In a major step toward expanding affordable housing opportunities, the City of National City announces the development of Union Tower Apartments, a new construction, 94‐unit affordable housing community set to open in Summer 2026. The development will prioritize local, low‐income households in accordance with the City’s Local Preference Policy, with 24 of the units reserved for Veterans who have experienced homelessness.
Located at 2312 F Avenue in National City, Union Tower features two buildings, four and seven stories tall, available to households earning between 30 to 60% of the County of San Diego’s Area Median Income (AMI).
“Union Tower is a great addition to the positive growth happening across our Bayfront, downtown, and neighborhoods,” said Mayor Ron Morrison in a statement. “This development expands access to safe, affordable housing and gives National City residents the opportunity to live in a brand- new community with quality amenities, nearby transit and parks, and programs that support long-term stability and a better quality of life.
To address a funding gap in the Union Tower Apartments development, Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation responded to two competitive Notices of Funding Availability issued by the City. Wakeland was awarded an $8 million loan from the National City Housing Authority’s Housing Fund and $1.5 million in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds. Wakeland returns to National City following its previous project, Town Square Rowhomes, completed in 2002. The City is thrilled to once again partner with Wakeland, a non-profit leader in affordable housing development since 1998.
“Union Tower reflects the kind of positive growth happening across National City,” said Rebecca Louie, President and CEO of Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation. “Through our partnership with the City, this project delivers high-quality, affordable homes, supports skilled local employment, and helps bring Veterans home with dignity and stability.”
Union Tower Apartments supports the National City Housing Authority’s mission to promote adequate and affordable housing, expand economic opportunity, and provide suitable living environments for all households. This project prioritizes housing opportunities for very low-, low-, and moderate-income families, while also providing accessible housing for special-needs populations, including larger families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Union Tower is strategically located within close proximity to multiple bus routes and a regional rail station, enhancing access to transit and employment opportunities. The site is also located within one‐half mile of a public park or community center, providing residents with convenient access to recreational and community resources that support quality of life and neighborhood connectivity.
Residents living in the newly constructed units will have access to a variety of on-site programs designed to support economic stability and personal growth, including computer training and literacy, job search assistance, resume writing, financial counseling, tutoring, and mentoring. In addition, supportive services will be provided to Veterans who have experienced homelessness, including case management, physical and mental health care, and resident service coordination.
Apartments will feature Apartments will feature sustainable, energy‐efficient designs, while community amenities include on‐site laundry facilities, a computer lab, shared common areas, BBQ and picnic spaces, outdoor decks, and additional features designed to support resident comfort and connection.
With a population of approximately 58,000 residents, National City has made steady progress toward meeting its Housing Element goals, with more than 2,400 affordable housing units for low‐ and very low‐income households citywide.
Over the past three years, the City has intentionally invested more than $23 million in affordable housing through City‐owned land, National City Housing Authority funds, and federal funding sources administered by the City. These investments reflect National City’s commitment to expanding housing opportunities and addressing long‐standing affordability challenges within the community.
The partnership with Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation, along with new and existing City initiatives, represents an exciting opportunity to invest in neighborhoods, reduce housing pressures, and create quality living spaces that support National City’s economic and community growth.
For more information about Union Tower Apartments, visit www.uniontowerapts.com.
For more information about the National City Housing Authority, visit www.nationalcityca.gov/housing or call (619) 336-4254.
