In a substantial move to tackle the ongoing housing crisis, Santa Clara's County Board of Supervisors has approved a hefty $47.4 million in funding destined for six affordable housing developments. This decision earmarks a significant step forward in the County's aggressive plan to create 4,800 new affordable rental units, a commitment made possible by the $950 million Measure A Affordable Housing Bond passed by voters in 2016, according to official news released by Santa Clara County.
These developments promise residences for up to 2,762 people across projects in Palo Alto, Mountain View, and San José. Scoring the lion's share, a whopping $36.1 million comes directly from Measure A funds, with the board also dipping into $7.3 million from No Place Like Home—state funds aiming to build permanent supportive housing for the mentally ill or homeless. An additional $4 million is sourced from county funds designated for the intellectually or developmentally disabled, a recent statement obtained by Santa Clara County News highlighted.
County Executive James R. Williams praised the collective efforts that have pushed the housing initiative forward. "The County of Santa Clara is more than delivering on the affordable housing development goals promised with Measure A, thanks to the hard work of County staff and our many partners, including cities, the state, developers, and community-based organizations," Williams declared in a statement echoed by the county's news release, stressing the need for resources to continue this trajectory of providing secure, dignified housing for all.
The six projects granted funding will be a mix of permanent supportive housing for the homeless, rapid rehousing, and affordable housing for those earning 30% to 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Residents in desperate need of a roof, having completed 1,796 units already, the county is nearing its goal, with a total of 4,749 units funded, as the same news release notes.
Highlighting the eclectic mix, the El Camino Real Affordable Housing Development in the heart of Palo Alto stands out due to its strategic location, promising opportunities for residents in a community flush with jobs, top-tier schools, and public transit. "We are thrilled about this project and the many others that will provide affordable housing for thousands of people," said Consuelo Hernandez, Director of the County's Office of Supportive Housing.
As Santa Clara County edges closer to its housing goals, the impact of this strategic financial push might resonate well into the future, potentially transforming the regional landscape into a more equitable space for its dwellers. More details regarding Measure A and the affordable housing projects can be gleaned from the Office of Supportive Housing's Measure A webpage.
