Costa Mesa, CA, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Officials in Costa Mesa have inaugurated the Avon River Apartments, a permanent supportive housing project converting a former motel into a 76-unit complex for the unhoused. Funded by multiple sources, including state initiatives, this project aims to provide long-term housing solutions and support services to individuals in need. Completion is expected by spring 2024.
Costa Mesa, CA – A significant step forward in addressing homelessness was taken last Thursday when officials held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Avon River Apartments, a new permanent supportive housing project located on Bristol Street near John Wayne Airport. The complex will convert the former Travelodge by Wyndham, a 120-room motel, into a 76-unit housing facility designed specifically for individuals currently unhoused or residing in shelters.
The Avon River Apartments will feature both studio and one-bedroom apartments, with rental rates tailored to meet the individual financial circumstances of tenants. This innovative approach aims to provide long-term supportive housing solutions, offering stability to those in need. Some individuals may reside at the complex for an extended period, while others may transition either back to family living situations or into independent housing.
The project is powered by Project Homekey, a statewide initiative in California aimed at converting existing properties into supportive housing. Local government and nonprofit organizations are collaborating to bring this vision to fruition. Costa Mesa’s Mayor John Stephens highlighted the importance of creating a permanent housing solution like the Avon River Apartments rather than relying on temporary measures to address the homelessness crisis.
Financially, the project is estimated to cost approximately $45.4 million. Funding sources include a $4 million allocation from the Costa Mesa City Council in 2023, a contribution of $3 million from Newport Beach specifically for 12 designated units, and nearly $29 million from Project Homekey funding, facilitated by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris. Additional financial support comes from county leaders, who pledged $6.8 million, alongside nearly $500,000 from CalOptima Health for project completion.
The construction of the Avon River Apartments is in the hands of American Family Housing, a nonprofit developer based in Midway City. Completion is anticipated by spring 2024. Upon moving in, tenants will sign one-year leases and have access to a variety of on-site services. These services will include social engagement, medical care, and workforce training opportunities. Local restaurant Pom & Olive has committed to providing training opportunities for residents, further enhancing the support network available.
Newport Beach’s Mayor Joe Stapleton indicated that combining affordable housing with supportive services is vital for helping individuals rebuild their lives. The Avon River Apartments initiative builds on the success of a previous project where another motel, the Motel 6, was transformed into 88 units of housing for at-risk individuals, seniors, and veterans. There are also plans for a third similar project in Costa Mesa.
In other news within Orange County, a heat advisory is currently in effect, and two At Home store locations in Tustin and Costa Mesa are scheduled to close. Ongoing public safety incidents include a hazmat situation in Corona del Mar and a series of arrests related to various threats. Upcoming community events include the annual Lobster Festival and the launch of new local businesses, as well as recreational activities such as the Reptile Super Show and an exhibition showcasing activism at the Old Orange County Courthouse.
FAQ
- What is the Avon River Apartments project?
- The Avon River Apartments is a new permanent supportive housing project converting a former motel into a 76-unit complex aimed at helping individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Where is the Avon River Apartments located?
- The apartments are located on Bristol Street near John Wayne Airport in Costa Mesa, California.
- Who will benefit from the Avon River Apartments?
- The project is designed for individuals who are unhoused or currently living in shelters, offering both long-term housing and transitional opportunities.
- How much will the Avon River Apartments cost?
- The total estimated cost of the project is around $45.4 million, funded by various sources including the Costa Mesa City Council, Newport Beach, Project Homekey, and local county leaders.
- When is the expected completion date for the project?
- The construction is expected to be completed by spring 2024.
Key Features of Avon River Apartments Project
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Units | 76 units |
| Unit Types | Studio and one-bedroom apartments |
| Project Cost | Approximately $45.4 million |
| Funding Sources | Costa Mesa City Council, Newport Beach, Project Homekey, county leaders, CalOptima Health |
| Expected Completion | Spring 2024 |
| On-Site Services | Social engagement, medical care, workforce training |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Travelodge Conversion
- Wikipedia: Permanent Supportive Housing
- OC Register: 70-Unit Costa Mesa Project Approved
- Google Search: Project Homekey
- KFI AM 640: Costa Mesa Affordable Housing Approved
- Google Scholar: Affordable Housing California
- OC Register: Fairview Developmental Center Redevelopment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California Homelessness Initiatives
- Los Angeles Times: Mesa Motel Conversion
- Google News: Supportive Housing Projects
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