Progress on Marina del Rey’s Taxpayer-Funded Housing Project Stalled
Unfinished Housing Project for Homeless in Los Angeles Draws Community Concerns
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. – A city initiative intended to swiftly transform a hotel into housing for individuals experiencing homelessness has evolved into a years-long construction endeavor, with nearly $20 million now invested in its development.
The City of Los Angeles acquired the former Ramada Inn located at 3130 Washington Blvd. in 2020 for approximately $10.2 million as part of the state’s Project Homekey program, designed to rapidly expand available housing. Originally serving as interim housing, the facility was closed in 2022 to facilitate its conversion to permanent supportive housing.
As construction continues nearly four years later, residents in the vicinity express frustrations over the project’s slow pace and apparent lack of progress. Sean O’Brien, a local resident, voiced his concerns: "It’s every day that ends in Y. Where are the workers? Where is the urgency?"
City records indicate that delays arose primarily from challenges related to permitting and financing. Documents reviewed show that the nonprofit operator, People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), spent close to two years navigating the necessary approvals from various agencies, including the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety and the Fire Department.
After overcoming these obstacles, the project faced an additional funding shortfall, necessitating an extra $1.5 million in Proposition HHH housing funds to maintain progress. When combined with loans and other public and private grants, the overall investment in the project now amounts to about $20 million. Once completed, the development is expected to offer 32 units of permanent supportive housing for those in need.
Despite acknowledging the importance of housing solutions, some neighbors remain critical, questioning both the cost and the timeline of the project. “Why does it take so long? It’s such a waste of money, and there’s nothing to even show for it,” stated nearby resident Brennan Lindner. O’Brien echoed these sentiments, asking, "How can you keep spending more and more?"
Residents also highlighted ongoing visible homelessness in the area, citing concerns about litter and signs of encampments near the construction site. “We certainly need people living in there,” one neighbor remarked, noting the pressing need for housing amidst local challenges.
In light of these delays, city officials have identified systemic issues with the current process of converting interim housing sites. City Administrative Officer Matthew Szabo recently advised the City Council to refrain from demobilizing any Project Homekey sites until full funding is secured, aiming to prevent future vacancies while financing is finalized.
City officials now estimate that the project could be completed later this year, though skepticism remains among local residents. O’Brien noted past reassurances: “Last year they said it would open in the spring. Then they said summer. If you look around, I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s not open next summer.”
