Housing Authority of Eureka Unveils Ambitious Plan to Expand Affordable Housing Options

Housing Authority of Eureka Unveils Ambitious Plan to Expand Affordable Housing OptionsPhoto byWiktor KarkochaonUnsplash

The Housing Authority of the City of Eureka (HACE) is embarking on a transformative journey to enhance the availability of affordable housing in Eureka. With plans to introduce over 150 new public housing units and redevelop nearly 200 existing units over the next ten years, HACE is poised to make a significant impact on the local housing landscape.

Founded in the early 1950s, many of the current public housing units are in need of substantial repairs and capital investment. To address this issue, HACE is strategizing to transition its properties to a Section 8 platform, a move expected to bring more stable and increased revenue to the properties. This will enable the housing authority to upgrade and expand existing sites, providing better living conditions for residents.

The initial phase of this ambitious plan will focus on the “25–1 Site” on Burrill Street, adjacent to the Eureka Winco. This phase will involve the construction of 44 new housing units while displacing only eight households, demonstrating HACE’s commitment to minimizing disruptions for current residents. The housing authority is dedicated to assisting tenants with relocation, offering support for transfers between units or finding private rentals with voucher assistance.

Community input is crucial to the success of this endeavor, and HACE is inviting the public to participate in a virtual community meeting on Wednesday, March 6 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. The meeting will provide an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on design options, including specific features or amenities they would like to see in the upgraded facilities. HACE will then proceed with design review and entitlements with the City of Eureka and collaborate with HUD to secure financing for the project.

Cheryl Churchill, Executive Director of HACE, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Our goal is to rehabilitate units that are newer and closer to full density at their individual sites, considering what local zoning will allow, and redevelop sites that are underutilized, bringing more and newer affordable housing to Eureka.”

Churchill emphasized the importance of addressing the housing needs of the community, noting, “We know our community needs more housing at all income levels, so we’re continuing to do what we do best, and filling our role of serving the low-income households here.”

The repositioning plan represents a significant step forward in addressing the housing challenges faced by Eureka residents. By investing in the redevelopment and expansion of affordable housing, HACE is working towards ensuring that all residents have access to safe, affordable, and quality housing options.