Hercules, Calif. – The City of Hercules invites residents to attend an upcoming Community Open House on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to noon in the City Council Chamber (111 Civic Drive) to learn more about the Bayline Project, Sycamore Crossing Former Hotel Site and Victoria Green — three affordable housing proposals under consideration for up to $5 million in Housing Asset Funding.
The projects under consideration include the Bayline Project by Community HousingWorks, an 83-unit affordable housing development on Bayfront Boulevard and the Sycamore Crossing Former Hotel by SiteSatellite Affordable Housing Associates, a proposed 100-unit affordable housing development at the former hotel site within Sycamore Crossing. The third proposed project, Victoria Green by Eden Housing, looks to add 66 new senior housing units while rehabilitating 132 existing affordable housing units.
“This Open House is a valuable opportunity for residents to hear about development proposals and participate in a meaningful conversation about housing in Hercules,” said Interim City Manager Patrick Tang. “We look forward to welcoming the community and listening to their perspectives on this important topic.”
As required by state housing laws, the City’s Housing Element calls for the development of 539 additional low income housing units by 2031. To help meet this need and advance affordable housing opportunities for residents, the City issued a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) seeking qualified development partners for affordable housing projects that align with local housing and community development goals.
This funding opportunity is part of the City's ongoing efforts to address local housing needs and support the development of affordable housing in Hercules. The Hercules City Council has already discussed the submitted proposals, which were evaluated based on factors including affordability, project readiness, financial feasibility and alignment with community goals. During the Open House, residents can listen to presentations from the developers, review project information and ask questions about the three proposals. This includes proposals for new affordable housing developments as well as senior housing and the rehabilitation of existing affordable housing units.
Through the program, the City may prioritize viable affordable housing options that provide senior housing, alternative housing models or developments that utilize housing choice vouchers. State requirements also require that at least 30% of funding assist extremely low-income rental households earning 30% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI), while no more than 20% may assist low-income households earning between 60% and 80% of the AMI. Households with moderate or higher incomes are not eligible for assistance through this program. Funding may support senior housing, as long as no more than 50% of the units funded by the City are designated for seniors.
The City looks forward to welcoming residents to the June 20 Open House as the City continues to expand affordable housing in Hercules. Learn more about each proposal in this staff report and about Hercules’ affordable housing resources on the City’s website.
