GHC and GHURA break ground on $1.5M Lada Gardens renovation; More funding sought for Guma As-Atdas

BY SKYLER OBISPO
Journal Staff

The Guam Housing Corp. and the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority announced the $1.5 million renovation of 16 low-income rental units within the Lada Gardens community.

A ground breaking was held for the renovation on Dec. 29 and is funded through the American Rescue Plan and led by GHC who manages the properties.

Genesis Tech Corp. will serve as the project’s contractor.

In a statement, Lieutenant Governor Joshua F. Tenorio said the demand for affordable housing is high and the renovation is a “much-needed investment.”

Data supports that assessment. An Aug. 20 report by the Office of Public Accountability shows that 705 of the 750 housing units managed by the GHURA were occupied in 2024, a 94% occupancy rate.

Similarly, the GHC’s fiscal 2024 annual report shows a year-over-year increase in processed rental applications, while vacancy rates declined—both indicators of growing demand for affordable housing on Guam.

“As our economy grows, we must address affordability while creating future pathways to homeownership and financing for our families,” Tenorio said.

Lada Gardens is a 115-unit community built in the 1960s and phase one of renovations happened in 2022, where 23 units were renovated. Phase two will include the renovations of the 16-unit rentals.

GHC told the Journal the project is expected to be completed by November 2026.

A ribbon cutting will be held once the renovations are completed, Adelup said.

GHC is also seeking $2.6 million in additional funding for refurbishments for the 24-unit apartment buildings at Guma As-Atdas, which are on the site of the proposed Temporary Simon Sanchez High School.

“[These units] are being considered for inclusion in the overall project,” GHC told the Journal. “The units are anticipated to be used as classroom and administrative spaces upon completion of the temporary campus project.” mbj