HACLA highlights Jordan Downs local hiring success in housing revitalization program

During a recent meeting of the Personnel and Hiring Committee in Los Angeles, significant strides were discussed regarding local hiring initiatives tied to the redevelopment of Jordan Downs, a public housing project. The committee highlighted the implementation of Section 3, a program aimed at ensuring job opportunities for low-income residents, particularly those from the surrounding community of Watts.

The presentation, led by HACLA representatives, emphasized the importance of local hiring in construction projects. The committee revealed that they have exceeded the HUD requirement of 30% new hires from the local area, achieving between 50% to 70% of new hires from Section 3-eligible residents. This initiative is designed to provide employment opportunities not only for new construction but also for ongoing operations within the community.

Jordan Downs, which is undergoing a major transformation, is set to increase its housing units from 700 to nearly 1,600, alongside the development of commercial spaces and public amenities. The project is expected to generate approximately 20,000 job opportunities over its lifespan, significantly impacting local employment.

The committee also discussed the importance of compliance and monitoring to ensure that contractors adhere to local hiring commitments. HACLA has established rigorous reporting requirements for developers, including monthly updates on hiring practices and labor compliance checks. This oversight aims to maintain accountability and ensure that the benefits of the redevelopment are felt by the community.

Looking ahead, the committee is preparing for the revitalization of Rancho San Pedro, another public housing project, which will follow a similar model to Jordan Downs. The focus remains on building partnerships with local organizations to train residents and prepare them for available job opportunities.

The discussions underscored a commitment to not only improve housing but also to foster economic growth and stability within the community through targeted employment initiatives. The committee plans to continue monitoring progress and will reconvene to assess the outcomes of these efforts in the near future.