South Coast Metro, a vibrant urban district straddling the cities of Santa Ana and Costa Mesa in Orange County, California, is on the cusp of a major transformation. Known for its iconic South Coast Plaza shopping center, world-class performing arts venues like the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and a bustling business environment, this area has long been a hub for commerce and culture. However, with California’s ongoing housing crisis and the push for more sustainable, mixed-use developments, South Coast Metro is seeing an influx of ambitious new construction projects. These initiatives aim to blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, creating walkable communities that reduce reliance on cars while boosting the local economy.
As of early 2026, several high-profile projects are either underway, approved, or in advanced planning stages. These include massive mixed-use redevelopments of outdated shopping centers, new residential communities addressing housing shortages, and infrastructure upgrades enhancing connectivity. This blog post dives deep into these developments, exploring their scopes, timelines, and potential impacts on the region. From towering apartment complexes to innovative transit systems, South Coast Metro is evolving into a model of modern urban living.
The Rise of Mixed-Use Megaprojects
One of the most talked-about transformations in the South Coast Metro is the redevelopment of aging retail sites into dynamic, mixed-use neighborhoods. These projects reflect a broader trend in Orange County, where underutilized commercial land is being repurposed to meet the demand for housing and community amenities.
At the forefront is The Village Santa Ana, a 17-acre redevelopment of the former South Coast Plaza Village shopping center in Santa Ana. Developed by C.J. Segerstrom & Sons in partnership with Houston-based Hines, this project promises to replace about 100,000 square feet of existing commercial space with nearly 1.9 million square feet of new development. Key components include 1,583 residential units, up to 300,000 square feet of office space, and 80,000 square feet dedicated to shops and restaurants. Additionally, the plan incorporates 13.8 acres of open space, with 7.5 acres accessible to the public, and parking for nearly 3,500 vehicles.
Approved by the Santa Ana City Council in September 2025, The Village is set to unfold in five phases over approximately 20 years. Phase 1 alone will deliver 360 residential units, 73,175 square feet of commercial space, 797 parking spots, and 3.1 acres of public open space. Subsequent phases build on this, with Phase 4 introducing the bulk of the office space and additional retail. The project isn’t just about building; it includes $9.3 million in community benefits payments and $7.1 million for affordable housing initiatives in Santa Ana. This redevelopment addresses the area’s housing needs while creating jobs and enhancing the urban fabric, turning an outdated mall into a thriving community hub.
Just a stone’s throw away, on South Bristol Street between Sunflower Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard, lies Related Bristol, another landmark project spanning 41 acres. Led by Related California, a veteran developer with decades of experience in mixed-income housing, this initiative will replace the aging Metro Town Square retail center and its expansive parking lots with a contemporary urban community. The development features rental apartments, including studios and one-bedroom units, alongside unique shopping, neighborhood services, dining options, a premium hotel, and a senior living component. Nearly one-third of the site—about 13 acres—will be dedicated to programmed open spaces, such as parks, plazas, and pedestrian pathways open to the entire community.
Approved unanimously by the Santa Ana City Council in October 2024, Related Bristol is slated for groundbreaking in 2026, with construction divided into three phases. Phase 1, covering the southern half, is expected to wrap up by 2030, while the full project could extend to 2036. Parking is designed to support up to two cars per unit, informed by local data, and the project complies with Santa Ana’s Housing Opportunity Ordinance, potentially including affordable units or in-lieu fees. Environmental impacts, including traffic and infrastructure, have been thoroughly reviewed, with mitigations in place. This project is projected to generate significant revenue for the city—over $500 million in the first 30 years—while fostering safety and community engagement.
These mixed-use projects exemplify how South Coast Metro is shifting from car-centric sprawl to pedestrian-friendly environments. By integrating living, working, and leisure spaces, they aim to reduce commute times, lower carbon emissions, and create vibrant street life.
Residential Boom: New Homes for a Growing Population
Beyond the megaprojects, South Coast Metro is witnessing a surge in dedicated residential developments, particularly in Costa Mesa, where housing demand is high due to the area’s proximity to employment centers and amenities.
A prime example is Hive Live at 3333 Susan Street, a mixed-use residential community developed by Legacy Partners. This project will bring 1,050 homes to the site, including 45 affordable units, replacing a 182,000-square-foot office campus along the northern edge near the 405 Freeway. The development includes 3,692 square feet of commercial space, parking for 1,751 vehicles, and five acres of open space. Structured around three five-story buildings with courtyards, swimming pools, and central parking, Hive Live is designed for modern lifestyles.
