St. Vincent’s is Growing, Not Going as a Result of Downtown Redevelopment
Village Affordable Housing Project Part of East Village Enhancement Efforts

   SAN DIEGO — Amid growing questions about the redevelopment of the East Village area of downtown San Diego and the redesign of the Park in the Park, St. Vincent de Paul Village has received numerous inquiries regarding the future of its facilities located in the area.

   President of St. Vincent’s, Father Joe Carroll, says clients, supporters and even staff are worried ongoing construction of Petco Park, the Park in the Park and other developments will force the organization to find a new home.
"The concern that has been shown regarding our future is understandable, given the growth in the area," he says. "People are trying to comprehend how a facility serving the homeless and needy will fit in to plans for an area that will soon be upscale."

   The worry – while appreciated – is unnecessary, Father Joe says.
"We’ve worked very closely with CCDC and other agencies to ensure that our efforts at St. Vincent’s not only continue, but grow and reflect the development that’s taking place around us."

   Part of that growth can be seen on the corner of 17th Street and Commercial Avenue, the location of St. Vincent’s newest affordable housing complex, Villa Harvey Mandel.

   Named after a former vice president of the organization, the six-story building comprised of 95 units will provide housing to the elderly, disabled, those living with mental illness and other single adults on fixed incomes. At an average of $500, rent for those units will be among the most affordable in San Diego County.

   The building, slated for a May 31 opening, is often mistaken for an upscale development because of its aesthetically pleasing look and sweeping views of the Coronado Bridge, Petco Park and downtown San Diego.

   Future residents of Villa Harvey Mandel will have access to all of the programs available at the Village, including medical and dental care, job training and a full-service counseling department.

   Media only: For more information on Villa Harvey Mandel or to schedule a tour of the new facility, call (619) 525-1608.

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