The City of San Antonio has marked a milestone in affordable housing with the completion of Arbors at West Avenue, the first rental rehabilitation project finished under the 2022 Affordable Housing Bond. This development by Prospera Housing Community Services, alongside Bexar County and the City, introduces 234 high-quality rental units designed to be accessible to households with incomes at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Ron Nirenberg highlighted the significance of the project: "Arbors at West Ave. is more than bricks and mortar—it’s about rehabilitating opportunity, dignity, and hope," as reported by the city's official website. The units, which are the memorials of an electoral mandate for change, are priced at various AMI levels, with 17 at 30% AMI, 124 at 50% AMI, 60 at 60% AMI, and 33 at 80% AMI. They serve as a testament to the city's commitment to affordable housing.
Combining new builds with revitalized existing structures, Arbors at West Avenue offers much more than shelter. Residents at 3747 West Avenue in District 1 and Bexar County Precinct 2 can access onsite amenities such as a community center, clubhouse, and pool, as well as resident services including employment support and afterschool programs. District 1 Councilmember Dr. Sukh Kaur expressed pride in the district's direct approach to housing issues, stating in a statement released by the City of San Antonio, "Today, we’re not just talking about the need for affordable housing, we’re delivering it."
With funding that includes a $2 million slice from the Affordable Housing Bond and diverse contributions from federal and county programs, the $55.4 million project exemplifies strategic urban development. Veronica Garica, Director of the Neighborhood and Housing Services Department, told of the involvement of a 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which brought over $22 million in equity into the project. Thanks to these investments, Arbors at West Avenue sets new precedents for affordable housing in the city.
Having now committed over $115 million to create or preserve more than 4,100 homes across the city, the Affordable Housing Bond continues to make strides toward accessible living near jobs, schools, and transit. As more units become available to the public, the opening of Arbors at West Avenue toes the line of public and private sector collaboration, giving shape and form to San Antonio's dedication to equitable urban growth and the ideal that a roof over your head should fall within everyone’s reach.
