College Vista

The San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) is one of the largest 2-year college systems in California with three community colleges located in San Mateo, Redwood City, and San Bruno, serving over 40,000 students annually. The affordable faculty and staff apartments are offered at below market rates to attract and retain outstanding faculty members in the cost-prohibitive market of northern California. College Vista is comprised of two, 3-story apartment buildings in addition to a community building, direct access garages and open parking in landscaped motor courts. District-owned land eliminated acquisition costs and 100% collateralization allowed housing without equity investment. The public/private effort encompassed the District, a private apartment developer, architect/planner, financial consultant and City redevelopment and utilities officials. Affordable rents and incentives for eventual home purchase encourage talented young faculty and staff to stay. The site offers multiple in-city amenities in addition to its proximity to the college.