I am proud of our community when it creates a place for those less fortunate to live well. In this regard, I applaud the development of a new 205 unit affordable housing development in San Diego. Named Atmosphere, this newly introduced apartment project offers decent housing for formerly homeless individuals and economically challenged families.
The building was created by Wakeland Development utilizing a $79 million budget provided by eight sources of funding, and supported by Civic San Diego, the Housing Commission and San Diego County; truly a public-private enterprise. Some of the sources included funding from the county, the housing commission and others, plus state tax credits. This is what is required to make affordable housing a reality.
Atmosphere is located in the 1400 block of Fourth Avenue and is now ready for occupancy, this following a ten year development process. 51 units have been set aside for homeless families and one can only imagine how gratified these stressed individuals are to finally find decent housing.
Though not as elaborate as luxury housing, Atmosphere does provide some amenities such as a ground floor community room, a rooftop terrace, a children’s’ play area and 24 hour security. Demand is great, as proved by the more than 700 people who are currently on the waiting list for a unit.
We recognize how great the need is for affordable housing. Atmosphere’s units rent for between $525 and $1,250 for qualified tenants. Since income limits and other requirements vary between projects, I suggest that you visit the Web site maintained by the county with specifics on income and other requirements for a host of projects. Here is the link for the information: sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/sdhcd/docs/rental-assistance/housing_resource.pdf
The good news is that other projects are on the horizon. Talmadge Gardens will have 60 units for seniors. Father Joe’s Villages is working on retrofitting under-used motels. 2018 should see about 800 units in buildings on Fifth and Ash and on Commercial Street between 14th and 17th Streets.
I welcome these properties, though the need for affordable housing continues to greatly surpass available units. A new project in Lincoln Park called Ouchi Courtyards opened with some 1,600 people on the waiting list. Nonetheless we cheer the addition of Atmosphere and delight in the knowledge that 205 individuals and families have found a home. Let’s keep up the good work! Bravo San Diego.
