Commission OKs plans to replace house with 3 new homes

This house at 10736 La Reina Ave. will be demolished and replaced with three new townhomes. (MLS photo)

DOWNEY — Despite concerns over density, privacy and parking, the Downey Planning Commission on Wednesday approved plans to demolish a single-family home in Downtown Downey and replace it with three new townhomes.

Located at 10736 La Reina Ave., the project consists of two attached, three-story units at the front of the property (approximates 1,574 square feet each), with a third two-story unit (1,439 square feet) towards the rear, as well as three two-car garages and two guest parking spaces.

The current home was built in 1923, according to the Downey Historical Society, and features three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The new homes will reflect a Tuscan architectural style with smooth stucco finishes, arched doorways and windows, terracotta style roof and stone walls.

There were reservations across the planning commission about the impact the project would have on the surrounding neighborhood, which is made up largely of single-story homes.

A rendering of the new homes approved to be built at 10736 La Reina Avenue. (City of Downey)

Commissioner Mario Guerra said the project was “out of the character” of the neighborhood.

“I believe that it’s still a beautiful project, a beautiful building. I think that it’s just over-built for there,” said Guerra.

Still, it was ultimately only vice chair Carrie Uva who voted no on the project.

“I have reservations about the parking issue, and the density, and the height of the building; I’m not going to lie, I have issues with that,” said Uva. “Like I said, I think it’s a beautiful project. I think it’s a beautiful apartment building.”

Downey Fire Department personnel requested that the curb immediately adjacent to the property be painted red and designated “no parking,” as to allow adequate access to La Reina Avenue with their vehicles and equipment.

The project was approved on a 3-1 vote.

Eric Pierce contributed to this report.