The Howard

Project rendering courtesy of GLO Architecture

The Howard (also known as Iris Avenue Trolley Apartments) is an under review 64-unit affordable transit-oriented development project on the corner of Howard Avenue and Iris Avenue, located a short distance from major transit hub Iris Avenue Transit Center. The property originally consisted of two single family structures until the owner demolished both in 2022. Building permits for the project were applied for in May 2026.

Site plan courtesy of GLO Architecture

The Howard is planned to be 100% affordable, with 64 units of affordable apartments consisting of 30 one-bedroom, 18 two-bedroom, and 16 three-bedroom units. Amenities for the development are vast, and include a community center and gardens, an after-school program, bicycle storage, EV charging, a playground, and grills, among others.

One of the major advantages of the development is its proximity to high-quality transit. It is directly across the street from Iris Avenue Transit Center, a major bus and Trolley hub. Connections can be made here to numerous transit routes, such as the Blue Line to San Ysidro, Downtown, and UTC, Rapid 227 to Otay Mesa, and other local bus routes serving the South Bay and Coronado.

The Howard is one of two projects set to be built adjacent to the bustling transit hub, the other being the Trolley Stop Apartments located on what was once a private tow lot near the corner of Beyer Boulevard and Iris Avenue. Together, these projects will help bring affordable housing right to the doorstep of one of the region’s busiest transit centers.