The Portland Housing Bureau (PHB) is injecting some much-needed funds into affordable housing with a recent award of $4.76 million. This allocation, authorized through the Last Gap Round Two solicitation, is earmarked for The Jade, a 40-unit development targeted to bolster affordable living spaces in a neighborhood that could use it. Thanks to a combination of resources, including $4.1 million from the Metro Affordable Housing Bond funds and a $600,000 contribution of Multnomah County general funds, this project is slated to rise in the Powellhurst-Gilbert area, nestled between 82nd Ave. and I-205.

The planned development, a cooperative effort by APANO and Gorman & Company, features 40 new units within the cultural hub of the Jade District, an area known for its Asian-American commercial and cultural vibrancy. According to a statement from the Portland Housing Bureau, out of the numerous accommodations, 26 of them will be two or three-bedroom domiciles catering to larger households, and five of the units will offer shelter to households with incomes at 30% of the area median income (AMI), targeting the most financially vulnerable. Community-centric amenities are on the blueprint too, including a couple of courtyards, a community garden, and a children's play area.

"This project advances an ambitious community created vision for the district supported by the EPA's Greening America's Communities program that will help keep our community rooted in place," Duncan Hwang, APANO Community Development Director, conveyed in an interview with the Portland Housing Bureau. Notably, the development will endeavor to integrate sustainable aspects like a solar array, green building materials, and an efficient HVAC system to ensure a reduced carbon footprint while housing area families.

Kevin Kellogg, the Pacific Northwest Market President for Gorman & Company, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaborative project, stating, "We are truly excited and grateful to our non-profit partner APANO, and our financing partners who are committed to joining us on this impactful journey. The Jade is just the first step in addressing the critical housing needs of this community." He recognized the various contributors to the cause, including PHB, Metro, OHCS, NOAH, Home Forward, and Raza Development Fund, underscoring their joint commitment to the affordable housing initiative and sustainability goals of the area.

As The Jade prepares to offer a blend of familial, sustainable, and culturally focused living spaces, PHB is gearing up to announce additional Metro Housing Bond awards from the Last Gap Round Two solicitation in the coming days. These efforts are a clear signal of the city's dedication to addressing the housing crisis, and for many marginalized residents, a ray of hope in their search for affordable homes.