Little Italy's skyline has a fresh addition with the opening of Kettner Crossing, a 64-unit affordable housing complex designed for seniors on a fixed income. According to the County of San Diego, the development, which stands at eight stories and is located at 1590 Kettner Blvd., was inaugurated ahead of the holiday season, giving local seniors a reason to celebrate.
The housing initiative targets seniors 62 and over earning between 30 percent and 50 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), providing a range of living options such as six studios, three two-bedroom, and 55 one-bedroom units; the project appears to be an effort to temper the chronic stress that originates from the steep housing market, especially on older populations who are grappling with the constraints of retirement incomes. Constructed on what was once surplus County property, Kettner Crossing boasts amenities including a community room on the eighth floor with sweeping views of the North San Diego Bay. Additionally, it features a BBQ area, onsite laundry facilities, a resident services office, bicycle storage, and parking solutions.
A collaboration between the BRIDGE Housing Corporation and Holland Partners made the construction of Kettner Crossing possible on a challenging zero lot line, with a very close 20-inch distance from an adjacent parking structure. The project didn't skimp on views or comforts for residents, who can now enjoy a panoramic vista from the rooftop deck, as reported by the County of San Diego.
Favorably situated for those without cars, Kettner Crossing is a short stroll from the San Diego Trolley line and just two blocks from a Coaster station, not to mention being in walking distance to amenities such as Waterfront Park, a variety of dining options, and the weekly farmers market a setup that could encourage the aging demographic to engage more with the community, thereby possibly enriching their social life and overall wellbeing. The County has invested over $334 million in affordable housing since 2017, leveraging land and funding sources, including the Innovative Housing Trust Fund, to generate more than 3,100 homes, with an additional 2,800 projected to be built.
