Reinventing Homes, Rebuilding Communities

I’ll never forget the day I first stepped onto the Brownfield Road project site in Sequim, Washington. The air was crisp, the sky a brilliant blue, and the sense of possibility hung thick in the atmosphere. As I surveyed the expanse of land, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement – this was the future, unfolding right before my eyes.

You see, Clallam County, like many rural communities across the United States, has been grappling with a critical shortage of affordable housing. Skyrocketing home prices and dwindling inventory have left far too many families struggling to find a place to call home. But thanks to the tireless efforts of the Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County team and the unwavering support of our local leaders, we’re about to change that.

The Brownfield Road project is just one piece of a larger puzzle that’s taking shape in our community. From the Makah Indian Tribe’s innovative duplex housing initiative to the transformative Port Angeles Waterfront Center, Clallam County is proving that when we come together, remarkable things can happen.

Unlocking Affordable Homes in Sequim

Let’s start with the Brownfield Road project, a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community rallies behind a common cause. This ambitious undertaking, spearheaded by the Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County, aims to build as many as 53 affordable homes right here in Sequim.

As Congressman Derek Kilmer recently announced, the project has secured a whopping $800,000 in federal funding to kickstart the infrastructure development – think roads, sidewalks, lighting, and utility connections. With this critical support, the Brownfield Road project is poised to have its infrastructure completed by the end of 2024, paving the way for home construction to begin in early 2025.

But this project is about so much more than just building houses. As Colleen Robinson, the CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County, eloquently put it, “This project embodies a strategic investment in our community, supporting the individuals and families who will call these houses their homes.” By providing affordable workforce housing, the initiative will enable critical community workers, emergency responders, and other essential staff to reside in the same neighborhoods they serve, strengthening the fabric of our community.

And the benefits don’t stop there. The Brownfield Road project is designed to have a ripple effect throughout the local and regional economies. As Congressman Kilmer noted, the project will “stimulate local businesses, create jobs, and generate demand in the broader economy” by utilizing local contractors and businesses for the infrastructure development and home construction.

Empowering the Makah Tribe

While the Brownfield Road project is making waves in Sequim, the Makah Indian Tribe is making its own mark on the affordable housing landscape in Clallam County. With an $800,000 infusion of federal funding, the tribe is embarking on a transformative duplex housing project aimed at addressing the chronic shortage of on-reservation housing.

As Timothy Greene, the Chairman of the Makah Tribe, eloquently explained, “Our housing shortage directly impacts the Tribe’s ability to hire and retain other essential professional staff such as Neah Bay Public Safety, teachers for Cape Flattery School District, and medical professionals at the Sophie Trettevick Indian Health Center. All of these roles rely on long-term community relationships and an understanding of social and cultural context to be successful, making staff retention critical.”

By investing in this strategic initiative, the Makah Tribe is not only improving the lives of its own members but also ensuring the continued vitality of critical community services like healthcare, education, and public safety. It’s a shining example of how affordable housing initiatives can have far-reaching, positive impacts on a community.

Revitalizing the Port Angeles Waterfront

But the affordable housing story in Clallam County doesn’t end there. In the heart of Port Angeles, the Port Angeles Waterfront Center is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks in part to $1 million in federal funding secured by Congressman Kilmer.

The centerpiece of this project is the Field Arts & Events Hall, a state-of-the-art venue that is poised to become a hub of cultural activity and community gathering. But beyond its role as a premier event space, the Waterfront Center is also expected to have a significant economic impact, generating over $10 million in annual sales and services, creating more than 300 permanent jobs, and contributing over $500,000 in additional state and local taxes.

As Kate Dexter, the Mayor of Port Angeles, eloquently put it, “The entire campus and Field Hall Building is already enhancing the quality of life for businesses, residents, and visitors. We want to thank Derek for his continued support of Port Angeles and all the work he does for our community.”

A Brighter Future on the Horizon

As I stand here on the Brownfield Road project site, I can’t help but feel a sense of optimism and pride. These affordable housing initiatives in Clallam County are more than just bricks and mortar – they’re the foundations upon which we’re building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

It’s not just about creating affordable homes; it’s about empowering our communities, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive. And with the unwavering support of our local leaders, the tireless efforts of organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Makah Tribe, and the unwavering commitment of our community, I know that we’re well on our way to making that vision a reality.

So, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some work to do. After all, the future of Clallam County is just getting started, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish next. Join us on this journey – I promise it’ll be one heck of a ride.