Walker Landing

Eden Housing, a non-profit founded in 1968, provides affordable homes to low-income families across California. One of its major projects, Walker Landing in Hayward, was completed in 2008 and provides 78 energy-efficient, affordable rental homes for families earning 15–50% of the local median income.
Built on a former industrial site, the development was made possible through an innovative deal with a private developer. Instead of scattering a few affordable units across market-rate projects, the city allowed Eden to build all 78 units on one donated site. This made better use of land and created a stronger community impact.
The homes include townhouses and flats with outdoor areas, courtyards, and shared spaces like a community centre, play areas, and picnic spots. On-site support services include youth activities, tutoring, job support, financial literacy, and wellness programs. Residents work in various essential jobs—from healthcare to retail—and benefit from below-market rents, helping families stretch their income further.
Walker Landing is also environmentally smart: it reused a brownfield site, recycled most construction waste, and features green building techniques like efficient insulation, ventilation, and landscaping. It’s close to public transport, schools, and jobs, cutting down on car use.
The $26 million project was funded through a mix of developer contributions, tax credits, and loans. Rent from residents covers ongoing costs. Over 1,500 families applied for the homes, showing strong demand.
Walker Landing has sparked wider redevelopment in the area and become a model for other cities. Eden Housing has since expanded the approach across California, showing how partnerships between cities, developers, and non-profits can build high-quality, affordable housing even in high-cost areas.