Neighborhood Congregational Church shares new plans for affordable housing development
On Wednesday, Jan. 22, nearly 75 people turned out to Neighborhood Congregational Church (NCC) to hear representatives from NCC, Related California and KTGY Architects share new plans for an affordable housing development. The proposed development is planned for the current NCC site at 340 St. Ann’s Drive in Laguna Beach. Related California submitted a new application for entitlement to the city of Laguna Beach in December 2025.
Click on photo for larger image
Photos courtesy of NCC
Attendees at meeting gained insights into plans for the affordable housing development on NCC site
Feedback from the community on NCC’s master plan from early 2025, along with a pending historic 44% cut in federal funding for affordable housing, necessitated NCC to scale back their original plan. However, their commitment to providing affordable housing and a welcoming space for spiritual growth remains unchanged.
To respond to this new funding environment, the revised plans focus on creating 29 units (28 affordable housing units, plus one resident manager unit), while rejuvenating one or both of the church’s existing buildings – Bridge Hall and the Sanctuary. Landscaping improvements to enhance curb appeal are also envisioned.
Click on photo for larger image
Rendering of new affordable housing
NCC recently began working with an architectural and interior design firm to evaluate the buildings and opportunities to extend their useful life, increase flexible space and meet modern building codes. NCC is looking at improvements to accessibility, plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning systems – and reconfigured space on the lower level for new classrooms for the Montessori School in hopes it remains on site. NCC intends to share their renovation plans with the community at a later date.
The church property is one of four identified in the city’s Housing Element as a housing opportunity site. There have been no 100% affordable residential developments built in Laguna Beach in more than 20 years.
Related California will be installing story poles in the coming weeks, so neighbors can assess their views in line with the proposed two-story housing development.
A public hearing before the city of Laguna Beach Planning Commission is anticipated sometime in the spring. Pending city approvals and public financing, construction for the affordable housing could begin as early as December 2026.
To view the plans for the affordable housing development, visit NCC-Affordable-Housing_Application-Plans_December-2025.pdf.
