FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Holly Ferris, Ferris Communications, (562) 429-6456,

 
Mosaic Gardens at Whittier Begins Construction
Community Gathers to Break Ground on New 21-Unit Complex for Low-Income, Working Families

WHITTIER, Calif., Nov. 17, 2011 — Today, city officials, LINC Housing and other partners gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony for Mosaic Gardens at Whittier, a brand new 21-unit affordable housing community. The new complex, located at the corner of Philadelphia and Pickering streets, is a gateway into the Uptown Whittier neighborhood.

“This new development meets a need in our community,” said Mayor Cathy Warner. “This lot has been vacant for 22 years, but soon it will be our city’s first affordable housing complex for low-income, working families. We’ve had great success with LINC Housing in the past and look forward to seeing this development take shape.” Mosaic Gardens at Whittier will be the third development by LINC Housing in the city. The nonprofit still owns and manages the senior community SEASONS at The Hoover, a 50-unit historic building located uptown.

The Mosaic Gardens site is identified by Whittier’s Redevelopment Agency as a Housing Opportunity Site and is also located within the Whittier Boulevard Redevelopment Area. Future residents will have access to many amenities including a public park, elementary and high schools, public transportation, retail shopping, and other service opportunities — all located within a half mile of the site.

Mosaic Gardens at Whittier is designed with three stories over a one-level parking garage. The property features a large community space where residents will enjoy special events and resident services programs. This general gathering place will also serve as the main entrance to the community and will house the manager’s office and a computer lab. The property’s large courtyard will be equipped with a barbecue and picnic area as well as a tot lot. LINC is committed to developing housing that sits lightly on the earth and will seek a Leadership in Energy Efficient Design (LEED) designation.

“LINC Housing is pleased to be involved with the first construction project under the new Uptown Whittier Specific Plan,” stated Hunter L. Johnson, LINC’s president and CEO. “The staff at Whittier understands the need to provide housing options for its community, so it’s been our pleasure to partner with the staff to bring this project to life.”

Funding for the $9.4 million development comes from a number of sources including Whittier Redevelopment Agency housing funds, City of Whittier HOME funds, and a loan and tax credit equity from Bank of America. All apartments are for families earning between 30-60 percent of the area median income for Los Angeles County, as established by HUD. Rents will range from an estimated $523 to $1,266 per month, depending on household income. Construction is expected to begin immediately with completion planned for late 2012 or early 2013.

Note to Editors: Artist’s rendering and ground break photos available.

About LINC Housing Corporation
LINC Housing, one of California’s most productive nonprofit developers of affordable housing, has helped create more than 7,000 homes in 60 communities throughout the state. The organization’s properties are known for excellent design, outstanding management and life-enhancing services for its residents. LINC has 27 years of service to families, seniors, and local governments helping to create sustainable communities via new construction, acquisition and rehabilitation, and historic preservation.