing is scheduled for June 9, with mixed community reactions regarding its impact on local infrastructure.
Costa Mesa Unveils Proposal for 1,050-Unit Hive Live Residential Development
The city of Costa Mesa has announced a groundbreaking proposal for a new residential development called Hive Live, which aims to build 1,050 housing units along with retail space. This substantial project is set to replace an existing office park and the previous practice field for the Los Angeles Chargers on a 14.25-acre site located at 3333 Susan St.
The Hive Live development plan includes the construction of three five-story buildings, which will be accompanied by 1,756 parking spaces. The complex is designed to integrate 3,692 square feet of retail space alongside approximately 7.7 acres of open areas that will promote community interaction and accessibility.
Costa Mesa planning commissioners recently reviewed the Hive Live proposal during a study session in advance of a formal hearing scheduled for June 9. The project follows initial approval from the Costa Mesa City Council in August 2023, where Legacy Partners was authorized to further develop their plans. The proposal seeks a general plan amendment and a zone change to allow for high residential uses, as well as amendments to the North Costa Mesa Specific Plan to address building regulations.
Project Features and Benefits
The Hive Live development will be organized into three separate parcels, allowing for a phased approach to the building process. As part of the project, the developers have extended an offer to Anduril, a nearby defense contractor, granting them first right of refusal for an additional office building on-site.
A distinctive feature of Hive Live will be pedestrian-friendly “paseo” areas designed to create pathways between buildings, complete with seating, artistic displays, and landscaping aimed at enhancing connectivity between residents and their surroundings.
The proposal also includes a commitment to affordable housing, with 10% of the units—amounting to 105 total—designated as affordable for low-income renters for a period of 55 years. This affordable housing commitment comes in exchange for a 20% density bonus, allowing for more units than the base zoning would typically permit.
Target Demographics and Building Themes
The Hive Live project is tailored specifically for young professionals within the age range of 25 to 45. Each of the three buildings will have unique themes to cater to different demographics.
- The Innovator: This southernmost building will comprise 315 units, featuring a parking garage and retail space that aims to appeal to social and modern lifestyles.
- The Explorer: Located north of The Innovator, this building will include 346 units designed for creative individuals and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Eco Enthusiast: As the largest of the three, this building will house 389 units and will focus on wellness and integrating natural design elements.
Context and Community Engagement
The concept of Hive Live originated five years ago during an update to the city’s housing element. The recent passage of Measure K in November has also streamlined the rezoning process in specific commercial and industrial zones, thus facilitating the project’s progress.
Community reaction to the Hive Live proposal has been mixed, with some residents expressing concerns regarding the number of affordable units and the potential impacts of increased development on local infrastructure. However, city council members have largely favored the project, citing its alignment with Costa Mesa’s housing goals and the benefits it aims to bring to the community.
As negotiations for additional community benefits and infrastructure contributions continue, agreements are anticipated to last between 20 to 30 years. The Hive Live project represents a significant step forward in addressing the housing needs of Costa Mesa while providing new amenities for the local community.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Planners Get The Buzz on Hive Live
- Wikipedia: Costa Mesa, California
- OC Register: Former Chargers Practice Facility Development
- Google Search: Costa Mesa Hive Live
- The Real Deal: Legacy Partners and Invesco Build in Costa Mesa
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Apartment
- OC Business Journal: New Uses Eyed for Chargers Hive Site
- Google News: Costa Mesa Affordable Housing
