PORTLAND, Ore. — A nearly $50 million, 146-unit affordable housing project opened in Northwest Portland’s Historic Alphabet District on Monday.
Emmons Place, sponsored by Northwest Housing Alternative (NHA), includes 144 studios offered at or below 30% to 60% of the Area Median Income, which for a two-person income household ranges from $27,090 to $54,180. The building also includes two units for property managers.
Around 48 of the studios will be dedicated housing for seniors exiting homelessness through Permanent Supportive Housing services by Northwest Pilot Project, a nonprofit that connects people aged 55 or older to low-income rental housing.
"Emmons Place represents a milestone in our collective commitment to addressing the affordable housing crisis," said Rep. Maxine Dexter (HD-33). "The collaboration between NHA and its partners showcases a dedication to inclusivity and providing a home for vulnerable populations. I am proud to see this cherished resource come to life in my district. It is already creating a vibrant and supportive community that will have ripple effects throughout the neighborhood, community, city and state."
The project received approximately $19.7 million through the Portland Housing Bond, passed by voters in 2016 to allocate $258.4 million to create 1,300 affordable homes. It also received funds from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), the Metro Transit-Oriented Development Program, Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS), Home Forward and KeyBank.
The building was named after longtime affordable housing advocate Susan Emmons, who serves on the bond's oversight committee. The project marks the 11th development to open as part of the Portland Housing Bond. The bond has funded more than 1,850 units, according to the Portland Housing Bond's website.
Emmons Place was completed in two phases: The south building opened in February last year with 47 units of Permanent Supportive Housing and the North Building, containing the remaining 97 affordable homes, completed in December 2023. The apartment complex combines new construction with the preservation of a century-old building.
"I am overwhelmed with pride and joy to stand with this community today and celebrate the opening of Emmons Place," Emmons said. "This community embodies the culmination of a lifelong dedication to affordable housing and community advocacy. This development underscores the enduring importance of accessible housing and creating a place called home."
