Norwalk Transit Village Project Advances

Norwalk, CA - On May 17, 2022, the Norwalk City Council received an update on the Norwalk Transit Village project planned to transform the former California Youth Authority facility located at 13200 Bloomfield Ave. with new affordable homes, community-enhancing activation, recreational areas, and connectivity to the Metrolink Station and public transit for residents of Norwalk to enjoy.

"My fellow councilmembers and I, along with many members of our community are excited to see how this project has been progressing as it has been in the making for years," said Mayor Rick Ramirez. "This development project provides the City with the opportunity to transform the vacant and deserted land into a neighborhood that beautifies our City and becomes another place for residents to enjoy. As we move through the State's process, I am confident in our City team and consultants to address concerns that arise to ensure that this project benefits our entire community."

Since the last update to the City Council on February 22, the draft conceptual plan has been refined after input from the community, key stakeholders, City Commissioners, and the Steering Committee. Key plan updates shared with the Norwalk City Council included:

· Commercial Component at Bloomfield Ave.: Commercial, dining, and hotel uses would be located on the non-residential portion of the site.

· Residential Component: Enhanced residential design features along with a comprehensive mobility and parking strategy.

· Community Gathering and Open Spaces: A micro-forest and green buffer zones would be created for the community to enjoy and an at-grade pedestrian and bike connection to the transit center is also being considered.

Through this undertaking, the City has conducted robust community outreach since January 2022, meeting the community where they were at by hosting virtual Community meetings, attending the local Farmers Market, hosting an in-person Community Workshop open house and more. The Norwalk community continues to be supportive of the project, understanding the benefits it will bring to the City. Big themes that have been consistent since outreach began have been the community's interest in affordable housing choices, healthy amenities and restaurants in order to keep dollars in the community, and greater connectivity to the Metrolink and public transit. The community has also shared that public safety, site access and traffic, and sustainability should be factored into the project, which is being taken into consideration.

Next steps for the project team will be to begin the Environmental Impact Report and specific plan for the project. Entitlements are expected to be approved in mid to late Fall 2023. The State would then be able to officially transfer the land to the City following project approvals.

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