Former CAL FIRE property in Riverside being transformed into affordable housing

California Construction News staff writer

Construction has stafted on Mulberry Gardens, a new affordable housing community on a former California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) site in Riverside. The development will create hundreds of homes for seniors and families as part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s initiative to convert underutilized state land into affordable housing.

The project includes Mulberry Gardens Senior Apartments at 2524 Mulberry Street, currently under construction with 59 units for low-income seniors, and Mulberry Gardens Family Apartments at 2560 Mulberry Street, which will add 150 affordable family units in Phase II. The site spans just over four acres and is located less than a mile from downtown Riverside, close to transit, services, and amenities.

“Through the Excess Sites program, we’re putting state land to work and creating new homes ourselves,” Newsom said. “As we convert state properties, we’re moving faster to tackle homelessness and open up opportunities for families and seniors who need a safe, stable place to call home.”

The project is being developed by Eden Housing and is funded through a combination of $44.8 million in state funds, $4.5 million in local funds, $2 million in private contributions, and 37 project-based Section 8 vouchers. Phase II will feature one- to three-bedroom units, a community room, computer lab, fitness facilities, and a playground.

“The state has taken huge strides to bring these sites online for those who need it most,” said Government Operations Agency Secretary Nick Maduros. “Projects like Mulberry Gardens help address housing affordability issues across California.”

The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) provided expedited environmental review, completing its cleanup assessment in under six months, ensuring public health protections while allowing construction to stay on schedule.

“This project demonstrates how underutilized state land can be transformed into safe, affordable housing,” said DTSC Director Katherine Butler. “It’s another step toward revitalizing communities and creating opportunities for families and seniors.”

Mulberry Gardens is one of more than 90 state-supported housing projects under the Excess Sites program, which identifies underused state properties for redevelopment. Similar projects include affordable housing developments in Sacramento, Los Angeles, San José, and Truckee, illustrating California’s ongoing commitment to tackling the housing and homelessness crisis.