Alameda Celebrates Grand Opening of Affordable Housing Landmarks at Historic Naval Station Site
The Housing Authority of the City of Alameda (AHA) has marked a significant milestone in its mission to provide affordable housing to the underserved communities of Alameda. A festive event welcomed the inauguration of Estuary I and Linnet Corner, the first tangible results of the North Housing Master Plan, which ambitiously aims to erect over 500 affordable rental homes.
The project’s historical context enriches its contemporary social impact. Occupying the acreage of the former US Naval Air Station, these residential communities honor the site’s legacy, transforming it into a sanctuary for those in need. Estuary I and Linnet Corner began construction in 2024 and have since reached significant completion milestones. Their opening introduces 109 units of secure, affordable housing, immediately enhancing the lives of Alameda’s low-income populations, including the elderly, veterans, and previously homeless individuals.
Estuary I distinguishes itself as Alameda’s inaugural 100% permanent supportive housing establishment, already at full occupancy. In parallel, Linnet Corner is actively leasing, prioritizing senior citizens and offering dedicated residences for senior military veterans with disabilities. These operational successes amplify the community-centric efforts of the AHA, envisioning a future where housing insecurity is a relic of the past.
The financial infrastructure supporting these projects exemplifies robust collaboration across public and private spheres. Kerry Deichen from Bank of America N.A., a major funder, lauds the transformative journey of the former Naval Air Station, “It’s so exciting to be part of the incredible transformation of the former Naval Air Station into much needed affordable housing and supportive services for working families, seniors and formerly homeless individuals.” The list of collaborators is extensive, with funding woven through a mix of federal, state, and private organizations, united in their resolve to address the urgent housing needs within the East Bay region.
Executive Director Vanessa Cooper of the AHA celebrates the fruition of over a decade’s dedication, “The Housing Authority is excited to open the first two properties at North Housing after ten plus years of commitment to provide urgently needed housing for low-income populations that include people with disabilities, previously homeless, military veterans, and seniors.” A testament to their commitment, AHA has committed $8.6 million of its own capital and has offered substantial Project Based Vouchers to catalyze the project.
The confluence of design expertise from HKIT Architects and execution by J.H. Fitzmaurice General Contractor, along with the consistent backing from numerous financial institutions and government programs, manifests a future vision of Alameda where inclusive, affordable housing is not just an aspiration but a reality. It’s a significant leap forward in ensuring that the community’s most vulnerable members have a place to call home, and it stands as a model of impactful collaboration and commitment to social well-being.