The City of Los Angeles has granted official approval for the entitlement plans of Centro Westlake, marking a significant milestone for the transit-oriented development at the Westlake/MacArthur Park subway station.
Designed by SOM and proposed by The Walter J Company, the project is a Joint Development with LA Metro, aiming to integrate residential, commercial, and community spaces with the existing transit infrastructure. The development is situated along Westlake Avenue between Wilshire Boulevard and 7th Street, directly above the Metro B (Red) Line.
Transit-oriented design and public accessibility
The project centres on a reimagined transit environment developed in collaboration with Metro and the local community. A new central open-air plaza will extend from the station, connecting to the intersection of Wilshire and Alvarado.
The plan includes pedestrian pathways and a dedicated mobility hub to improve accessibility and safety for the thousands of daily commuters. Two-storey retail pavilions frame the plaza, providing a seamless interface between transit and urban activity. The development also incorporates ample parking and multimodal transport connections, reflecting its emphasis on transit-oriented design.
Residential and commercial programmes
Centro Westlake will deliver 668 residential units, including 234 income-restricted apartments. The affordable housing includes 36 units for seniors with Section 8 vouchers, 66 units at 30–50% AMI, 66 units at 50–80% AMI, and 66 units at 120–150% AMI.
The mixed-use programme also features a 300-room hotel offering hospitality industry training through a partnership with Unite HERE! Local 11, 105,000ft² of office space, and a 10,000ft² medical office facility. Street-level retail will span over 50,000ft², with a significant portion reserved for minority-owned businesses and local stakeholders, providing opportunities for community participation in the project’s growth.
Community integration and cultural programming
The development includes a community plaza designed as a marketplace for local artisans, featuring space for craftsmen, performers, entrepreneurs, and street vending stations. By offering programming for arts, culture, and business resources, the project seeks to enhance social engagement and strengthen connections within the Westlake neighbourhood, which is rich in history and cultural diversity.
Architectural and urban impact
Two towers rising 39 and 55 storeys will incorporate elevated terraces and mixed-use programmes to activate the site throughout the day. By combining housing, transit, retail, hotel, and community-oriented spaces, Centro Westlake establishes a model for sustainable urban development in Los Angeles.
With entitlements now secured, the project moves toward finalising a joint development agreement with Metro, advancing closer to realising its integrated vision for Westlake/MacArthur Park.
