Linc Housing has started construction on Equa, an 81-unit affordable housing development in Los Angeles County’s Avocado Heights neighborhood.
Thirty-four of the new homes are for people who have experienced homelessness, while the remainder are for households earning between 30% and 70% of the area median income.
Named as a tribute the area’s equestrian heritage and Linc’s commitment to helping build a more equitable society, Equa will provide needed housing for this neighborhood near La Puente, California. The six-story building will have 40 one-, 20 two-, and 20 three-bedroom apartments, as well as one three-bedroom manager’s unit.
The complex, which will seek LEED certification, will feature ample community space, including two courtyards, a tot lot, and open space for children of all ages to play. The central community room will include space for the residents to gather, a reading area, and a game room. In addition, landscaping and seating areas provide a welcoming gathering area. Thirteen apartments will be accessible for individuals with mobility or sensory impairments.
“We know the solution to the affordable housing and homelessness issue in Los Angeles is to build more housing,” said Suny Lay Chang, Linc Housing president and COO. “Equa represents another excellent collaboration with Los Angeles County, whose support helped make this new community a reality. We’re working side by side with the county to get as much housing built as quickly as possible. Our vision for Equa is to provide a beautiful and safe environment for individuals and families to thrive. Linc is invested for the long run, and we’ll make sure residents have the support they need to pursue their goals.”
With funding support from the county, the 34 households that have experienced homelessness will receive intensive case management. Supportive services will include mental health and physical health services, employment counseling and job placement, education, substance abuse counseling, money management, assistance in obtaining and maintaining benefits, and referrals to community-based services and resources. In addition, Linc will offer its signature resident services programs, focused on nutrition, exercise, after-school programs, adult education, and community engagement.
Funding for the $46.7 million development comes from a variety of sources, including construction and permanent loans from Union Bank, $5 million from the Los Angeles County Development Authority (No Place Like Home funds), and low-income housing tax credit equity from Raymond James Tax Credit Funds. In a unique partnership with Raymond James, CVS Health has provided funding as part of its commitment to address housing insecurities and promote community health improvement in vulnerable populations. Los Angeles County provided a permit fee waiver as well as rental assistance vouchers for 45 units. The Los Angeles County Department of Health Services will provide funding for the intensive case management.
D33 Design and Planning designed Equa, and National Community Renaissance is the general contractor. Construction of affordable housing has been designated an essential activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the construction team will follow recommended safety protocols to keep the jobsite safe. The development is due to be completed in late 2022. The supportive housing apartments will be filled through referrals from the County of Los Angeles Coordinated Entry System, said officials.
