The complex is a five story 40-unit building, created for low income families and residents, with fifteen of the building's units reserved specifically for families with children under the age of five. According to the State Treasurer's office, rents in low-rise complex range from $233 to $1,292 per month.
Originally called the Affordable Housing Project, construction began in May 2014 and was supposed to be completed by Fall 2015.
“WHCHC feels very fortunate to be able to provide homes for this underserved population," said WHCHC Executive Director Robin Conerly at the grand opening. “Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas was instrumental in helping provide First5LA funding for this wonderful project.”
However, a small church near the border of Koreatown and Pico Union was demolished to make way for this 40-unit affordable housing development.
“I used to go to this church a lot, honestly as they demolished it, it got pretty loud around here — I wasn’t a fan of the construction, but now after seeing a lot more diverse and new people, it’s pretty exciting,” said Ray Solanki, a member of the Pico-union community who does not live in Vermont Manzanita. “My kids hang out with a lot of people who have moved into this facility.”
Located at 1225 South Vermont Avenue, Vermont Manzanita situated on multiple bus lines, making it simple to accommodate residents with convenient transportation.
“I don’t have a car, so it’s natural that I take the bus,” said resident Marie Garcia. “I’m glad it’s so close.”
While it is considered affordable housing, Vermont Manzanita uses the latest “green building” techniques and materials, incorporating green features designed to ensure long-term energy efficiency and sustainability.
Amenities for the residents include a community room with television and kitchenette area, a homework study room, play areas for children, a computer work area, an on-site resident manager’s office, a resident services and social services office, and laundry facilities located on each floor.
Vermont Manzanita also includes solar hot water, storm water infiltration planters, drought tolerant landscaping, high efficiency irrigation systems, and water and energy-efficient appliances for its residents.
“I’m one hundred percent grateful to be living at the Vermont Manzanita,” said John Garcia, a low-income resident. “It was honestly a dream to live in such housing. I get to bring my family here.”
