Paulson Park demonstrates MidPen?s skill in preserving and maximizing a major housing asset over several decades. In 1973, 149 units were built using HUD project-based Section 8 subsidies. In 1998, MidPen purchased the property, preventing its conversion to market-rate housing. To provide more housing, MidPen completed 104 new units on underutilized space. A renovation of the grounds was one of the first to follow environmental guidelines of Santa Clara County, and included drought-tolerant plants and high-efficiency irrigation. Green building measures including solar panels, high-performance windows, and insulated siding were added to all units. Residents also enjoy private patios, community vegetable gardens, a computer lab, fitness center, and several recreation and gathering rooms surrounded in a park-like setting. Paulson Park earned recognition as a Reader?s Choice Finalist from Affordable Housing Finance magazine in 2009.
