The 26-story development would replace an empty lot at 8844 Burton Way. (rendering courtesy of Crescent Heights)

A planned builder’s remedy project that would replace an empty lot at 8844 Burton Way has increased in height from 20 to 26 stories, according to revised plans submitted to the city of Beverly Hills in March and July. The updated project would be approximately 309 feet tall, an increase from the previous height of 223 feet tall. Additionally, the new project would be 492,029 square feet compared to the previous 480,686. It would also include 318 parking spaces as opposed to 277. The updated project maintains 200 housing units.

The project was created by Crescent Heights, a development group responsible for several other high-rise projects in Los Angeles including the 40-story building at 10000 Santa Monica Blvd. in Century City. Crescent Heights did not respond to a request for comment.

“Located in iconic Beverly Hills, 8844 Burton features 200 high-design residences and a bespoke collection of amenities, creating a boutique living experience complemented by breathtaking panoramic views,” a statement from Crescent Heights’ website reads.

The development exceeds usual city height and density restrictions due to the builder’s remedy, a state provision that allows private developers to bypass local code regulations when a project contains at least 13% affordable housing. The provision takes effect when a municipality’s housing element – a state-mandated outline of zoning for affordable housing within the city – is out of compliance.

The city of Beverly Hills’ housing element for the 2021-29 cycle was out of compliance for approximately three years between 2021-24.

The preliminary application for the development at 8844 Burton Way was submitted to the city in December 2023.

Although the updated project still includes affordable housing units, the number of affordable units was reduced from 40 lower income units to 14 extremely low-income units and eight moderate income units. The changes were made following updates in California’s housing laws which reduce the minimum number of affordable housing units necessary to qualify for builder’s remedy status.

Beverly Hills resident Renée Strauss, who lives around the corner from the project, said that she was “deeply concerned” when the project increased to an “aggressive 26-story plan.”

She also alleged that the city has not been transparent and communicative to residents on changes to the project and in providing updates throughout the development process. She said that the problem is not unique to the 8844 Burton Way development alone.

“As residents, we are not opposed to thoughtful, balanced development. We care deeply about responsible growth that honors the unique character of Beverly Hills,” Strauss said. “But when city leadership fails to communicate after specifically committing to do better, it erodes trust and creates unnecessary division. We are simply asking that the city uphold its promise, protect our voice and ensure transparency in matters that affect us all.”