A JV of Community HousingWorks and San Diego LGBT Community Center will break ground tomorrow on San Diego's first LGBT, mixed-income senior apartment community. The North Park project, which includes 76 units, is on the northwest corner of Texas Street and Howard Avenue. The City of San Diego and San Diego Housing Commission are contributing $7M for the $27M project, which takes advantage of an affordable housing density bonus that requires affordable housing to be mixed with market-rate units, San Diego Metro reports.

The project provides 23 units restricted to very low-income households (50% or less of the county’s median income). The project will be open to all seniors who qualify by age and income, but creates a welcoming and supportive environment for LGBT seniors.

CHW president/CEO Sue Reynolds explains this project resulted from a LGBT senior needs assessment, which revealed LGBT seniors’ greatest concerns include fears of increasing social isolation; lack of access to culturally competent health and social services; financial issues; and lack of access to safe, affordable and affirming housing options. The LGBTCC senior services' staff plans to offer programming and services that promote an active lifestyle for all residents.

This transit-oriented project was endorsed by the MOVE Alliance, which recognizes projects that provide mobility options. The development’s design complements existing residential uses on the opposite side of the street and includes a large open plaza at the northeast corner of Texas and Howard streets to enhance the pedestrian experience. This location is just steps to the new MTS Mid-City Rapid Bus transit center, and within the North Park-Mid-City Regional Bike Corridor under development. The new bike path passes by the project’s entrance on Howard. [SDM]