Posted
TIGARD, OR. – This Thursday, the Housing Authority of Washington County, along with local officials and partners, will celebrate the beginning of a comprehensive 15-month renovation project to modernize 172 affordable homes for the residents of Woodspring Apartments. This initiative will significantly improve the quality of life for the hundreds of people who call Woodspring home and preserve the affordability of these homes for thousands of low-income residents of Washington County for decades to come.
In 2021, the seniors who called Woodspring home realized that their homes would become unaffordable as key regulations associated with a 1991 Low-Income Housing Tax Credits agreement were expiring. Residents were quick to mobilize and asked the Board of County Commissioners to intervene. Thanks to resources through Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), Washington County purchased Woodspring from its previous owner in 2023 to preserve the affordable housing community.
Necessary renovations on the 30+ year old community began this month and will extend the lifespan of the buildings, enhance energy efficiency, improve accessibility, and modernize resident living spaces. Work includes comprehensive building exterior upgrades like new siding, roofs, windows, site improvements for pedestrian safety, unit updates like new appliances, fixtures, ADA conversions, and common area enhancements.
This undertaking will be completed thanks to public-private partnerships with our development consultant, Brawner, on the ground works by Walsh Construction, and designs by MWA Architects. Crucial funding included a Banner Bank loan, federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits via OHCS, and leveraged investments from RBC.
“Just last month our community came together to celebrate the completion of the Affordable Housing Preservation Portfolio Rehabilitation Project, and here we are yet again, demonstrating our commitment to increasing housing stability for our Washington County residents with Woodspring Apartments,” stated Washington County Chair Kathryn Harrington. “I am eager to welcome residents back to upgraded homes in December 2026.”
Jill Grossman, a resident who will speak at the event and is the secretary of the Woodspring Tenants Association, said, “We were relieved when Washington County purchased Woodspring Apartments and preserved it as a rent-controlled property. Now it's time for much-needed renovations, and our community looks forward to having a safer, more comfortable living environment for years to come.”
ABOUT HOUSING AUTHORITY OF WASHINGTON COUNTY: The Housing Authority of Washington County has been providing and developing affordable housing opportunities for over 50 years. Today, the effort continues with the County’s Department of Housing Services, formed in 1992 to administer both its housing activities and programs, and those of Washington County. Its mission is to provide a continuum of affordable housing options that promote community strength.
Related
