Residents of permanent supportive housing typically pay 30% of their income toward rent and agree to abide by rental terms. Photo courtesy of Placer County

AUBURN, CA (MPG) - Placer County has been awarded a nearly $14.9 million grant from the state’s Homekey+ program to expand permanent supportive housing in unincorporated Auburn by converting a former motel.

The $14,891,283 grant will fund the purchase and renovation of a motel on Hillcrest Drive to create up to 55 units (including one managers’ unit) of permanent supportive housing. The site, dubbed “Carriage Court Studios,” will prioritize housing for veterans and individuals experiencing homelessness with behavioral health needs. Tenants will have case management as well as support from 24/7 onsite staff.

Placer County’s Board of Supervisors previously approved both the property acquisition and grant application in public meetings earlier this year. Homekey+, funded through Proposition 1, builds on the state’s Homekey program, which funded previous developments in Roseville and Kings Beach.

“We’ve seen firsthand in Kings Beach how well this model can work. It’s not just about housing, it’s about ongoing support and accountability, staying connected with neighbors, and making sure the site adds value to the area,” said District 5 Supervisor Cindy Gustafson.

Carriage Court Studios will offer more intensive behavioral health support onsite than typical housing projects, in partnership between AMI (Area Median Income) Housing and the county’s behavioral health team, allowing it to serve residents with greater needs.

“We will now have Homekey projects in all three regions of the county, representing close to 150 units,” said Health and Human Services Director Dr. Rob Oldham. “We appreciate the investment from the state and the support of our local partners in bringing these projects to life and helping maintain the county’s low rate of homelessness.”

AMI Housing, a longtime nonprofit housing provider in the region, will serve as the project’s development and service partner. The organization applies a “good neighbor” policy at all its locations, developed in collaboration with local law enforcement and municipal leaders. The location meets other siting criteria developed through a collaborative regional process, including proximity to amenities.

“We're proud to continue our work with Placer County on supportive housing that truly meets people where they are,” said AMI Housing CEO Jennifer Price. “These projects change lives, and when they’re done right, they strengthen communities too.”

The Auburn project will be bound by a 55-year deed restriction to ensure it continues to serve those in need for decades. Residents of permanent supportive housing typically pay 30% of their income toward rent and agree to abide by rental terms.

More details and an informational FAQ are available on the county website.