The overarching goal of the EcoHood pilot project is to create a template for converting surplus publicly-owned parcels into stable housing faster and cheaper, while maintaining a green footprint. We believe housing is a human right.
Combining small-footprint modular residences with solar power and other energy performance features, LA CAN’s EcoHood prototype consists of a dozen 400 square foot 1BR and 2BR units. Each home includes a bathroom with shower, fully equipped kitchen and living area. Common areas and an organic gardening space will help foster a sense of community in a relaxed environment conducive to pursuing educational and employment opportunities.
The price of an EcoHood modular home is $80,000, compared to as much as $800,000 for similar size apartment developed under Prop. HHH, the $1.2 billion homeless housing measure.
The factory-built models are architecturally consistent with any neighborhood and are as long lasting as on-site construction.
Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass has ordered city officials to prepare a list of the city’s vacant and unused properties to determine which ones will be used for building homeless housing. Any planned projects could be built using modular components with the focus on construction of long-term units with their own kitchens and bathrooms — standard features in EcoHood models. The Los Angeles Community Action Network’s EcoHood development in South Central L.A is a road map for converting surplus government land into affordable housing, requiring less time and money to build. And the concept is catching on at City Hall.
LA CAN has created an EcoHood fund to construct homes on suitable parcels on the mayor’s property list. Please consider donating to this innovative solution that is both ECO-logical and ECO-nomical— a solution that could guarantee dignified housing for our vulnerable neighbors.