City of Santa Cruz Earns ProHousing Designation
Santa Cruz, California [August 4, 2023]- The City of Santa Cruz is thrilled to announce that the State Department of Housing and Community Development has honored the City of Santa Cruz with the prestigious Prohousing designation. "This significant recognition grants Santa Cruz priority consideration for various housing funding programs administered by the State Department of Housing and Community Development. The City's steadfast commitment to addressing housing needs and fostering affordable housing initiatives has led to this well-deserved partnership," said Director of Planning and Community Development, Lee Butler.
“The Prohousing designation not only recognizes [Santa Cruz’s] achievements but also serves as a call to action for other communities to embrace innovative approaches to affordable housing. Together, we can build a future where every individual has a place to call home, and where the vitality of our city is grounded in the strength of its diverse and thriving neighborhoods.”
Santa Cruz has successfully met its 5th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) targets across all income categories. Notably, the City has exceeded the total 5th Cycle RHNA targets by an impressive 1,000 units. Demonstrating its dedication to affordability, 50% of the 5th Cycle units have qualified as affordable housing options, exemplifying the City's pursuit of inclusive and sustainable housing solutions.
The City's innovative strategies to stimulate affordable and market-rate housing growth have been commendable. Increasing floor area ratios and building heights in the Downtown, creatively implementing density bonus programs, and expanding the application of AB 2162, which streamlines 100% affordable projects with 25% supportive housing, Santa Cruz has made significant strides in promoting housing production. "The City is currently overseeing the development of four 100% affordable housing projects, comprising a total of 400 units, that are either under construction or entitled in Downtown. Remarkably, three of these transformative projects are co- developed by the City itself on City-owned sites, demonstrating Santa Cruz's proactive approach in tackling the housing crisis," said City Manager Matt Huffaker.