News Summary
The Costa Mesa City Council has approved a contentious housing development at the former TBN headquarters. The proposal includes 142 residential units to address rising housing demand. Despite concerns from residents about traffic and safety, the council unanimously backed the project, which includes provisions for affordable housing and park improvements. The development aims to provide solutions for Costa Mesa’s increasing rental population and enhance local infrastructure.
Costa Mesa City Council Approves Controversial Housing Development at Former TBN Headquarters
Costa Mesa is buzzing with news as the City Council has officially given the green light to a housing development that’s been the talk of the town. Residents have been holding their breath over this decision related to the former Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) headquarters. The approved proposal from Meritage Homes consists of 142 residential units, which is a mix of 122 stacked-flat townhomes and 20 detached single-family homes built on a 6.12-acre parcel located at 3150 Bear St., just south of the busy 405 Freeway.
Back in July, the planning commissioners provided their thumbs-up, paving the way for the City Council’s recent approval. However, not everyone is on board with the idea. In September of the following year, the City Council expressed that changes were necessary, particularly concerning open spaces, sidewalks, street safety, and improvements to the nearby Shiffer Park.
Growing Housing Demand in Costa Mesa
The need for housing is jumping up high in Costa Mesa! With about 60% of the population renting their homes, the costs continue to rise, which only adds fuel to the fire for the housing debate. The latest development proposal steps in to help address some of these challenges. Meritage Homes has committed to designating seven units for very low-income occupants, targeting the ever-important “missing middle” demographic that struggles to find affordable living options.
As part of the deal, Meritage has promised a one-time payment of $250,000 aimed at improving Shiffer Park, in addition to standard developer and impact fees. With the inclusion of 319 parking spots—that’s right, with every unit having a two-car garage and an added 35 guest parking spaces—this proposal is definitely placing emphasis on convenience and accessibility.
Concerns from Local Residents
Traffic Management and Future Prospects
So, what’s next? If everything goes according to plan, we might see model units by May 2027. The once-bustling TBN property has gone through various transformations over the years, and now its path leads to residential development—a change that’s sure to shape the future of Costa Mesa.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Plan for 142 Ownership Units at Costa Mesa’s TBN Building Ratified by Council
- Orange County Register: New Housing Community Could Replace Former TBN Headquarters
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Council Approves 40-Unit Victoria Place
- Wikipedia: Costa Mesa, California
- Google Search: Costa Mesa housing development

Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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