Eight-Story Mixed-Use Project Proposed for Former Mel’s Drive-In Site in Santa Monica

A new eight-story mixed-use development is slated for 1670 Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica, replacing the existing Mel's Drive-In. Property owner ValueRock Realty submitted an application for the project, which proposes 138 studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments above 5,667 square feet of ground-floor commercial space. The plans also include semi-subterranean parking for 123 vehicles.

To facilitate the larger building, the developer is seeking density bonus incentives and waivers from standard land use regulations. In return for these entitlements, 14 of the proposed residential units will be designated as affordable housing for very low-, low-, and moderate-income households. Ottinger Architects is responsible for the design, which features a modern podium-type structure with amenities like a rooftop deck and a central courtyard. This development continues a trend of similar housing complexes along Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica.