Mayor Kevin Faulconer and other officials were among dozens who gathered Tuesday to celebrate the groundbreaking of a 14-story affordable housing project being built by Father Joe’s Villages in downtown San Diego.
The 407-unit high-rise on the corner of 14th and Commercial streets is Father Joe’s most ambitious project to date and will focus on serving people who’ve experienced homelessness. Residents will have access to healthcare and mental health services.
“Right off the bat, it’s going to take around 550 people off the streets,” said Deacon Jim Vargas, Father Joe’s president and CEO. “It’s for seniors, veterans, disable (and) families.”
The project is expected to be completed in about two years and has a $145-million price tag. It will be paid for with funds from the city, state and private donors. The development has received some push back from the community, but Vargas and other officials are confident it will be a success.
“We’re helping people off the streets and the community is getting healthier economic and otherwise — so it’s a win-win all around,” Vargas said.
If the building opened today, rents would range from $600 to $1,200 dollars for one- and two-bedroom units. However, the rents will likely increase by the time the project is completed, according to Father Joe’s.
