The MAO was designed to streamline the review and approval process of projects that need more than one entitlement actions (a Tract Map and a Zone Variance, for example). The MAO also allowed previously approved projects with multiple approvals a one-time extension, which has revived a lot of moribund projects.
"These extensions have played a significant role in jump-starting the local economy by providing more housing opportunities and supporting local businesses," wrote Sr. City Planner Tom Rothmann and Planning Asst. Nicole Sanchez in the quarterly department newsletter.
More than half of the 170 projects have been residential that collectively could add more than 6,000 residential units to the city.
Planning Department Spring 2013 Newsletter:
http://planning.lacity.org/Newsletters/Spring2013.pdf