April 26, 2011

This morning, Nick joined Portland Housing Bureau (PHB) Director Margaret Van Vliet, Dee Walsh from local non-profit REACH CDC, the Veterans Administration, and neighborhood leaders to break ground on Block 49, South Waterfront's first affordable housing development.

When construction is completed next year, the project will bring more than 200 affordable apartments to the neighborhood - 42 of which will be reserved for low-income veterans.

"This is the project that no one thought we could pull off," Nick told the Oregonian. "With the hand we were dealt, we're delivering a spectacular project with the perfect non-profit partner."

Construction on the LEED Silver building will generate 240 living-wage jobs and apprenticeship opportunities for our community.

Equity is at the center of PHB's mission: we're targeting more than 25% of construction costs for contracts with businesses owned by women and minorities.

Congratulations to Margaret and all of our project partners on this historic day.

Commissioner Fish's remarks

"South Waterfront District Becoming More Affordable"

OPB

"Portland digs into Block 49 space"

Portland Business Journal

"South Waterfront affordable housing project breaks ground"

Portland Tribune

"Portland Breaks Ground On Fulfilling South Waterfront Affordable Housing Promise"

OPB

"Breaking Ground on Affordable Housing"

Portland Mercur

Fact Sheet

FAQ

REACH CDC