80 Affordable Senior Housing Units Planned in Berkeley

January 20, 2025

Building permits have recently been filed for a new five-story affordable housing development at 1708 Harmon Street in South Berkeley's NOBE neighborhood, near the border of North Oakland and Emeryville. The project, spearheaded by the Community Housing Development Corporation (CHDC) of North Richmond, will feature 80 residential units, including a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, with a focus on affordability for low-income residents. The development promises to be a significant addition to the area, addressing the ongoing need for affordable housing in the Bay Area.

The proposed design consists of four stories above a ground-level garage and common amenities. The garage will provide parking for 61 cars, including 26 spaces dedicated to use by the neighboring church, as well as 43 bicycle parking spaces. Residential amenities are planned to include a community room, laundry facilities, and shared common spaces to foster a sense of community among residents.

In terms of affordability, the project will cater to a range of income levels, between 30% and 50% of the AMI (area median income). Additionally, one market-rate unit will be set aside for the on-site manager, ensuring the smooth operation and maintenance of the property.

The site, located on a 1.05-acre parcel bounded by King Street, Harmon Street, Ellis Street, and Alcatraz Avenue, is currently the site of Ephesians Church Of God In Christ. The proposed development would create space for both housing and the existing church, in step with a rising trend in which some religious groups are repurposing land to provide affordable housing.

Kodama Diseno Architects, the designers of the project, have a great deal of experience in the senior housing realm. Their design incorporates materials such as redwood panels, stucco, board-formed concrete, and Hardie plank siding. The design emphasizes sustainability and compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. A key element of the site plan is the creation of a welcoming ground-level plaza that will help integrate the housing with the church and the broader community.

As of now, a timeline for construction and completion has not yet been confirmed. With the rising cost of housing throughout the Bay Area, including South Berkeley, projects like this one play a crucial role in ensuring that residents from all income brackets can access secure and affordable homes in their communities.

Additional coverage and photos here, courtesy of YimbySF