As part of the City of San Diego’s ongoing commitment to serve the most vulnerable residents experiencing or at risk of homelessness, on May 7, Mayor Todd Gloria and community partners gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the new affordable housing community, Jacaranda on 9th. Developed by Community HousingWorks (CHW), this location brings 87 affordable homes to the Cortez Hill Neighborhood. 

The development is supported by the City’s Bridge to Home program, which provides critical gap financing to help make affordable housing projects possible, as these projects typically require a combination of funding sources, including from local, state and federal programs. 

“We’re using tools like our Bridge to Home program to turn an aging property into stable, long-term housing for San Diegans,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “These new homes serve transitional-aged youth, extremely low-income seniors, and people rebuilding their lives, with on-site support services that support their path to stability.” 

The project site was previously home to a 48-unit hotel built in 1970, later converted into transitional housing in 2000. As the property’s condition declined, the San Diego City Council approved its acquisition by CHW, paving the way for its redevelopment into modern, long-term affordable housing. 

“These homes are an excellent example of how the City is helping people end their homelessness and move into housing,” said Councilmember Stephen Whitburn, who represents Cortez Hill. “I happen to live right down the street from this affordable community, and the residents have already proven to be great neighbors.” 

The development includes a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments and will remain affordable for households earning up to 25% of the area median income for at least 55 years. 

Fourteen of the homes are designated as Permanent Supportive Housing units for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. Some of the populations most at risk of being unhoused include Transitional Aged Youth and Extremely Low-Income Seniors. These residents will have access to on-site supportive services provided by PATH, helping them maintain housing stability and improve their quality of life.  

The San Diego Housing Commission is providing project-based vouchers for all 87 homes, ensuring long-term rental assistance for residents. These vouchers are tied to the property itself, allowing eligible households to access stable housing with rents ranging from $775 to $930, depending on unit size and income. 

“Jacaranda on 9th shows what’s possible when we rethink how existing properties can serve our community,” said Economic Development Director Christina Bibler. “By converting a worn, outdated hotel into safe, stable, affordable homes, we’re ensuring that people who have experienced or are at risk of homelessness have a dignified place to rebuild their lives. This project reflects the City’s commitment to transforming challenges into opportunities and creating housing that truly meets the needs of San Diegans.” 

Jacaranda on 9th features a five-story building with a central courtyard and a variety of amenities designed to support residents and foster community. These include a computer lab, community and meeting rooms, a children’s play area, outdoor barbecue spaces, bike storage, laundry facilities and an on-site leasing office. Its location near public transit and neighborhood amenities enhances accessibility for residents. 

The development received $1.4 million in Bridge to Home funding. Since the Mayor launched the City’s Bridge to Home program in 2021, 561 affordable homes have been built, with 1,978 more under construction or in the process of financing. Jacaranda on 9th adds to this growing momentum, allowing San Diego residents to live in safe, stable and private housing.