FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — A long-troubled stretch of Parkway Drive is set for another major transformation after the City of Fresno was awarded $32 million to convert the Valley Inn motel from shelter to permanent supportive housing.
The funding, awarded through the State of California’s Homekey+ Program in partnership with Parkway Prime LLC, will convert 106 interim housing units into 84 permanent supportive apartments.
The project is described as the latest step forward in transforming Parkway Drive and meeting the affordable housing needs of Fresnans.
[RELATED] Waste Watch: Has $3.8 billion in funding for one housing program worked?
Plans call for expanding the motel’s footprint by adding square footage and building out resident amenities, including an upgraded on-site laundry facility, community space and meeting rooms for confidential case management services.
Accessibility upgrades will include a modernized elevator and full ADA compliance across select units and common areas.
Each unit will be equipped with kitchenettes and updated with modern flooring, lighting and bathroom fixtures.
“Projects like this one are helping expand affordable housing in our city, but more importantly are preventing displacement by giving people an opportunity to prosper in their own community,” Mayor Jerry Dyer said.
By investing in this part of our city, we are continuing to change the trajectory of that area and giving people the services they need for a new beginning.
When complete, the project will reserve nine units for veterans.
The City of Fresno award was announced by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday, July 23rd.