The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has announced $4.8 million in funding to support five projects aimed at accelerating home construction in the San Diego area. This funding will help local governments, developers, and other organizations streamline housing production, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.
Mayor Todd Gloria expressed gratitude for the funding, highlighting its importance in addressing the region’s housing crisis. “This funding will help us build on our ongoing efforts to produce more homes, meet climate goals, and engage the community on this critical issue,” Gloria said.
Where the Funding Will Go
The City Planning Department has outlined five initiatives that will benefit from the SANDAG funding:
1. Affordable Homes Development Impact Fee Assistance Pilot Program
This program will allocate $2.5 million to assist in covering Development Impact Fees for affordable housing projects. Homes located near public transportation and job centers will be prioritized, making it easier to build affordable housing where it’s needed most.
2. Affordable Home Development Master Plan
A total of $650,000 will be used to create a plan for utilizing city-owned land for housing. The plan will focus on making homes available for people across all income levels and ensuring access to transit and amenities.
3. Mid-City Communities Plan Update
This project will receive $650,000 to update the vision for land use, transportation, urban design, and community resources in the Mid-City area. The plan will guide long-term development while considering natural and cultural resources.
4. Inclusive Public Engagement Guide
With $500,000, the city will develop a framework for involving communities in planning and decision-making. This guide aims to ensure public input is considered in future projects and policies.
5. Missing Middle Housing Design Standards
Another $500,000 will fund the development of design standards for smaller-scale housing options, such as townhomes, triplexes, and fourplexes. These guidelines will provide practical examples to support the construction of more diverse housing types.
Supporting New Homes for All
Heidi Vonblum, Director of the City Planning Department, emphasized the importance of the funding, stating, “We are committed to finding ways to speed up the construction of homes across San Diego. This funding helps us plan effectively for housing that families can afford in areas with good transit and essential public resources.”
Read: Implications of the Realtor Settlement for San Diego Home Sellers and Buyers
Conclusion
SANDAG’s investment highlights the growing urgency to address San Diego’s housing challenges. By focusing on affordable options, community engagement, and strategic planning, these programs aim to make a meaningful impact in creating more housing opportunities for the region’s residents.
