701 South Myrtle Avenue Moves Forward as a New Downtown Extension in Monrovia

A major housing project planned for South Myrtle Avenue reflects how Monrovia is gradually extending the scale and activity of its downtown beyond Old Town’s traditional boundaries. The development, approved for a site at 701 South Myrtle Avenue, introduces new housing and small-scale retail in an area the city has identified as a natural place for walkable growth.

Blake Griggs Development, operating through BGB Myrtle LLC, is leading the project, with architectural design by AO.

701 Myrtle Avenue Street View via AO

The development occupies a roughly 1.6-acre property at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and Olive Avenue, where low-intensity commercial uses are slated to give way to a denser mix of residential and neighborhood-serving space. Plans call for a five-story building containing 204 apartments, including 20 homes reserved for low- and moderate-income households. Approximately 2,370 square feet of ground-floor commercial space is included, along with a 329-space parking garage designed to serve both residents and nearby activity along the corridor.

701 Myrtle Avenue via AO

The building is organized to reduce its apparent bulk, with façades broken into smaller volumes and active storefronts lining the sidewalk. Residential amenities are distributed throughout the project and include a rooftop deck, pool, dog park, courtyard spaces, and an indoor fitness area integrated into the overall layout.

701 Myrtle Avenue Rooftop Plan via AO

Delivering the project required a tailored planning approach rather than standard zoning alone. The city adopted the 701 South Myrtle Specific Plan and approved accompanying amendments to land use regulations, alongside certification of a full Environmental Impact Report. Together, those actions establish site-specific standards that allow height, density, and parking to be addressed as a unified project rather than through incremental development.

As Monrovia continues to concentrate new housing near transit and established commercial areas, the redevelopment of 701 South Myrtle Avenue illustrates how long-term planning policies are shaping growth along the city’s southern edge while reinforcing the walkable character of downtown.

Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail

Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews