By Kathy Chouteau
A group of stakeholders came together Thurs., June 29 to mark the reopening of Hacienda Heights, an affordable housing community with 150 homes for seniors age 62 and over in Richmond.
Community Housing Development Corporation (CHDC) and Mercy Housing California (MHC)—both affordable housing nonprofits—spearheaded the public housing site’s redevelopment along with the City of Richmond and the Richmond Housing Authority. The project is offering older adults 150 apartments, encompassing two management units and 148 affordable homes for seniors broken down into 24 studios, 113 one-bedrooms and 11 two-bedrooms.
The affordable homes for new and returning residents are open to those earning 20 to 50 percent of Area Median Income. The redeveloped Hacienda Heights includes 25 homes reserved for people exiting homelessness, and is providing these residents with access to supportive services and case management.
The revamped space features a full seismic retrofit, new energy-efficient appliances for all apartment homes, pedestrian-friendly walkways, electric vehicle charging stations, community center, new public art and more than an acre of landscaped courtyards and gardens.
The property’s resident services and case management will be coordinated by Mercy Housing California and Hope Solutions, while property management is provided by Mercy Housing Management Group. The project’s architect was PYATOK architecture + urban design, while its general contractor was Nibbi Brothers General Contractors.
Executive Director of CHDC Don Gilmore said, “Revitalizing neighborhoods where there are investment challenges is crucial to making a positive impact for stable, affordable housing for individuals, families, and seniors in the Richmond community.” He added that this project represents a continued effort with CHDC and Mercy Housing “to address real concerns and to improve the lives of many individuals and families so they can thrive. We’re proud of that.”
Funding for the project originated from a variety of sources, including the City of Richmond, Contra Costa County, JP Morgan Chase, Enterprise Bank, Bettye Poetz Ferguson Foundation, California Department of Housing and Community Development, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Richmond Housing Authority and the Contra Costa Housing Authority.
“The Hacienda Heights we see today is a testament to our partnership’s tenacity, and to all partners’ commitment to rebuilding a community where seniors can truly thrive,” said Doug Shoemaker, president of Mercy Housing California.
Hacienda Heights, located on the corner of Marina Way and Barrett Ave. in Richmond, is currently accepting applications. Learn more here.
