BREA : Agency Seeks Housing Project Ideas

The city Redevelopment Agency wants to see condominiums or single-family dwellings developed at Birch Street and Poplar Avenue with a creative design that complements the adjacent Brea Community Center.

Construction of the center is scheduled to begin in December.

In its request for proposals, which will be sent out to interested developers this week, the Redevelopment Agency is seeking a low- to mid-density residential project that would have a maximum of 46 units on the 2.6-acre site.

The city currently owns 2.2 acres of the property and anticipates acquiring the remaining two parcels from private parties.

At least 40% of the residential units would be 1,500 square feet or larger and have three or more bedrooms.

The remainder of the units would be a minimum of 1,200 square feet and contain at least two bedrooms.

To increase the amount of affordable housing in Brea, at least 20% of the project would be designated for median-income households.

The current definition of median income in Orange County is $58,800 annually for a family of four.

Developers are required to submit their proposals by Jan. 19. Approval of the residential project is anticipated by May.