Portland Breaks Ground on Innovative Affordable Housing Complex for Disabled Residents

Project Overview: Specialized Housing Meets Community Needs

Unit Breakdown and Affordability

The 64-unit complex will feature:

• 22 fully accessible apartments with wraparound services from nonprofit Community Vision
• 42 additional affordable units for low-income households
• Income-restricted pricing (0-30% AMI for disability units, 31-60% AMI for others)

Innovative Design Features

Architects incorporated multiple accessibility elements:

• Double-entry vestibules for transit riders
• Secure lobby waiting areas
• Enhanced crosswalks and loading zones
• Proximity to high-frequency bus lines (14-Hawthorne/Foster)

Funding and Community Impact

Metro Housing Bond at Work

The project utilizes funds from the 2018 voter-approved $652.8 million Metro Affordable Housing Bond, which aims to create 12,000 homes across the region. Additional funding comes from:

• $325,000 Metro TOD Grant (transit-oriented development)
• Portland Clean Energy Fund (for energy-efficient AC units)
• Private philanthropic contributions

Neighborhood Context

73Foster continues the success of nearby 72Foster (opened 2019), creating an affordable housing corridor along SE Foster Road. The location provides:

• 1/2 mile walk score of 85 (very walkable)
• Access to 5 grocery stores within 1 mile
• Proximity to Adventist Medical Center

Services and Sustainability

Onsite Support Programs

Community Vision will provide:

• Independent living skills training
• Case management services
• Social/recreational programming
• Healthcare coordination

Eco-Conscious Features

The development includes:

• Mini-split AC/heat systems (reducing energy costs by 30%)
• Solar-ready infrastructure
• Xeriscaped common areas (low-water landscaping)

Community Reactions

Developer Perspective

"73Foster represents our commitment to housing justice," said REACH CEO Margaret Salazar. "These aren't just apartments—they're homes where people with disabilities can thrive with dignity."

Future Resident Voices

Disability advocate James Chen, who consulted on the design, noted: "The transit access and secure entryways address major barriers our community faces. This sets a new standard for inclusive housing."

Timeline and Next Steps

• August 2025: Groundbreaking ceremony
• Spring 2027: Expected completion
• Summer 2027: First move-ins
• 2028: Planned expansion of services