Nine unhoused families who were set to move into the Phoenix Apartments in West Oakland now have temporary long-term shelter after months of delays in the building’s opening. However, the actual move-in date for the 100-unit affordable housing development remains uncertain.
The families had previously signed leases or paid deposits, expecting to move into the East Bay Asian Local Development Corporation (EBALDC)-developed property at 821 Pine St. between June and October 2025. Despite a ribbon-cutting ceremony in November 2025, many of the matched households were still unable to move in. The complex is managed by Abode Services and is designated as 100% affordable housing.
Advocates from the Housing and Dignity Project say the delays have had serious consequences. Because Alameda County’s homelessness tracking system has marked some residents as “permanently housed,” they have reportedly become ineligible for certain shelter and support services, even though they have not yet moved into stable housing.
Stephanie Kimble, a single mother, said she and her teenage daughter were living in a vehicle while waiting for their unit. Originally scheduled to move in June 2025, she still had no confirmed move-in date as of February 2026. She also said the uncertainty forced her to postpone medical procedures.
In response to public pressure, the Housing and Dignity Project—which includes The Village, Wood Street Commons, and Oakland Revealed—held a rally outside the building on February 10, urging the City of Oakland, Alameda County, developers, and property managers to clarify the situation and provide immediate support.
The following day, EBALDC, Abode Services, and Alameda County’s Housing and Homelessness representatives met with advocates and families. According to the coalition, county officials arranged long-term shelter placements for the nine affected households, where they will remain until the apartments are ready.
Advocates say Alameda County Director Jonathan Russell played a key role in securing those placements within 24 hours. While they welcomed the outcome, they emphasized that many more families may still be affected.
The exact cause of the delay remains unclear. Different explanations have been given at various times, including city inspection issues and possible copper wiring theft at the site, though on-site security reportedly saw no evidence of break-ins. EBALDC and Abode Services have not issued a public explanation.
Advocates estimate that up to 100 households may have been matched to units in the building and are calling for confirmation that all are being properly accounted for and supported.
For now, families remain in temporary housing, still waiting for the permanent homes they were expected to move into months ago.