Baldwin Village breaks ground on Costco store with 800 apartments

On Wednesday, groundbreaking took place for a new mixed-use development in Baldwin Village, Los Angeles, which will feature a Costco store and 800 apartment units. This project, developed by Thrive Living, is notable for being the first of its kind in the U.S. to include Costco as an anchor tenant. The development will consist of 184 units designated for low-income households, with the remaining units offered as affordable and workforce housing, all eligible for Section 8 vouchers. The initiative aims to provide essential resources to the community, including fresh produce, optical services, and a pharmacy, while also creating thousands of jobs. Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the potential generational impact of the project, highlighting the importance of new healthcare access and retail options for local residents. The development is also the first housing community in Los Angeles to proceed under state law AB 2011, which streamlines approvals for projects that include low-income housing. Despite the anticipated benefits, some community members have raised concerns regarding potential traffic issues and the risk of gentrification. Local leaders, including Gina Fields, have worked to ensure that the project remains affordable for current residents, addressing fears of displacement. The collaboration between Thrive Living and Costco has been crucial in overcoming these challenges. While a specific timeline for completion has not been established, construction is expected to take approximately two and a half years once it begins. This project represents a significant step towards addressing housing needs in Los Angeles while also enhancing local economic opportunities.