LOCAL NEWS
Northgate and South Park earmarked for affordable housing boost
The City of Seattle authorized an additional $22 million in new investments — made by the Office of Housing — for more affordable housing.
With this additional funding, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell nearly doubled the budget to $48 million to support the production of 267 new rent- and income-restricted homes in the Northgate and South Park neighborhoods. Harrell’s goal is to have 450 affordable homes.
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Earlier this year, Harrell acquired Dockside Apartments and Sea Mar Beacon Hill, two buildings that were converted into affordable housing.
In addition to the increase in funds, a Housing Sub-Cabinet was formed in order to approve all affordable housing project permits within 12 months of submission. The Housing Sub-Cabinet will share data, coordinate actions, and reduce barriers to swift construction of all types of housing.
“Our region’s housing affordability crisis demands a diversified and comprehensive response that meets the scale of this challenge,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell in a prepared statement. “Affordable, community-driven housing and supportive services are essential for combating this crisis and preventing displacement in the first place. Our ‘One Seattle‘ agenda will continue to drive bold investments and innovative solutions, strong community partnerships, and an unyielding commitment to ensuring Seattle is a livable city for all.”
Sea Mar’s South Park Family Housing will bring 77 homes to the South Park Neighborhood with a focus on serving low-income families and individuals, including a clinic operated by Sea Mar Community Health on the ground floor. GMD Development’s Northgate Family Housing will supply 190 homes to the Northgate Neighborhood.
“The need for affordable housing in Seattle is greater than ever and we need to do everything we can to keep increasing the city’s supply of affordable housing,” said Maiko Winkler-Chin, Director of the Office of Housing. “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of city staff, leadership, and our community partners, the investments announced today are another step forward in addressing housing affordability throughout our city.”
