Coalition Hopes To Turn South Sacramento Motel Site Into Community Gem

SOUTH SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — A plot of land notorious for crime and blight in South Sacramento may be getting a facelift, as community activists and the city are breathing new life into the once infamous San Juan Motel.

The motel on Stockton Boulevard was condemned in 2000, as dozens of families were evacuated. It was riddled with more than just code violations—police say it was plagued with crime, drugs and prostitution.

The city demolished the motel about five years ago and bought the land for $4 million. But since then, it's been a vacant lot.

Now, several community nonprofits, the city and Sacramento County have formed a coalition to bring purpose back to the block.

"Mixed-use housing with a community garden. Great bike and pedestrian infrastructure and improve transportation access," said Charles Mason.

Rudy Arocan is homeless and lives along Stockton Boulevard. He likes the idea, but lives a difficult reality on Stockton Street where crime remains common.

The coalition is now fortified with $130,000 from several nonprofits to create a development plan. Actual construction is expected to cost thousands more.

The city and community leaders are planning several town hall meetings to get more community input.