National City is preparing for a new housing project that will serve low-income households along with veterans impacted by homelessness. Named Union Tower Apartments, the affordable property is expected to open in summer 2026. Project development is being carried out through collaborative efforts from nonprofit Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation and the City of National City.
Union Tower Brings Affordable Housing to National City
In an official announcement, the City of National City stated that the 94-unit Union Tower Apartments development will emphasize local, low-income households as per its Local Preference Policy. Based on the same, project developers have reserved a total of 24 units for Veterans facing homelessness.
The latest housing project in National City has two buildings spanning four and seven floors. These will be offered to families making between 30 to 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) of the County of San Diego.
In addition to serving low- and very low-income households, Union Tower will deliver housing access to special-needs populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and larger families.
Strategic Location and Amenities
Union Tower features an ideal location with closeness to several bus routes alongside a regional rail station. Tenants at the National City property can thereby find convenient transportation and employment opportunities.
Other amenities in close proximity to the National City development will include a public park/community center. Residents can access recreational facilities and community resources by covering a distance of just one-half mile from Union Tower.
Tenants in the National City property will experience sustainable and energy-efficient designs. The Union Tower community will also receive amenities, such as a computer lab, on-site laundry facilities, BBQ and picnic spaces, shared common areas, and outdoor decks.
“Union Tower is a great addition to the positive growth happening across our Bayfront, downtown, and neighborhoods,” Mayor Ron Morrison.
Morrison further threw light on how the latest development promises a safe and affordable living option in National City while also offering quality amenities and programs that uplift the quality of life.
National City residents in the newly constructed units at Union Tower will also receive a range of on-site programs that support their personal growth and economic stability. Some of these will be computer training and literacy, financial counseling, job search assistance, mentoring, resume building, and tutoring.
Union Tower’s supportive programs will also cater to Veterans facing homelessness. These include physical and mental health care, resident service coordination, and case management.
Funding and City Investment
To manage a funding shortfall, Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation sought and secured support through two competitive City funding programs. It received an $8 million loan from the National City Housing Authority’s Housing Fund. In addition, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOME Investment Partnerships Program offered a $1.5 million loan.
Wakeland has partnered with National City following Town Square Rowhomes, a project which wrapped up in 2002.
“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.”
Commitment to Addressing Housing Needs
Serving a population of nearly 58,000, National City has added more than 2,400 affordable homes for low- and very low-income families. This marks notable progress toward its Housing Element objectives.
The City has invested over $23 million in the last three years for affordable housing using National City Housing Authority funds, federal funding sources administered by the City, and City-owned land.
With Union Tower moving closer to completion, the project highlights National City’s sustained focus on investing in housing stability and expanded opportunities for low-income residents and Veterans.
