The Housing Authority of the City of Alameda (AHA) has negotiated a purchase and sale agreement for the Hawthorn Suites hotel at 1628 Webster Street.

AHA plans to adapt the existing Hawthorn Suites building into an affordable housing complex consisting of 50 studio apartments. The studios will serve a need for small affordable homes in a highly desirable location on the island, according to an AHA press release. A physical needs assessment has been completed by AHA.

AHA believes acquiring an existing structure instead of building a new structure is advantageous to the organization, the city and residents because it allows the Housing Authority to house low-income residents faster and more cost efficiently.

“AHA believes this is a unique opportunity to provide high quality affordable workforce housing in Alameda, we look forward to working with local businesses and the West Alameda Business Association, neighbors and local nonprofits on this project.” said Vanessa Cooper, AHA Executive Director.

AHA plans to start community outreach to local businesses and homeowners in early fall. Interested parties can sign up for email notifications at www.ahagroup.live (email list: Alameda Hotel conversion). This workforce housing development will serve individuals with incomes between $20,000 and $60,000 per year, and 25% of the units will provide supportive housing with full on-site services.

The real estate acquisition is still subject to receiving state funding for the structure adaptation, which is expected to be determined by the end of the year. If the purchase is successful, AHA intends to honor existing commercial leases for the store front business located at this site.

AHA is a key member of the Webster Street neighborhood as the owner of more than 300 existing affordable homes in the adjacent community. Recently, AHA opened Rosefield Village on Buena Vista Avenue. Additionally, AHA serves as an ally of the City of Alameda in its quest toward adding more housing and reaching the 2023-2031 Regional Housing Needs (RHNA) requirements.

AHA has provided housing assistance to low-income households for more than 80 years. The primary goal of the Housing Authority is to provide quality, affordable, and safe housing in the City of Alameda. AHA programs include Housing Choice Vouchers, Project-Based Vouchers, specialized housing assistance, family self-sufficiency, affordable real estate development, resident services, and management of AHA-owned property.

To learn more about AHA, visit www.alamedahsg.org.