The Avila Ranch Housing Project broke ground in San Luis Obispo Thursday.
The project has been in the works for more than nine years. It will create more than 720 houses in the area.
Developers say they do not know how much each home will cost. They do say, around 100 homes and apartments are specifically designated as affordable housing.
"With every house sold, the developers will also donate one-tenth of one percent to the SLO Community Foundation." said Joshua Peterson, president and owner of Wathen Castanos Homes.
They will also be giving two bikes per home. Developers hope residents will use the bikes to enjoy the 10 parks and miles of trails the space will offer.
The San Luis Obispo city manager says this project is coming at a perfect time.
"We were able to take some property that was zoned for over two million square feet of commercial and really address jobs, housing balance and provide housing for families, for workers for people and make sure that people have a place to live in San Luis Obispo," said Derek Johnson, city manager for San Luis Obispo.
He says this project is unique in that to purchase a home, buyers have to already live or work in the area.
It is estimated to be completed in 2021.
