California Construction News staff writer
Construction is underway on a $40-million affordable housing development in southwest Fresno that will create 54 homes for families, with a preference for farmworkers.
Ventura Family Apartments is being built at 3720 E. Ventura Ave., to address the shortage of affordable housing for agricultural workers and their families.
The development team includes Integrated Community Development, Corporation for Better Housing and Kingdom Development Inc. It is being funded by California Bank and Trust, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the City of Fresno.
Fresno has committed up to $5 million toward the project through its Local Housing Trust Fund, including approximately $2.06 million from the city’s Prohousing Incentive Program allocation. The city and its Housing Successor Agency also are contributing land to the development.
In June, the city council approved a 55-year ground lease for the project, with two optional 10-year extensions, helping ensure the property remains affordable over the long term.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The Richman Group, which is involved with the project, said affordable housing provides benefits beyond shelter, contributing to stronger families and improved health and educational outcomes.
“When families have a stable place to call home, the entire community benefits,” the organization said in a news release.
