Nonprofit Eden Housing is bringing multiple generations together under one roof at its Mesa Terrace development in San Jose, California.
The 46-unit affordable housing development has 23 units set aside for transition-age youths (TAY). The remainder of the units have a preference for seniors, with units suitable for larger multigenerational families.
The inception of the development stemmed from an intergenerational vision for the city-owned land. Mesa Terrace also marks Eden Housing’s first development for the TAY population. In Santa Clara County, where the development is located, youth homelessness is a serious issue, with over 750 homeless youths identified in the 2023 Point in Time count.
“This group faces heightened vulnerability, as many of them are aging out of the foster care system and continue to grapple with similar social and economic challenges. Some are transitioning out of homelessness and might not receive priority for conventional permanent affordable housing,” says Andrea Osgood, chief of real estate development at Eden Housing. “Dedicated housing for the TAY is relatively scarce compared to other forms of supportive housing, so the addition of new units can yield a significant impact.”
The development serves residents earning between 20% and 80% of the area median income. The County of Santa Clara Housing Authority awarded project-based vouchers for the TAY units, which are fully furnished.
Designed by PYATOK, the building incorporates passive design features. Each floor is distinguished by a different color, which facilitates easier navigation, especially for the senior residents. Amenities include community rooms, a laundry facility, a patio equipped with grills, package lockers, and laptops that can be rented.
In addition, residents have access to an array of on-site services, including a community gardening initiative, visits from local food pantries, and various Eden-sponsored programs. Home First is the supportive services provider for the TAY residents, while Eden Housing Residents Services serves the remaining senior and family residents. In addition, The John Stewart Co. is the on-site property manager.
“Mesa Terrace stands out as one of the initial projects in Santa Clara County that blends TAY and senior residents, fostering a distinctive intergenerational community,” says Osgood. “According to reports from on-site personnel, this approach has proven successful thus far. Several TAY and senior residents have established strong relationships, with some TAY individuals regarding the seniors as mentors or sources of support.”
The $34.7 million development, which was completed in February, had a robust capital stack, including low-income housing tax credit equity through investor Wells Fargo, a permanent loan from California Community Reinvestment Corp., and financing from the city of San Jose and Santa Clara County.
