Santa Monica, California: The Arroyo Provides Affordable and Sustainable Housing

November 2, 2021  

Santa Monica, California: The Arroyo Provides Affordable and Sustainable Housing

HUD User publishes a series of case studies based on federal, state, and local strategies that increase affordable housing opportunities and support sustainable community development. The projects and community development efforts featured in these reports have demonstrated innovation through a multitude of partnerships and initiatives.

In the midst of both an affordable housing shortage and a climate crisis, the city of Santa Monica, California, has taken steps to develop housing projects that are affordable and carbon neutral. Developed in 2019 by Community Corporation of Santa Monica, the Arroyo provides 64 affordable apartments in a 5-story building that is located within walking distance of shops, restaurants, transit, and parks, as well as a high school, library, community center, and the city's beach and pier. The building also has two community rooms available for fitness sessions, financial literacy workshops, computer classes, and tutoring. Sustainable design elements such as open-air corridors for ventilation, solar water heating panels, window shades, and a high-albedo roof enabled the Arroyo to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Visit HUD User's Case Studies page to learn more about affordable housing and to view other examples of sustainable development around the nation.

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