I am proud to support the collaborative effort between National CORE, the City of San Marcos, and the County of San Diego in completing the reconstruction of the Villa Serena affordable housing community.
This project represents a significant investment in safe and affordable housing for our residents and provides a platform for neighborhood stabilization.
Completing the first phase of this two-phase transformation is a momentous occasion, and I am thrilled to see its positive impact on the Richmar community. The 85 newly reconstructed apartment homes feature new amenities and one of the nation's highest levels of energy-efficient design, providing individuals and families earning less than 60% of the area median income with a beautiful place to call home.
National CORE has been committed to improving the quality of living in San Marcos for over 20 years, including creating five developments in San Marcos and four in the Richmar neighborhood. The revitalization of the Richmar neighborhood has been significant since the opening of the National CORE's Paseo del Oro housing complex in 2004, and city efforts to increase walkability have contributed to San Marcos having some of the lowest crime rates in the county.
I am proud to have played a role in this project, and I look forward to completing the second phase of the reconstruction, which will replace 136 apartments with 148 state-of-the-art homes. Completing this project will provide even more individuals and families with safe and affordable housing, contributing to the continued growth and revitalization of the Richmar community.
During my four years on the Board of Supervisors, we have created more than 500 affordable housing units in North County. However, we know we need more opportunities like Villa Serena to ensure everyone has access to safe and secure housing, regardless of their income level. This project represents the County's and communities' investment in safe and affordable housing that is so desperately needed in San Diego.
I am also happy to hear that the Hope through Housing Foundation provides direct services to residents on-site through the new community center. These services focus on helping children and teens achieve success, improving families' financial well-being, and promoting health and wellness for residents of all ages. The partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of San Marcos is fantastic and will allow children and teens access to local after-school programming, a vital component.
The reconstruction of Villa Serena is a success story that brings new resources to the Richmar community and ultimately makes it a better place to raise a family. I am proud to support this collaborative effort and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of many San Diegans.