San Antonio's steps to tackle housing shortages have resulted in the approval of a new pilot program aimed at building more affordable living spaces. The Casita Incentive Pilot Program, greenlit this week by the City Council, is part of a broader effort funded by the 2022–2027 Affordable Housing Bond, whose goal is to create a supply of affordable housing within the city. According to the City of San Antonio, the plan facilitates the construction of accessory dwelling units, known as casitas, by providing financial incentives to eligible property owners and renters.
As detailed on the City of San Antonio's official website, the Casita Incentive Pilot Program capitalizes on last fall's initiative, the Casita Permit-Ready Plans. These ready-to-go designs trim down the costs and complications traditionally associated with starting building projects from scratch. Veronica Garcia, Director of the Neighborhood and Housing Services Department, said in a statement, "Casitas, also known as ADUs, offer many benefits to our community including creating affordable housing options and helping our loved ones age in place.”
Financial support under the pilot program is divided into two tiers of construction incentives, serving property owners and renters at various income brackets related to the area median income (AMI). Level I offers up to $25,000 in construction incentives with a five-year forgivable loan for renters earning 50% AMI or less or property owners earning 80% AMI or less. Level II increases the assistance to up to $35,000 for a ten-year forgivable loan, targeting renters earning 30% AMI or less and property owners earning 50% AMI or less.
In addition to construction costs, the financial aid extends to cover design fees for the permit-ready plans for those eligible property owners earning 80% AMI or less. Casitas are also eligible for a waiver of most City permit fees. Eligibility criteria and application details for the Casita Incentive Pilot Program are set to be released in late September, offering a new avenue for affordable housing solutions in San Antonio.
