VTA signs agreement with MidPen to build affordable housing at Capitol Rail Station

VTA Capitol Station rendering

When Matt Franklin, the president of MidPen Housing Corp., arrived Friday morning at the parking lot of Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority’s Capitol Light Rail Station, he was reminded of one of Joni Mitchell’s iconic songs — but only in reverse.

In his mind, MidPen was going to “build paradise and tear up a parking lot.” That dream can now become a reality after MidPen signed a lease option agreement with the VTA to move forward with a 203-unit transit-oriented development project at the corner of Narvaez Avenue and Capitol Expressway that will offer 100% affordable housing.

The legacy of Don Horsley

Half Moon Village grand opening

Nevada V. Merriman, MidPen’s Director of Policy, remembers the life and legacy of Supervisor Horsley, who “stood tall on the principle that everyone needs a safe, affordable place to live — and that each community could and should do its fair share to build homes.”

Second phase of Atkinson Lane housing project takes shape

Pippin II construction

The new 80-unit housing development at 78 Atkinson Lane in Watsonville by MidPen Housing is moving skyward. Situated between Atkinson Lane and Brewington Avenue, the development is the second phase of the nearby Pippin Orchards.