Item 4 - People for Housing O.C. Fighting for a future of abundant housing in Orange County.
peopleforhousing.org
Christopher P. Walker, Chair
Anaheim Planning Commission
City of Anaheim
200 S. Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805
Re: SUPPORT Item #4 Nov 17, 2025, Anaheim Festival Specific Plan
Dear Chair Walker and Members of the Planning Commission:
I am writing to express strong support for the proposed 447-unit mixed-use apartment community ,
which includes 10% moderate-income homes , new commercial uses, and significant public-realm
improvements. This project represents a thoughtful, community-serving investment and an important
opportunity for the City of Anaheim—particularly for District 6 , where very little new housing has
been produced for decades.
A Transformative Reuse of an Underutilized Site
The project will revitalize a long-vacant theater site, replacing blight with thoughtfully designed
homes, neighborhood-serving retail, and high-quality open space. It turns an empty parcel into a
productive community asset that contributes both to Anaheim’s housing goals and to the local
economy.
Mixed-Use Benefits That Strengthen the Community
By integrating homes with retail, restaurants, and green space, this project creates a more walkable,
connected environment and supports existing nearby businesses. The on-site customer base will
strengthen surrounding commercial areas and help sustain local shops and dining options. New
pedestrian improvements and landscaped public areas will create safer, more vibrant streets that
residents of the broader neighborhood can enjoy.
Advancing District 6 Equity
District 6 is one of Anaheim’s wealthiest and least dense areas, characterized largely by single-family
homes and minimal multifamily housing production. This project represents a meaningful step toward
district equity —ensuring that all parts of the city, including its higher-resource areas, contribute
1
housing opportunities. Providing homes in amenity-rich areas expands access to good schools,
parks, and economic opportunity, delivering broader benefits citywide.
Moderate-Income Housing and Market-Rate Supply Both Matter
The inclusion of moderate-income homes (10%) is a valuable addition for families who earn too
much to qualify for traditional affordable housing but still cannot afford the high costs of rental housing
in Anaheim.
At the same time, market-rate housing helps meet overall demand in a high-cost region. Even at
market rents, new units relieve pressure on the existing housing stock, which helps stabilize rents
across the city. Anaheim needs homes at all income levels, and this project directly contributes to that
broader housing strategy.
A Well-Designed Project That Aligns With Community Values
The proposal complements the aesthetics and community identity of District 6, with a commitment to
high-quality architecture, landscaping, and amenities. The project provides substantial open space,
pedestrian connectivity, and neighborhood-serving uses—all consistent with the values D6 residents
have said are important: safety, beauty, and functional neighborhood design.
A Rare and Important Opportunity
Given how few housing proposals come forward in District 6, this is a unique chance to bring new
homes, new amenities, and new energy to the district. Approving this thoughtfully designed
mixed-use development would demonstrate Anaheim’s commitment to balanced growth, economic
vitality, and fairness across districts.
For all these reasons, I respectfully urge the Planning Commission to approve this project.
Thank you for your consideration and for your continued leadership on Anaheim’s housing future.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Hansburg
Cofounder & Director
Fighting for a future of abundant housing in Orange County.
peopleforhousing.org 2