September 3, 2025

Costa Mesa Begins Redevelopment of Avon River Apartments

News Summary

Costa Mesa has launched the redevelopment of the former Travelodge into the Avon River Apartments, aimed at supporting the unhoused. The new complex will feature 76 affordable units and provide essential services to help residents transition to stable living. This initiative is part of California’s Project Homekey, with significant funding from local governments and organizations. Construction is set to finish by spring, promising a new chapter for residents addressing homelessness.

Costa Mesa has officially commenced the redevelopment of the former Travelodge located on Bristol Street near John Wayne Airport into the Avon River Apartments, a new complex aimed at providing permanent supportive housing for unhoused individuals or those residing in shelters. A ceremonial groundbreaking event was held to mark the start of construction, reflecting a significant step forward in addressing the housing crisis in the region.

The Avon River Apartments will feature a total of 76 units, consisting of studio and one-bedroom apartments. Rent prices will be adjusted based on the individual needs of the residents, ensuring affordability for those transitioning to stable living situations. The new development not only aims to offer long-term housing but also allows for the possibility of tenants moving on to other homes or reuniting with family members as they stabilize their living situations.

This project is part of California’s Project Homekey initiative, which focuses on creating permanent housing solutions to help individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The City of Costa Mesa allocated $4 million in funding for this important project, with an additional $3 million contributed by Newport Beach for the establishment of 12 supportive housing units within the complex. Overall, the funding for Avon River Apartments comprises nearly $29 million from Project Homekey, $6.8 million from county housing funds, and approximately $500,000 from CalOptima Health, reflecting a robust investment in community welfare.

American Family Housing, a nonprofit organization based in Midway City, is overseeing the construction of the Avon River Apartments. Once completed, residents will secure a one-year lease and benefit from a variety of on-site services designed to assist in their transition to stable living. These services include access to medical care, job training, and other essential resources aimed at fostering self-sufficiency.

In a community-focused effort, Pom & Olive, a restaurant located in proximity to the complex, has partnered with the project to offer training opportunities for residents interested in pursuing careers in the food industry. This collaboration is part of a broader strategy to help residents acquire necessary skills and improve their employment prospects, further supporting their transition to independence.

The importance of stable housing combined with supportive services was highlighted by community leaders during the groundbreaking ceremony. They underscored the impact that such projects have on enabling individuals to rebuild their lives and gain access to the resources they need to thrive.

The Avon River Apartments follow Costa Mesa’s previous success in converting a former Motel 6 into 88 units dedicated to affordable housing for seniors, veterans, and at-risk individuals. This ongoing commitment to enhancing the availability of affordable housing units signifies the city’s dedication to addressing the pressing issue of homelessness within the community.

Construction for the Avon River Apartments is projected to be completed by spring, signaling a new chapter for future residents in their journey toward stable and secure housing. The collaborative effort between various entities, including local governments and nonprofit organizations, exemplifies a proactive approach to tackling homelessness and providing comprehensive support systems.