State Of The Art Affordable Housing: Black and Brown Builders Redefine San Francisco's Mission District

With a rich heritage and visionary aspirations, Derek Smith and Marinship are poised to redefine San Francisco's future for families. On a sunlit spring morning in the Mission District, the community convened for more than a groundbreaking; they witnessed a pivotal moment in combatting displacement. Casa Adelante, located at 1515 South Van Ness, celebrated the initiation of a new 100% affordable housing complex that will offer 168 rental units aimed at low-income families, including those facing homelessness and living with HIV. Situated in the culturally vibrant Calle 24 Latino Cultural District, this development marks a significant move against years of gentrification. Led by Smith, a third-generation tradesman and a native San Franciscan, this project encapsulates a deeply personal mission. "It's about building homes and supporting communities," Smith asserted. The involvement of Marinship Development Interest LLC and Guzman Construction Group underscores a commitment to equitable contracting practices and reinforces the importance of minority participation within the construction sector.