California's housing crisis is getting a $63 million boost from the state's Excess Sites Local Government Matching Grants (LGMG), targeting the construction of 975 affordable homes. The Golden State is pushing forward with a plan to churn out around 5,500 housing units on unused state land, a move designed to provide roofs over the heads of an estimated 13,600 people in need.
"Our excess land strategy is part of a comprehensive approach that includes unprecedented resources and greater accountability for communities committed to building their fair share of housing," Governor Gavin Newsom said, per the HCD website. The state's vision of tackling the housing shortage includes making good use of underutilized properties, something Newsom has been vocal about since issuing an executive order in 2019 that pressed for the development of affordable housing in areas with job access, amenities, and convenient transit.
The HCD announced this substantial investment in LGMG aims to match local government contributions and fast-track the construction process. With local partners pitching in over $80 million, the collaboration signifies a potent fusion of state and municipal efforts. A total of $123.5 million in grants have already been allocated to 20 projects through the program, leveraging an impressive $129 million in local funding. As a result, the state inches closer to its ambitious goal to put up 2.5 million new homes by 2030, with a third of them priced for lower-income families.
Among the beneficiaries is MidPen Housing Corporation, which netted $10 million for a 75-unit project in San Francisco. Aimed at households earning 30% to 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI), the development even has an eye out for school and college district employees. In Riverside, Eden Housing, Inc. scored $8.1 million for Mulberry Gardens Family's 150-unit plan, envisioned for families earning between 30% and 60% AMI.
Several projects across California, from Clearlake to Marin County, are set to offer a blend of amenities such as playgrounds, sports facilities, and community gardens. The Related Companies of California, LLC is gearing up to erect Alveare Family Housing and Alveare Senior Housing in Los Angeles, part of a wider 303-unit complex. Meanwhile, in Placerville, Jamboree Housing Corporation with a $10 million grant is embarking on The Clementine, an 83-unit establishment, complete with a community kitchen and nature trail.
For further details on California's strategic housing developments and their impact, concerned readers can pay a visit to HCD's official website.
