FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jenna Abbott
California Council for Affordable Housing
CCAH@californiacouncil.org
www.californiacouncil.org
Sacramento, CA – May 30, 2025 – The California Council for Affordable Housing (CCAH) is excited to announce guided community tours of the Bernice and AJ Apartments, two of Sacramento’s most innovative affordable housing developments. These tours will take place on Friday, June 13th, in conjunction with the CCAH Spring Conference.
Tour participants will meet in the lobby of the Sawyer Hotel at 9:20 AM, with tour transportation departing promptly at 9:30 AM. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased by contacting Lindsey Dole.
“These tours are an excellent way to see and understand what makes affordable housing an important part of any community,” said Jenna Abbott, Executive Director of the California Council for Affordable Housing. “The Bernice and AJ Apartments are more than just buildings—they’re vibrant, inclusive spaces that reflect the values of equity, sustainability, and community.”
The Bernice was named for Bernice Alexandra “Ray” Eames, the wife of Charles Eames. Most of us are familiar with Charles, an icon who created a futuristic vision in mediums like chairs, architecture and film that came to epitomize America’s post-World War II rush to modernization. Ray, a Sacramento native with sparkling eyes, a deep laugh and a passing resemblance to Katharine Hepburn, was a 50-50 partner in effort, imagination and ability and her contributions cannot be underestimated.
The Bernice features thoughtfully designed studio, one, and two-bedroom floorplans and are stylishly appointed with premium materials and finishes. The community includes Skylounge, a pool, fitness center, and sleek co-working space. What truly sets it apart, however, are the intangibles and we’ll learn all about those on our tour.
The AJ was named for A.J. Stevens, deemed the “Father of Innovation” at the Sacramento Railyards in the late 1800s. He was honored with a monument that stands on the south side of Plaza Park in Sacramento, visible to those walking or driving down J Street. During his tenure as Master Mechanic for the Central Pacific and later the Southern Pacific Railroads Stevens made a strong impression on his supervisors and subordinates and one of the inscriptions on the base of the twenty-two and one-half foot statue reads “Erected To a Friend of Labor by His Coworkers.”
This AJ offers studio, one, and two-bedroom urban apartments in Midtown Sacramento, CA, with select homes reserved for those who earn less than 50% of the area median income. Sustainably built, the fresh design pays subtle homage to the neighborhood’s roots, while embracing modern design cues. With elevated amenities and stylish finishes, the pet-friendly apartments provide a comfortable home.
The tours will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the design, development, and community impact of these landmark projects, providing valuable insights for housing professionals, policymakers, and advocates alike.
Space is limited so prompt registration is encouraged.