How Executive Directive 1 (ED1) Is Fast-Tracking Affordable Housing in Los Angeles

At Inform Construction Inc., we’re working closely with developers, architects, and local agencies to take full advantage of ED1. This directive is not only changing how fast affordable housing gets built — it’s redefining the way Los Angeles approaches housing production altogether.

Executive Directive 1, signed in December 2022, is an emergency order by the Mayor of Los Angeles that mandates city departments to streamline the approval process for 100% affordable housing and permanent supportive housing projects.

Before ED1, affordable housing developers often waited months — or even years — to receive approvals. Now, ED1 ensures that eligible projects are prioritized, fast-tracked, and coordinated across all relevant city departments, including:

● Los Angeles Department of City Planning

● Department of Building and Safety (LADBS)

● Department of Transportation (LADOT)

● Bureau of Engineering

● Fire Department and others

Under ED1, these departments are expected to complete reviews and issue permits within strict timeframes, often within 60 days.

To qualify for ED1 streamlining, a project must:

● Be 100% affordable, with all units reserved for households earning 80% or less of Area Median Income (AMI)

● Include supportive housing elements if serving individuals experiencing homelessness

● Be in alignment with local zoning or take advantage of density bonuses through programs like TOC (Transit Oriented Communities)

● Follow applicable design, safety, and environmental regulations

These projects often combine multiple funding sources, such as Measure HHH, LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credits), and state or federal grants.

ED1 is a game-changer for both developers and the communities they serve. Here's why:

● Time Savings: Accelerated permitting and entitlement can reduce project timelines by 6–12 months

● Cost Efficiency: Faster approvals lead to lower holding and financing costs

● Greater Impact: More housing units can be delivered each year to meet urgent demand

● Policy Alignment: Supports broader goals around equity, mobility, and sustainability in Los Angeles

By eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic delays, ED1 empowers developers to focus on building — not waiting.

When combined with the Transit Oriented Communities (TOC) Incentive Program, ED1 creates even more opportunity:

● Higher density allowances near major transit stops

● Reduced parking requirements, especially near Metro lines

● Streamlined approvals for projects that offer deeply affordable units

At Inform Construction Inc., we are actively managing ED1-eligible TOC projects throughout LA — helping clients deliver high-quality housing faster, and more affordably, than ever before.

Our team has deep experience navigating Los Angeles’ evolving regulatory environment. We specialize in construction management for affordable housing, and our work is guided by a commitment to efficiency, compliance, and community impact.

When you partner with us, you gain:

● Expertise in ED1-eligible project planning

● Coordination with city departments and consultants

● Proven project timelines and cost control strategies

● A partner dedicated to building equitable housing for LA’s future

Los Angeles needs more affordable housing — and it needs it now. With Executive Directive 1, we finally have the tools to move from policy to progress.

Learn how Inform Construction Inc. can help you navigate ED1 and deliver your next affordable housing project on time and on budget.

Contact us today at www.informcm.com to get started.