990 Polk Street

Founded in 1981, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation (TNDC) supports San Francisco’s most vulnerable residents—especially those who have experienced homelessness—by providing affordable housing and essential support services. TNDC manages 30 buildings for over 3,000 people.
One of its key projects, 990 Polk Street, offers affordable housing for 150 older adults, including those with low incomes and mental health needs. The nine-story building provides 110 units, with half reserved for formerly homeless individuals. Services include health care, counselling, life-skills classes, and meals. An on-site nurse helps with medical referrals and health education.
Located in the dense and low-income Tenderloin neighbourhood, where affordable housing is scarce, this project brings safety, dignity, and independence to its residents. Innovative Aspects include.
• Combined housing for low-income and formerly homeless older adults
• Local rent subsidy (LOSP), helping fill the gap left by federal cuts
• Green building design with energy- and water-saving features
• On-site services reducing hospital visits and improve wellbeing
990 Polk builds a strong, diverse community. Street-level businesses, a café and a grocery store create connection with the neighbourhood and improve local access to healthy food.
While LOSP is subject to review, TNDC signed a long-term contract and built in safety reserves. Energy-efficient systems help reduce costs.
It took six years to complete due to funding delays. TNDC learned to better plan commercial spaces to meet local business needs.
The model has inspired other housing projects in San Francisco and beyond, showing that affordable, dignified housing for older adults is possible even in high-cost cities.