SAN FRANCISCO, CA – by Despina Papadatos [Photos: Nektarios Tradas]
Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA, celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony on April 18, for a major expansion of its senior housing community. Attendees included State Senator Catherine S. Blakespear, Encinitas Mayor Bruce Ehlers, City of Encinitas Planning Manager Patty Anders, clergy, and community partners.
After remarks from church and civic leaders, His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco blessed the 2.5-acre construction site, followed by a traditional turning of the soil with commemorative shovels. He was assisted by the parish priests, Rev. Father Michael Sitaras and Rev. Father Angelo Maginas. They were also joined by Spiro Kailas, who serves as both Parish Council President and President of Cardiff Orthodox Housing.
“This groundbreaking for the Cardiff Orthodox Housing marks not only the start of construction, but the realization of a vision shaped by faith, perseverance, and a deep sense of responsibility for one another”, said His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “What will rise from this ground is far more than a residential development. It will be a place of belonging where our faithful, especially our seniors, may continue to live with dignity, surrounded by the life of the Church”.
The project expands the church’s 30‑unit senior housing community by adding 61 units, with 12 dedicated to affordable housing. The three new elevator‑served buildings include 40 one‑bedroom and 21 two‑bedroom units, along with amenities such as a wellness walk, lounges, dining areas, and a bocce ball court.
“These are not just numbers. These are real people who will now have the opportunity to live in our amazing community right here”, said Senator Blakespear. “What you’ve done here is demonstrate leadership and compassion. You’ve shown that it’s possible to use underutilized land, align it with your values, and turn it into something that meets one of our most urgent needs in the state”.
The expansion aligns with California’s SB 4, the Affordable Housing on Faith and Higher Education Lands Act, referred to as “YIGBY” for Yes in God’s Backyard. The law streamlines the development of affordable housing on land owned by faith-based institutions.
The church acquired the property approximately 10 years ago, but unforeseen challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, stalled progress. Through dedication and sustained enthusiasm from church leaders and community partners, the project has now reached this long-awaited milestone.
Construction is expected to begin immediately by Wermers, with completion anticipated in 2028. Sunrise Management, which serves the existing 30 units, will extend its management services to the new units. Additional details, including resident eligibility and leasing information, will be shared as the project progresses.
Source: Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco
