The City of San Diego is looking for a buyer to transform a Downtown building into a haven for affordable housing, as per an announcement on Friday. A Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued targeting the renovation of the building located at 1401 Imperial Ave, the site of the city's Homelessness Response Center (HRC). According to the city's official release, the selected buyer will be expected to keep the homes at low-cost rents for at least 55 years.
"Housing ends homelessness, and the best resource we can offer to people experiencing homelessness is a home they can afford," Mayor Todd Gloria said, emphasizing the enduring need to swiftly address the city's homelessness through permanent housing solutions. The conversion is intended to provide respite for low to moderate-income individuals and families needing affordable housing options. Commercial spaces may also feature on the ground floor to complement the residential component, adding a potential economic boost to the East Village neighborhood.
The Councilmember for the area, Stephen Whitburn, lauded Mayor Gloria for his quick action, stating, "Converting a homelessness center into a housing site is emblematic of the advances we are making on our city’s biggest challenges. These affordable homes will be a welcome addition to East Village and will support San Diegans who have struggled with the cost of housing." Whitburn's remarks reflect a consensus that the project will not just aid in homelessness but also enrich the community.
Prospective buyers must demonstrate their capacity to run affordable housing developments backed by strong financials and viable design and construction plans. Economic Development Director Christina Bibler pointed out, "With our sustained housing crisis, creating additional affordable housing units on underutilized, City-owned property is our highest priority." The city aims to expedite the process – with the help of incentives related to a faster review for 100% affordable housing developments – and developers have until May 1, to submit their proposals.
