In Daly City, the promise of increased affordable housing is swiftly becoming a reality, with the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors passing a substantial $14 million loan. This unanimous decision is set to confidently propel the construction of the Midway Village housing project's eagerly awaited second phase. “This is probably, in terms of housing in San Mateo County, one of the most transformative projects ever,” Board Vice President David Canepa told San Mateo County's official website.
The project—near the historic Cow Palace in Daly City's Bayshore neighborhood—will include on-site childcare, a community garden, and several outdoor recreation areas. These additions aim to greatly enhance the quality of life amongst its residents, providing support services tailored specifically for former foster youth, housing for other individuals and families, and those who have previously experienced homelessness.
With 147 units completed in May this year, Midway Village's Phase 1 introduced a new parking facility and housing units. Existing residents of the original Midway Village, built in the mid-1970s as affordable housing, were given the right to first pick this updated housing without the need to relocate during construction.
The latest injection of funds is a critical step forward for Phase 2, which includes plans for 111 additional units, ranging from studios to four-bedroom apartments. Two more units will also be created to accommodate the on-site managers comfortably. “We applaud the County of San Mateo for its critical commitment to the final piece of financing for Midway Village Phase 2, which will bring 111 affordable homes for families and a new child care center to Daly City,” Matthew O. Franklin, president and CEO of MidPen Housing, commented on the county's website.
To qualify for residency, applicants must meet certain income criteria, generally earning between 15 and 60 percent of the Area Median Income. Provisioning has also been made within this development, where 29 units are to be set aside for clients of the County’s Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, offering crucial support services like case management and counseling. Moreover, the future phases of the project look to expand upon the affordable housing stock with added homeownership opportunities and the creation of a substantial public park operated by the City of Daly City. “This field is going to provide access to a community that does not have a field, whether it’s soccer, whether its football.” Canepa said via the San Mateo County news, anticipating the additional recreational possibilities for the neighborhood.
