LTSC partnered with Fideicomiso Comunitario Tierra Libre to renovate a neglected East LA apartment building under a unique community land trust model, achieving long-term affordability and stability for its residents.
700 Simmons
About the Project
Little Tokyo Service Center (LTSC) is a non-profit social service organization and affordable housing developer that has been improving the lives of individuals and families for over 40 years.
LTSC has developed over 1,000 units of affordable and permanent supportive housing in Greater Los Angeles. 700 Simmons is the first community land trust (CLT) project of LTSC and Fideicomiso Comunitario Tierra Libre (FCTL). The renovation of this previously neglected 11-unit property in East Los Angeles is part of a recent county-wide pilot program implementing a CLT strategy as an alternative ownership model to secure long-term affordable housing, promote community control, and prevent displacement. The LA County Board of Supervisors dedicated approximately $14 million for acquisition and rehab projects as part of this 2020 pilot CLT initiative.
700 Simmons is an 11-unit building in Unincorporated East Los Angeles near several transit sites, commercial corridors, and other amenities. With rehabilitation complete, including upgrades and renovations like new water heaters and a new electrical system, LTSC will transfer the land and building to FCTL who will work with residents to identify a community ownership model that best suits them. Through this housing model we aim to lower monthly housing costs, provide healthier and safer housing, promote neighborhood stability through perpetually affordable, community-controlled housing, and provide wealth creation through homeownership.
“LTSC is proud to be a partner in the first acquisition funded by the LA County Pilot Community Land Trust Partnership Program. I think this program shows the way forward to preserve naturally occurring affordable housing, which can prevent displacement and homelessness. We hope this CLT model can pave the way for safe, stable and affordable housing in L.A.'s ethnic and historic communities.”
Project Highlights:
- Two-story building constructed in 1930
- 11-unit property comprised of four (4) singles, six (6) one-bedroom, one-bathroom units, and one (1) two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit
- The building features six (6) single-car parking garages and balconies in select units
- First acquisition and rehab project completed under the LA County Pilot Community Land Trust Partnership Program
- With the community land trust model, residents pay significantly below market rents and have a pathway to potential homeownership
News & Media Coverage
- LA County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis Weekly Newsletter (10/25/2024) AANHPI Heart Health, Making History with 700 Simmons In East Los Angeles, Vincent Community Bikeways Opens, and more!
- Los Angeles Times (10/3/24) To renovate an apartment – and not jack up the rent: These property owners have found a way
A very special thank you to our many partners and funders, without whom this project would not have been possible:
- Fideicomiso Comunitario Tierra Libre
- District 1 Supervisor Hilda Solis
- County of Los Angeles CEO’s Office
- Los Angeles County Development Authority
- Wells Fargo Foundation
- Nonprofit Finance Fund
- NeighborWorks America
