SAN DIEGO — Construction has begun on a new affordable housing development in National City.
Elected officials, union leaders, developers and other community members gathered at a groundbreaking Monday morning to recognize the construction of 94 affordable housing units. Union Tower will include 70 units for low-income families and 24 units specifically for veterans experiencing homelessness.
The building is replacing two 16-unit buildings that were part of National City Park Apartments, which has 456 units total. It's set to open in 2026.
The project is a partnership between the San Diego County Building and Construction Trades Council and Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation.
“Union Tower is an investment in National City and a promise to its families," said Carol Kim, SDBTC Family Housing Corporation’s CEO and Chair. “This affordable housing community will deliver much-needed affordable housing, create high quality jobs—both in construction and permanent operations, all while preserving the affordability of the 456-unit National City Park Apartments.
San Diego County's Health and Human Services Agency has invested $3.5 million in Union Tower in addition to allocating 24 vouchers for veterans experiencing homelessness.
“The County of San Diego has invested more than $314 million in affordable housing since 2017 and is all in on its creation and preservation,” said Caroline Smith, interim director of the Health and Human Services Agency.
WATCH RELATED: Affordable housing tenants fight back after corporate landlord issue massive rent hike