Santa Ana Pacific Partners – a joint venture partnership between The Pacific Companies and Jamboree – is developing First Point, a 522-unit affordable housing community on East First Street, conveniently located between the 5 and 55 freeways. Special attention is being given to match the project’s income requirements with the income levels of the surrounding residents who are severely rent-burdened and experiencing overcrowding.
According to the City of Santa Ana’s housing element, 58% of its renters pay more than 30% of their income to rent. These conditions lead to a number of hardships for the households and their families, including insufficient income to afford other necessities such as food and health care. The city council identified this corridor in its housing element years ago and missing from this element has been affordable housing.
As part of a master-planned development, First Point is designed for families who earn between 50% and 60% of the area median income (AMI) – $41,550 to $99,720 based on household size. The development will feature 10,000 square feet of leasable commercial space available for local business and the surrounding community.
What’s the latest?
In June 2018, the Santa Ana Planning Commission approved the project as part of the City’s ongoing commitment to provide workforce housing for its residents. Over the last year, project financing has been secured, city permits have been pulled, and grading and demolition have been done. Construction is underway, with the foundation being poured by early October 2019.
Additionally, the joint venture partners have worked with city staff to create a parking management plan. The City of Santa Ana has a number of policies that support a reduction in onsite parking. These include policies related to the goals of increasing the use of public transit, limiting increases in vehicular traffic, improving air quality, limiting fuel consumption, and improving conditions for pedestrians in the areas.