Amcal Work Force Project Supplants Old Hotel

BAKERSFIELD, CA-Amcal Multi-Housing of Agoura Hills is planning to unveil a new work force apartment complex that will replace a rundown hotel in this city. The new complex, called the Santa Fe, will be a mixed-use project including nearly 4,000 square feet of retail space and will be part of the revitalization of Union Avenue. Amcal plans a grand opening for the complex on March 7.

Designed by the Vincent Co., the Santa Fe is Amcal's first work force housing development in Kern County. It will feature 56 units a swimming pool and a 2,034-square-foot community clubhouse.

Amcal CEO Percy Vaz commented, "By replacing a dilapidated property with a vibrant mixed-use development, Santa Fe is poised to change the landscape of this neighborhood.”

Located at 701 Union Ave., the Santa Fe is a short distance from the Golden Empire Transit District bus route, Lowell Park, McKinley Elementary School, Bakersfield Community Health Clinic, markets and pharmacies. Tenants will have access to a variety of free services, including educational classes courtesy of LifeSteps, a non-profit provider of social services for residents of work force housing in California.

Amcal notes that, according to 2000 US Census Bureau data, 20.5% of Kern County residents live below the poverty line. "Families paying more than 30% of their gross income for housing are cost-burdened and often have difficulty meeting other important financial obligations. Among families who rent, 49% spent 30% or more of their household income on rent," the company says.

Units at Santa Fe are reserved for families who earn 60% or less of the Area Median Income. Fifteen units are dedicated to households earning 60% AMI, while 28 units are reserved for families earning 50% AMI, and six units each are reserved for families earning 40% AMI and 30% AMI. One unit will be reserved for the onsite manager. Monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment starts at $324.

Amcal and its non-profit partner Las Palmas Foundation financed the project with over $7.13 million in 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. Santa Fe is financed by California Bank & Trust, California Community Reinvestment Corp., and public funds from the City of Bakersfield Redevelopment Agency. Amcal General Contractors was the general contractor on the development and completed the community on a fast-track schedule of 12 months, and within budget.