Construction is poised to start in January 2026, with completion over an eight-year period. As part of a wave of transformations in Orange County, Hive Live contributes to adding over 5,000 apartments in the vicinity, alongside nearby developments like One Metro West. This influx of housing is crucial for accommodating the region’s growing workforce, particularly in tech, retail, and creative industries.
Another notable residential project is the Bear Street Housing Development at 3150 Bear Street in Costa Mesa, spearheaded by Meritage Homes. This 6.12-acre site, formerly the Trinity Broadcasting Network headquarters, will host 142 units: 122 stacked-flat townhouses and 20 detached single-family homes. The townhouses vary in configuration, offering options for diverse family sizes, while the single-family homes provide private backyards. Amenities include 2.13 acres of public and private open space, rooftop balconies on select units, and 35 guest parking spaces, with each home featuring a two-car garage.
Approved by the Costa Mesa Planning Commission in July 2025 and awaiting City Council review in August 2025, the project leverages a state density bonus, designating seven units for very-low-income owners. It also includes a $250,000 contribution to city park improvements and pedestrian access points. Aimed at “missing middle” housing, this development targets first-time buyers and renters transitioning to ownership, helping to alleviate Orange County’s affordability challenges.
These residential projects underscore South Coast Metro’s appeal to new residents, drawn by its central location, excellent schools, and cultural offerings. With prime accessibility to major freeways like the 405 and 55, the area is attracting young professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Infrastructure Enhancements: Connecting the Community
No urban transformation is complete without infrastructure upgrades, and South Coast Metro is benefiting from several key initiatives aimed at improving mobility and sustainability.
The OC Streetcar is a flagship project set to revolutionize public transit in the region. Operated by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), this light rail line will connect Santa Ana and Garden Grove, providing seamless links to buses, Metrolink trains, and local destinations. With service debuting in 2026, the streetcar will feature convenient stops for employees, shoppers, and students, enhancing access to South Coast Metro’s commercial core. Testing is underway, and construction updates indicate steady progress toward opening. This project addresses traffic congestion on key arteries, promoting eco-friendly commuting.
Complementing this is the Bristol Street Transit Corridor Study, which analyzes options to improve traffic flow and public transit along Bristol Street, a vital thoroughfare through South Coast Metro. From West 17th Street southward, enhancements could include dedicated bus lanes, bike paths, and signal optimizations, directly benefiting the area’s new developments.
Further afield but impactful for regional connectivity is the Southeast Gateway Line, a 14.5-mile light rail project by LA Metro linking Slauson Station to Artesia. Serving southeast LA County cities like Cerritos and Bellflower, it could integrate with Orange County systems, including potential connections to the OC Streetcar. With construction bonds and planning advancing in 2026, this line promises better access for South Coast Metro residents commuting northward.
These infrastructure projects are essential for supporting the population growth spurred by new housing. By prioritizing transit-oriented development, South Coast Metro is positioning itself as a sustainable urban model, reducing gridlock and improving quality of life.
Economic and Community Impacts
The wave of construction in the South Coast Metro is poised to deliver substantial economic benefits. Projects like The Village and Related Bristol are expected to create thousands of jobs in construction, retail, and hospitality. For instance, Related Bristol alone could generate $500 million in net revenue for Santa Ana over 30 years. This influx will fund public services, schools, and parks, enhancing community resilience.
On the social front, these developments emphasize inclusivity. Affordable housing mandates ensure diverse income levels can call the area home, while open spaces foster community gatherings. However, challenges like construction disruptions and potential strain on local resources are being addressed through environmental reviews and phased buildouts.
Environmentally, the focus on mixed-use and transit reduces sprawl, aligning with California’s climate goals. Pedestrian pathways and green spaces will improve air quality and promote wellness.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for South Coast Metro
As 2026 unfolds, South Coast Metro stands at the threshold of reinvention. With projects like The Village Santa Ana, Related Bristol, Hive Live, and Bear Street Housing adding thousands of homes, alongside transit upgrades like the OC Streetcar, the area is set to become even more dynamic. These initiatives not only address immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity.
Residents and visitors can anticipate a blend of luxury shopping, cultural experiences, and modern living that rivals top urban districts. While change brings excitement, it also requires community input to ensure equitable growth. South Coast Metro’s evolution is a testament to thoughtful urban planning, promising a thriving future for generations to come.
