Richmond’s $14.5 million project converts Motel 6 into supportive housing for the homeless thanks to Homekey grant
Bay Area – With a transforming project turning an abandoned Motel 6 into a supportive housing facility, Richmond is making major efforts toward reducing homelessness. Thanks to California’s Homekey program, the city has obtained a significant $14.5 million grant that will help to buy and renovate the motel situated on 24th Street. Designed specifically to serve unsheltered people, a population desperately in need of solid housing alternatives, this project will offer 48 supportive homes.
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Part of a statewide initiative to solve the homelessness crisis, the Homekey program aims to rapidly boost the availability of housing for people at immediate risk of homelessness. This money includes $2.4 million for running expenses and $12 million set aside for capital needs. Under Richmond’s proposal, which is run by Novin Development of Walnut Creek, the former Civic Center Motel will be transformed into 48 studio flats with one more unit set aside for an onsite property manager.
Gayle McLaughlin, a council member from District 5, voiced optimism regarding the project’s influence.
“Having these Homekey units of supportive housing will be a big help,” McLaughlin stated, adding that although important, this initiative is only one element of a larger plan to address homelessness in Richmond. The city intends to keep creating more ideas, including small communities, to offer different housing choices.
The office of Governor Gavin Newsom pointed out that Richmond’s project is a component of a bigger effort whereby nine California towns received Homekey funds totaling $130 million this cycle. Reflecting a strong attempt to address the ongoing problem of homelessness in the state, these subsidies are expected to generate 533 permanent supportive homes statewide.
Homekey, which started in 2020, has distributed $3.6 billion to help 259 projects expected to benefit over 172,000 people across California. Governor Newsom also mentioned the state’s satisfaction in supporting local partners who are helping their areas by building desperately needed homes to reduce homelessness.
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Apart from offering a roof over one’s head, permanent supportive housing include necessary services aiming at stability, health, and general well-being. Tenant of the new facility will spend only 30% of their income towards utilities and rent, and will have access to thorough onsite services given by Insight Housing.
Significant renovations including new air conditioning systems, modern furnishings, electrical upgrades, and better toilet facilities are part of the redevelopment plan. The renovations on every unit are expected to cost between $50,000 and $85,000. Security measures and property management will also be enhanced to ensure a safe and stable environment for the residents.
With plans firmly in place, Richmond looks forward to the completion of this project, ready to provide many people a fresh start grounded on community integration and assistance
