This dusty sliver of land has been touched by a fair bit of drama in recent years. Now it appears that a mixed-use development is on the way. Lets take a look at the details: 330 N Union Avenue NEW CONSTRUCTION OF A 69-UNIT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT, INCLUDING 500 SF. OF GROUND-FLOOR COMMERCIAL/RETAIL SPACE WITH A MINIMUM OF 98 ON-SITE PARKING SPACES
Back in 2011, Realtor Jovelle Schaffer put together a detailed chronology of the parcel’s history on her blog at Echo Park Cool. 330 N Union has seen multiple changes in ownership since 2000. One potential developer actually died in a plane crash. Eventually, the land was purchased by Advanced Development and Investments, Inc. (ADI). The company intended to complete a 52 unit affordable housing development known as the Temple Union Apartment Homes Of course, that wasn’t the end of the story. In 2010, ADI came under investigation for defrauding the cities of Los Angeles and Glendale out of millions in affordable housing subsidies. Allegations included inflating construction costs and funneling company money into personal bank accounts. Local and state politicians came under fire for accepting conveniently timed campaign donations from ADI. Following two years of controversy, the company’s assets went into receivership in January 2013. Now in August, a new developer is picking up the pieces and trying their hand at building on the parcel. Hopefully it works out this time. Fingers crossed for something better looking than the Temple Union Apartments.