Richmond has secured nearly $43 million in funding for the Metrowalk Phase II affordable housing project from the state’s Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program (AHSC), Mayor Eduardo Martinez announced today.
AHSC, one of many California Climate Investments programs, funds projects that aim to make it easier for residents to walk, bike or use public transit. That’s what the Metrowalk project in Richmond plans to do near the Richmond BART station.
The $43 million in AHSC funding will be used to construct a 150-unit affordable housing project just east of the Richmond BART Station. According to Mayor Martinez, the project “aims to make commuting easier, thereby allowing residents to lead a car-free lifestyle and promoting walkable communities.”
The development will include “seating areas, office space, a computer room, an exercise room, and laundry facilities on each building level,” the mayor added in a statement.
The Richmond BART station will also receive upgrades. Improvements will include “new fare gates, one mile of Class IV bikeway, pedestrian improvements and the completion of the Richmond Wellness Trail, which will connect the BART station to the ferry at the waterfront,” according to Mayor Martinez.
Mayor Martinez credited city staff, local organizations and community members for making this “groundbreaking initiative” possible.
“Expect updates on construction timelines, community meetings to gather your invaluable feedback, and of course, information on how to apply for these new affordable housing units,” the mayor said, adding, “Please stay tuned for more details and thank you for your continued support.”
Metrowalk Phase II builds upon the project’s first phase, which now includes 132 units of housing, the Nevin Avenue walkway, the BART parking garage and retail on the west side of the station.
