60-unit apartment complex to be built in Whittier

Photo courtesy L.A. Conservancy

WHITTIER – Whittier’s Planning Commission last week approved plans for a 60-unit apartment complex at the site of Five Points Car Wash, which closed earlier this year. 

The car wash, known for its distinctive Googie architecture, will re-open at the site in a revamped format, officials said. 

Located on a 3-acre triangular lot where Whittier Boulevard, Washington Boulevard and Santa Fe Springs Road converge, the apartment complex will feature entry points on the north and south sides. 

A traffic study confirmed that traffic at the intersection will likely be impacted but not by a significant amount. 

The property was purchased by Newport Beach-based Clearwater Communities, which said it would keep the car wash for its cultural significance. 

“This is something that will draw people in,” said Phil Cacerra, a spokesman for Clearwater Communities. “People want to see landmarks.”