Saint Patrick’s Terrace is a high-profile development in an area experiencing extensive revitalization in West Oakland, Calif. In July 2009, Satellite undertook a major rehab and reconfiguration. The property now includes 57 efficiencies and studio apartments, 8 one-bedroom apartments and 1 two-bedroom apartment.
The property offers comprehensive support services programs to 81 low-income seniors. Forty-two units are reserved for seniors earning less than 50 percent of the area median income, and an additional 23 homes are available to individuals with special needs. One apartment serves as the office of the property manager and resident services coordinator.
Originally constructed in 1972, the property was in sore need of modernization as it passed 35 years of occupancy. Before the rehab, Saint Patrick’s Terrace faced high capital costs from old financing and high operating expenses due to aging building systems and increasing maintenance needs. Satellite Housing carefully planned its rehabilitation over an extended period. Carefully timing rehab work to unit turnover, it minimized relocation expenses, freeing up additional resources to support a larger rehabilitation scope. The green rehabilitation improved plumbing systems, old windows and exterior finishes, and modern technology. Satellite Housing also reconfigured the interior during the rehabilitation to provide more usable space for staff offices and resident activities. The rehabilitation has lowered operating expenses and utility bills dramatically at Saint Patrick’s Terrace. Monthly electricity bills, for instance, dropped by nearly $1,000.