Santa Cruz Council Lets Housing Development Proceed

SANTA CRUZ, CA — The Santa Cruz City Council unanimously rejected an appeal Tuesday night against the construction of a six-story, mixed-use, 233-unit apartment building near Depot Park.

The Calypso, which will feature 35 affordable apartment units at 130 Center Street, was approved in October. Its construction will require the demolition of two commercial buildings on the current site. It will feature 233 studio units, and 2,356 square feet of retail space on the ground floor, including a spa and fitness center.

Days after it was approved by the Santa Cruz Planning Commission, community group Santa Cruz Downtown Forward filed a formal appeal, citing violations of the city general plan. The appeal would have required additional studies, and for the developer to adhere to local zoning and California Environmental Quality Act regulations.

On Tuesday, Santa Cruz Councilmembers heard over three hours of debate. They ultimately decided that the requested study would not change the outcome of the project, and that the area badly needs affordable housing.

The developer allotted an additional four units of affordable housing beyond the required 31. The housing will be reserved for households making 50% of the area’s median income.

Developers say they anticipate construction to begin in September, and last roughly two years.