San Diego Project Brightens Neighborhood

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Kalos, meaning “beautiful and all that is good” in Greek, is true to its definition.

The 83-unit development, which serves a mix of seniors, families, and nonsenior individuals, has replaced a deteriorated site with dilapidated buildings in San Diego.

Developed by nonprofit Community HousingWorks, Kalos earned Platinum certification under the LEED for Homes Midrise Pilot.

A photovoltaic system provides virtually 100 percent of common-area electricity in combination with all-LED exterior lighting. A solar domestic hot-water system on the roof offsets 70 percent of residents’ water- and space-heating costs. A cool roof, breezeways, and good insulation offset the solar heat gain, eliminating the need for air-conditioning. And it uses 56 percent less water than a typical residential community, through sustainable landscaping, efficient irrigation, and low-flow plumbing features.

After failing to receive 9 percent low-­income housing tax credits, the team decided to move forward with 4 percent credits and bonds, which Union Bank purchased.

The $26.8 million project also received funding from the San Diego Housing Commission and the Redevelopment Agency of San Diego. In addition, it ­received utility company rebates and ­incentives.

About the Author

Christine Serlin

Christine Serlin is an editor for Affordable Housing Finance and Multifamily Executive. She has covered the affordable housing industry since 2001. Before that, she worked at several daily newspapers, including the Contra Costa Times and the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Connect with Christine at cserlin@questex.com or follow her on Twitter @ChristineSerlin.

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