Firehouse Square Opens 66 Affordable Apartments In Belmont

BELMONT, CA — Belmont and San Mateo County leaders this week celebrated the grand opening of Firehouse Square, a new development that provides more than five dozen affordable housing units along El Camino Real.

MidPen Housing's newest project is its first in Belmont, sitting across the street from the Caltrain station and within walking distance of restaurants, stores, parks and other amenities. The 66 apartments it provides are available to families and residents making up to 80 percent of the area median income (AMI), including eight set aside for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

"Firehouse Square is a shining example of what can be achieved when people work together to create a common goal," said Belmont Mayor Julia Mates. "Our partnerships have contributed to creating a centrally-located, diverse, affordable, and sustainable neighborhood that Belmont can be proud of."

According to developers, the city-owned property incorporates the old firehouse's facade, and local artist Xuan May Ho used salvaged materials from the original building to design two murals. Residents will also have access to family services and after-school programs.

"Firehouse Square is high-quality housing in an incredible community with access to good jobs, great schools, public transportation and nearly everything else our residents look for in a great place to live," said Matthew O. Franklin, MidPen Housing's CEO. "We know that housing is more than just a roof over someone's head. It's a foundation for futures, a source of stability and opportunity, and a key to well-being."