Party to save UC Davis affordable housing

A couple weeks ago, we reported that UC Davis threatened to close its affordable, family-friendly housing for graduate students. In their place, expect privatized apartments with high rent and high-end tanning salons.

If the story compelled you in some way, you might be interested in Party for the Parks on Thursday, May 22. Residents and supporters will meet for a potluck, barbeque and brainstorm session on how to move forward.

Since the story ran, residents sent a list of demands to Chancellor Linda Katehi: rebuild Orchard and Solano Park on the same sites; maintain the building-to-green-space ratio; continue UC management of the Parks; keep up family-friendly programming and guarantee that rent will meet the federal definition of affordable. (That’s 30 percent of salary, which current rent at $906 doesn’t meet either.)

On May 13, Katehi responded. The takeaway is expectedly vague: exact plans for the new developments still aren’t in place, but the complexes will probably still close in July.

While we will be embarking on a new planning process to envision what a new Orchard Park should become, we will continue to work with current residents to ensure they have a successful transition plan. We then intend to demolish the facility to remove any safety concerns that may result from a vacant facility.

On Thursday, meet the Parks people at the Memorial Union flagpole at noon. Follow @SaveTheParksNow on Twitter for updates.

Our content is free, but not free to produce

If you value our local news, arts and entertainment coverage, become an SN&R supporter with a one-time or recurring donation. Help us keep our reporters at work, bringing you the stories that need to be told.

Newsletter

Stay Updated

For the latest local news, arts and entertainment, sign up for our newsletter.
We'll tell you the story behind the story.