Construction begins on affordable modular housing for Veterans and Foster Youth in Soquel
CAPITOLA, Calif. (KION-TV) - One of the first modular construction projects for multi families in Santa Cruz County is being built to help those experiencing homelessness.
If you’re traveling around 7th and Brommer to Park Ave. expect traffic delays.
The modular units are being transported from September 19th through the 24th.
There are a total of 36 homes designed for homeless veterans, families and youth transitioning out of foster care.
Crews are transporting modular homes to Soquel as part of the Home-key project.
These pre-assembled units will soon be installed to provide housing for those in need.
"I got here about a year and six months, in a Ford Taurus and started working," Ignacio Ramos from Santa Cruz said. Going to ask for labor work at home depot, knocking on doors to clean yards, recycling at night, it's very hard, very difficult."
"We will have 17 units for homeless veterans, four units for families with children who are experiencing homelessness, as well as 16 units for youth transitioning out of foster care," Iman Novin president and CEO of Novin development said.
Residents in the Soquel area will start to see these homes being transported and constructed.
The units are set to open at Park Ave. in Soquel by April 1st 2025, designated for low income residents.
"Rents are going to be extremely low income, so we're talking about 20% to 30% of area median income and no more," Iman said. "Rents that are $300 or $400 a month, this will be very, very affordable."
Ignacio Ramos has been looking for housing for he and his children during this housing crisis.
"When my children are with me, you know they have a stable spot at the current time I having either my sister help me out or if I can afford it rent hotels rooms," Ramos said.
Ramos has a trailer which has been cited for parking, making it difficult for him to stay in Santa Cruz county.
"It's very difficult for us to pay a citation of $50 for parking and you go and try to work at, you know, $20 an hour in labor work, we get to keep to 65 dollars because we got to pay the citation," Ramos said. "It's hard to make decisions like that."
Iman from Novin Development tells us, about the selection process, who may move into these units.
"Individuals who are interested in renting a unit at Park Haven Plaza can work through the county," Iman said. "All units will come through the coordinated entry system."
Novin Construction anticipates welcoming tenants by early 2025.
