The two buildings will bring an additional 61 units of affordable family housing to the property in Turlock, Calif.

TURLOCK, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2024) — EAH Housing, one of the largest and most respected nonprofit housing development and management organizations in the western United States, today announced the grand opening of Avena Bella II, the second and final phase of the previously constructed Avena Bella. The two new buildings will provide 61 units of affordable family housing, a robust amenities package, and transportation options to Turlock residents.

“Like many other cities in California, Turlock is facing a significant housing crisis,” said Assemblymember Juan Alanis. “We’re excited to bring affordable housing to Turlock’s low-income residents through Avena Bella II, but we know there’s more to be done to meet the growing demand. This partnership between EAH Housing and the City of Turlock, backed by years of combined experience in affordable housing, will help our community maintain its strong commitment to providing affordable housing. Together, we tackled the city’s housing challenges and completed both phases of this project.”

Situated on 2.2 acres, Avena Bella II features two buildings comprising 21 one-bedroom, 22 two-bedroom, and 17 three-bedroom units. The first building is a two-story walk-up with 16 residences. The second is a three-story, elevator-served building with 46 homes.

Located at 500 West Linwood Ave., Avena Bella is directly adjacent to Cunningham Elementary School and a bus stop for convenient transport around the city. The property is situated near several retail markets, including CVS and Save Mart, as well as a variety of restaurants and a Starbucks. Residents are three miles from Emanuel Medical Center and close to a community recreation center.

Designed by renowned architects at The DAHLIN Group, the buildings’ inviting yellow façade and striking tile roof echo the Mediterranean-style aesthetic of the development’s initial phase. Open-air walkways and balconies for select units allow residents to soak up the California sun.

A recreation area and tot lot are located at the center of the development and serve as a gathering place for those enjoying the nearby barbecue grills. Residents can access common interior spaces, on-site laundry rooms, enclosed bicycle storage, and Phase I amenities (computer lab, full community kitchen, community pool, and large outdoor play area). Avena Bella II will provide 108 parking spaces, bringing the total number of covered and uncovered stalls to 247.

“The first phase of Avena Bella brought high-quality, affordable housing options that have since significantly benefited the lives of many Turlock families,” said Laura Hall, CEO of EAH Housing. “This second phase will further this crucial mission when needed most. We are proud to partner with the City of Turlock again and celebrate the unrelenting work EAH Housing is doing in this community and throughout California.”

The LEED Platinum-certified Avena Bella II utilizes solar thermal water heating systems and solar panels to reduce its carbon footprint.

About EAH Housing

EAH Housing is a nonprofit corporation with a mission to expand the range of opportunities for all by developing, managing, and promoting quality, affordable housing and diverse communities. Established in 1968, EAH Housing has become one of the largest and most respected nonprofit housing development and management organizations in the Western United States. It has over 750 employees and plays a leadership role in local, regional, and national housing advocacy efforts. 

Starting from grass-roots origins in response to the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., EAH Housing now serves over 25,000 low-income families, seniors, veterans, formerly unhoused individuals, people with special needs, transitional age youth (TAY), artists, farm workers, and students across more than 240 communities in California and Hawai’i. Combining award-winning design, innovative onsite services, and a commitment to people, EAH Housing reflects the distinctive personality of each community.