News Summary
Costa Mesa has initiated a transformative affordable housing project with the Avon River Apartments, converting 120 motel rooms into permanent supportive housing. This innovative effort, part of California’s Project Homekey initiative, aims to provide stable homes for the unhoused and those in shelters. With construction already underway, the project symbolizes community collaboration and commitment to tackling homelessness, projecting completion by spring. The apartments will also feature support services and amenities to foster a thriving community for residents.
Costa Mesa Leads the Way with New Affordable Housing Project
Exciting news is coming from Costa Mesa, where a groundbreaking ceremony recently marked the start of construction on the much-anticipated Avon River Apartments. This new housing complex aims to provide permanent supportive housing for residents in need, and it’s designed to help individuals who are either unhoused or currently living in shelters.
Transforming Motels into Homes
Located at 1400 Bristol St., the Avon River Apartments project is not your average housing development. It involves the transformation of 120 motel rooms from a former Travelodge into cozy studio and one-bedroom apartments. This innovative approach is a part of California’s Project Homekey initiative, which focuses on converting vacant lodgings into permanent housing solutions. With construction already underway, officials believe the apartments will be ready by spring.
An Inside Look
Community Collaboration
The development, situated on a sprawling 3.5-acre parcel, represents a concerted effort to tackle homelessness with empathy and practicality. Costa Mesa has previously converted a former Motel 6 into 88 units of affordable housing geared towards seniors, veterans, and those at risk. The current Bristol Street project is estimated to cost a substantial $45.4 million, with significant contributions coming from various sources. City leaders have earmarked $4 million in funding for 2023, while nearby Newport Beach contributed an additional $3 million for 12 units on the property.
Financial Framework
The impressive funding package consists of nearly $29 million from Project Homekey, alongside $6.8 million in county housing funds. Additional support includes nearly $500,000 from CalOptima Health to see the project through to completion. Of the total units, 48 are anticipated to be filled through the county’s voucher program, while Costa Mesa can refer occupants for another 16 units.
Support Services in Place
The construction is being spearheaded by a reputable nonprofit developer known as American Family Housing (AFH), located in Midway City. Along with developing the apartments, AFH is responsible for providing essential on-site service providers as well as various assistance programs. These include support for social engagement, medical assistance, and workforce training, ensuring that residents have the resources they need to thrive.
Job Opportunities and Community Elements
But that’s not all! Residents will have access to job opportunities at a cozy Mediterranean restaurant called Pom & Olive, which will be situated on the property. To foster a true sense of community, AFH is also planning to incorporate an on-site garden and additional amenities to enrich residents’ lives.
A Bright Future Ahead
The flexible living arrangements allow tenants to start with a one-year lease, with the possibility of remaining long-term or transitioning to independent living depending on their circumstances and aspirations. This project is not just about providing a roof over someone’s head; it’s about building a supportive and stable community where individuals can flourish.
The Avon River Apartments stand as a testament to the power of collective action among cities, state, and nonprofit partners. It speaks volumes about what can be achieved when a community comes together to create supportive, affordable housing solutions for those who need it most.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Travelodge Rebuilt
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Orange County Register: Senior Housing Project Approved
- Google Search: Costa Mesa affordable housing
- KFI AM 640: Costa Mesa Approves Senior Housing
- Google Scholar: Affordable Housing California
- Los Angeles Times: Conversion of Motel into Low-Income Units
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Housing
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
