RHF Celebrates Topping-Off of New Affordable Housing Community in Chula Vista, Calif.

On May 15, 2025, Retirement Housing Foundation (RHF)—based in Long Beach, Calif.— reached a key milestone in the development of Congregational Place, its new affordable senior housing community in Chula Vista, Calif. Together with partners and community leaders, RHF celebrated the topping-off of the building—a tradition that marks the placement of the final structural beam and the project’s transition into its final phase of construction.

Located at the entrance to Chula Vista’s historic downtown, Congregational Place will offer 55 one-bedroom affordable apartments for low-income seniors, along with an on-site health care clinic to support aging in place. The development is a collaboration between RHF, Community Congregational Development Corporation (CCDC), San Ysidro Health, and the City of Chula Vista.

RHF’s Vice President of Acquisitions and Development Bob Fard opened the ceremony by recognizing the collective effort behind the project. “This milestone is not just about a building,” he said. “It’s about what we’re building for—community, dignity, and opportunity for older adults.”

RHF President & CEO Stuart Hartman spoke about the urgent need for affordable senior housing in the region and how Congregational Place reflects RHF’s commitment to meeting that need. “We are proud to be part of the solution,” he said, “bringing together housing and health care in a model that supports independence, affordability, and well-being.”

Following the ceremony, guests signed their names on the final steel beam before it was placed by Consolidated Contracting, RHF’s construction partner and event organizer. It was a meaningful moment, recognizing the many hands that have contributed to bringing this vision to life.

Congregational Place will feature fully accessible units, a PACE ( Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) health clinic, and a wide range of amenities—from a community garden and yoga lawn to indoor gathering spaces and technology labs. Sustainability features, including solar panels, battery storage, and water-efficient systems, will help reduce costs and environmental impact.

With construction on track for completion in early 2026, RHF is proud of the progress made and grateful for the strong partnerships guiding this development forward. As Bob Fard said in his closing remarks, “We’re one step closer to welcoming residents into a place they can truly call home—where they’ll find not only housing, but also care, connection, and community.”