Grand Opening of Iris Affordable Housing Community in San Ysidro
On December 16, 2025, a significant milestone in affordable housing was achieved with the grand opening of Iris at San Ysidro, a 100-unit housing community developed through a collaborative effort involving National CORE, the San Diego Housing Commission, and local government entities. Located at 1663 Dairy Mart Road, directly adjacent to a trolley stop and the recently renovated Howard Lane Park, the Iris project aims to meet the pressing need for affordable housing in the San Diego area.
This newly inaugurated facility consists of 42 one-bedroom, 32 two-bedroom, and 25 three-bedroom apartments, specifically designed to cater to low-income families and individuals. Notably, the Iris includes 15 dedicated units for residents who have faced homelessness and is equipped with resources to assist those with mobility challenges, as well as five units tailored for individuals with hearing impairments.
San Diego County Supervisor Paloma Aguirre expressed her support for the initiative, stating, “I am proud to support The Iris at San Ysidro because it reflects the kind of thoughtful development our region needs. It is housing that is affordable, sustainable, and connected to parks, transit, and community services.” Her comments highlight the emphasis on integrated planning and community-centric development, aligning with broader state and national goals for sustainable urban living.
Residents of the Iris will be required to meet specific income criteria, defined as extremely low to low income, earning between 25% and 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). As per county statistics, the 2025 AMI for a family of two is 0,800, while it is 5,500 for a family of four. The affordability of these units will be preserved for 55 years, ensuring long-term housing solutions for those who need them most.
Furthermore, the San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) has allocated 25 housing vouchers specifically for this development. These vouchers are instrumental in keeping rent manageable for extremely low-income households, and they will remain attached to the Iris, enabling ongoing support for future residents as circumstances change.
The Iris project emphasizes a commitment to holistic community development, with public-private partnerships playing a crucial role in its funding. The county contributed million from the Innovative Housing Trust Fund and an additional .5 million from the No Place Like Home program. Furthermore, County Behavioral Health Services is set to provide necessary supportive services to residents for two decades.
Amenities within the community include a dedicated social space, a laundry facility, and a courtyard area designed for recreation, thus fostering a sense of community among residents. This initiative not only answers the urgent need for affordable housing but also exemplifies best practices in community development by prioritizing accessibility and sustainability.
As the need for affordable housing continues to rise across California, projects like Iris at San Ysidro serve as vital components in addressing the housing crisis, offering hope and stability to families that otherwise might be unable to secure safe and affordable living conditions.
