This development provides 100 affordable family townhomes on a nearly 7.2 acre site. The site is located within a two block walk of the CalTrans Station, a day care center and major shopping. A transit stop is located at the development's entry and all residents are provided free "Eco passes". The design is based upon the City of Morgan Hill's desire for a high quality, rural appearance.

The townhouses are arranged in 4-plexes and 5-plexes around a central spine that includes: two play structures, a solar heated swimming pool and solar heated shower and a recreation building. The recreation building includes: a large lobby, a kitchen room, a computer lounge, an interview room and the manager's office. The manager's office is furnished with "Baltix" wheatboard furniture.

Photovoltaic panels on the carports and recreation building supplies 95% of the common area/recreation building's electricity. The development exceeds California's Title 24 Energy Requirements by 25%.

Each townhouse unit has a private, fenced back yard. Heating and air-conditioning is provided by a gas-fueled, hydronic system. All carpeting is 78% or greater recycled content and all appliances are gas, "energy-star" appliances.

Resident services include: free "Eco passes" for transit to all residents; an after-school homework club facilitated by MACSA and a savings club sponsored by CitiBank.

Status: 62 units completed October 2003, 38 units start construction April 2004
Architect: Fisher Friedman Associates AIA
Contractor: L&D Construction

Flex Your Power Award for Murphy Ranch San Jose Mercury News: Article on Murphy Ranch Housing and Community Development Features Murphy Ranch