San Antonio city leaders joined the backers of a new affordable housing community in north central San Antonio on Aug. 2 to formally mark the start of construction of the apartment complex.

The overview

Opportunity Home San Antonio is partnering with an affiliate of Atlantic Pacific Cos. and OCI Development to build Vista at Silver Oaks, a 76-unit apartment community between Northwest Military Highway, Braesview Drive and Lockhill Selma Road between Shavano Park and Castle Hills.

San Antonio City Council voted in December to award $3.3 million from its $150 million housing bond to help fund Vista at Silver Oaks as part of the city’s efforts to boost its affordable housing stock.

“Vista at Silver Oaks is a tangible representation of housing affordability made possible by the affordable housing bond,” Mayor Ron Nirenberg said in a statement. “It delivers on the promise of creating and expanding housing opportunity for all through partnership and determination.”

The specifics

According to a news release, rental prices will range from $593 to $1,370 for two- and three-bedroom units, and all are set aside for residents earning up to 60% of the area median income, which is $79,100 for a family of three.

The release states a utility allowance will be provided to all residents to help offset their utility expenses. Representatives for the developers also said eight of the units are deeply affordable for individuals and families who earn less than 30% AMI. An additional 22 units are reserved for households making 50% AMI.

Amenities will include on-site business, fitness and laundry centers as well as social events, education opportunities, and health and wellness programming for residents. The development is also partnering with local nonprofits that provide supportive services, including a food pantry and case management services, according to the release.

The context

District 9 Council Member John Courage, who represents the area around Vista at Silver Oaks, said various types of affordable housing are needed citywide.

“San Antonio is one of the most economically segregated cities in the nation, and affordable options like Vista at Silver Oaks will provide residents a safe place to live where they work, learn and play,” Courage said in a statement. “With more options for our neighbors, we are giving families a chance to thrive, fostering a stronger, more inclusive community."

According to the release, Vista at Silver Oaks is located in a high-opportunity area, which is defined by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs as an area with more opportunities for residents, including high-performing schools, a low poverty rate, a higher median household income and close proximity to services.

Tim Alcott, chief legal and real estate officer of Opportunity Home San Antonio, said it can be challenging to build affordable housing in San Antonio because of higher land prices.

“We are tremendously fortunate to be able to build this development in a location near jobs, high-quality schools, and a major transportation corridor,” Alcott said in a statement.

What to expect

The release states all living spaces at Vista at Silver Oaks will have at least one accessible pedestrian route to the unit, and at least 5% of units will be set aside for the mobility impaired with additional units designed specifically for the hearing and/or visually impaired. There will also be outdoor play areas, green spaces, recreational areas and safety features.

The building design will prioritize energy efficiency, sustainable water reduction features, resilient building and weatherization practices, residential storm water control features, and/or other measures designed to reduce environmental impacts of development and lower energy costs for residents, the release states. The project is scheduled for completion in summer 2024.

OCI partner and co-founder Anita Fernández said her company seeks to help create more equitable access to high-quality affordable housing.

“Along with our partner, an affiliate of Atlantic Pacific Companies, we remain invested in community-focused and relationship-based development that will continue to positively transform San Antonio now and for years to come,” Fernández said in a statement.