Monterey Park Approves Expanded Mixed-Use Project at 114 E. Garvey Avenue

The City of Monterey Park has granted approval for a significantly revised mixed-use development known as Celadon, located at 114 E. Garvey Avenue, at the intersection of Garvey and Garfield Avenues. Developer Rykadan initially secured approval in 2021 for a five-story building with 105 condominiums and 70,000 square feet of commercial space. Subsequent revisions in 2024 increased the residential component to 150 homes and reduced commercial space to 43,000 square feet. The latest update, approved on August 5, further amends the project to a seven-story edifice featuring 169 one- and two-bedroom apartments. This iteration also scales back the ground-floor commercial space to 16,300 square feet and parking to 343 vehicles. Studio T-Square is responsible for the contemporary design, which includes a new public plaza. The project benefits from an exemption from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review through the use of AB 130. This approval reflects the dynamic nature of urban development, where projects adapt to market demands and regulatory incentives. For developers and investors, this case illustrates the potential for project evolution and the strategic use of state legislation like AB 130 to streamline approvals.