EAH Housing has started construction on the first all-affordable housing development in Los Altos, California.
Distel Circle will feature 90 units for individuals and families earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income. Several units will be dedicated as permanent supportive housing to help address homelessness and housing instability in the region.
“Distel Circle is a powerful example of what’s possible when public commitment meets community need,” said Laura Hall, president and CEO of nonprofit EAH Housing. “We’re proud to mark this milestone with our partners, supporters, and neighbors. We thank you for your vision and investment in making affordable housing a reality across the region.”
The development is being built at a time when the average rent is $3,397 in the community, according to RentCafe in July. Located on the western edge of Silicon Valley, Los Altos has been listed as one of the wealthiest suburbs in the Bay Area.
“Los Altos didn’t just say ‘yes’ to affordable housing, it said ‘yes’ to a better, more equitable future,” said Santa Clara County supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga. “Distel Circle is a true reflection of the forward-thinking and collaborative spirit that defines Santa Clara County.”
The $85 million project’s primary funding source is federal and state low-income housing tax credits (LIHTCs). U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance is the LIHTC investor and construction lender. Century Housing is the permanent lender.
Santa Clara County contributed $25 million toward the development, of which $15.9 million came from the $950 million Measure A Affordable Housing Bond that was approved by county voters in 2016, with the balance provided through the county’s No Place Like Home and HOME Investment Partnerships program funds.
Now in its ninth year of implementation, Measure A is on track to exceed its goal of creating 4,800 new affordable housing units by nearly 1,600 units, according to officials.
“By purchasing this property and making it available for development, the county helped lay the foundation for the city’s first affordable housing project,” said Consuelo Hernández, deputy county executive. “This milestone demonstrates the power of partnership and our commitment to turning vision into real homes for the community.”
Designed by KTGY, the community will include a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with amenities such as a community room, an outdoor courtyard, and dedicated on-site services. It is designed to meet LEED sustainability certification standards and will feature modular construction with a cross-laminated timber podium, allowing for innovative and environmentally responsible construction methods.