New Arden Arcade Workforce Housing Apartment Complex Has Neighbors Concerned
ARDEN ARCADE (CBS 13) – Homeowners in Arden Arcade are concerned about a new apartment complex going up in their neighborhood.
The Anton Arcade Apartments are set to open this fall as housing for people in the workforce, but people nearby fear the change the complex might bring to their area.
"I don't think they're modern, I think they're ugly," said Shirley Wilson, who lives on Butano Drive just a block away from the new apartments. "Can't you just imagine? Thefts and the break-ins! I just wish they weren't there."
The 148-unit complex will be designated as workforce housing. Susan Peters, Sacramento County District 3 Supervisor, believes it'll be a positive addition to the Arden area.
"It's available for people who work in the area," she said. "There are a lot of retail stores in the area that could use people to work there. And if they've got to drive from South Sacramento or Natomas, it's less likely to find the workers."
One of the biggest concerns from neighbors is the kind of people that workforce housing may attract. But Peters insists the new apartments are not low-income housing - they are for people in the workforce who meet a certain set of criteria.
"You can actually earn up to $60,000 a year and qualify to live there," Peters said.
A lawsuit was filed last year by residents in the area who did not want the complex to be built. It was dismissed last December, but people like Wilson still disapprove.
"I don't think they should have been there!" she said.
"That many people, that many apartments!" said homeowner Jackie Silvers. "This is going to look like a thoroughfare."
Peters maintains that the Department of Transportation did their homework and determined the new apartments would have little effect on the surrounding streets.
"The bus route and light rail route will really make a difference on that," she said.
Some people in the area aren't unhappy at all and told CBS13 they're looking forward to having new neighbors.
"It's perfect for people that are working and struggling and trying to make ends meet," said Jaime Johnson.
Still, Silvers has lived in the community for more than 40 years. She said hopes best for the new residents, but doesn't want her peaceful neighborhood to lose its charm.
"This has been a quiet, nice little street, so I'm concerned," she said.
Construction by Anton Development began in March 2015. The first residents are expected to move in sometime in October.
