Cardiff By the Sea, California, May 29, 2026
Photo: sandiegouniontribune.com
Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Cardiff By the Sea, CA, held a groundbreaking ceremony on April 18 for a major expansion of its senior housing community. The project will add 61 new apartments to the church’s existing 30-unit community on its 10-acre campus.
Metropolitan Gerasimos of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco blessed the 2.5-acre construction site with holy water and basil, reports the San Diego Union-Tribune.
The expansion will consist of three new buildings containing 40 one-bedroom units and 21 two-bedroom units. Amenities will include elevators, a wellness walk, lounges, dining areas, and a bocce ball court. Of the new units, 12 will be designated as affordable housing.
San Diego-based Wermers Multi-Family Corporation will construct the project, with completion expected in 2028.
The development was made possible under Senate Bill 4, known as the Affordable Housing on Faith and Higher Education Lands Act or “YIGBY” (Yes in God’s Backyard). This legislation streamlines the permitting process for affordable housing projects on land owned by faith-based institutions and nonprofit colleges.
The groundbreaking attracted local officials and community leaders, including State Senator Catherine Blakespear, Encinitas Mayor Bruce Ehlers, and City of Encinitas Planning Manager Patty Anders.
Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church has served San Diego County for more than 45 years. Beyond its housing ministries, the church operates dozens of other ministries serving the community. The church is also known for hosting the Cardiff Greek Festival each September, an annual event that draws thousands of visitors to its campus.
Follow OrthoChristian on Facebook, Twitter, Vkontakte, Telegram, WhatsApp, and MeWe!