In a move that addresses the critical shortage of affordable housing in Santa Clara County, groundbreaking ceremonies were held for Distel Circle, prized as Los Altos' inaugural 100% affordable housing community. In collaboration with EAH Housing and Santa Clara County, this project promises to make strides in providing financial relief for individuals and families whose incomes range from 30% to 80% of the area median income (AMI).
According to the Santa Clara County news release, the housing complex, situated at 330 Distel Circle, will introduce 90 affordable units into the market, featuring several that are earmarked as permanent supportive housing—a crucial initiative aimed at tackling homelessness and housing instability. Despite the lot being just half a block away from the bustling El Camino Real corridor, the real estate will prioritize comfortable living and sustainability.
"Distel Circle is a powerful example of what’s possible when public commitment meets community need," Laura Hall, President and CEO of EAH Housing, mentioned in a statement obtained by the Santa Clara County publication. The project's funding mainly flows from the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and State Credit equity, coupled with a substantial $25 million from the County itself, leveraging a significant chunk of which was allocated from the voter-backed $950 million Measure A Affordable Housing Bond of 2016.
True to its nature of advocating and being a change-maker for affordable living solutions, Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga highlighted the project's symbolic importance. "Los Altos didn’t just say ‘yes’ to affordable housing, it said ‘yes’ to a better, more equitable future," Abe-Koga shared with the publication. With such spirited support, Measure A is exceeding expectations, already forecasted to surpass its initial target of 4,800 new affordable housing units by an encouraging margin.
Designed by KTGY Architects, the development harmonizes with the neighborhood's aesthetic. It consists of a range of apartments, from studios to three-bedroom units, and enviable amenities like a community room and outdoor courtyard. It's engineered to be LEED certified and will feature green construction techniques, including modular construction with a cross-laminated timber podium. With construction chugging full steam, January 2027 is the anticipated ribbon-cutting month.
