Unlocking the Door to Prosperity: Affordable Housing in Clallam
As someone who has called the beautiful Clallam County home for the better part of my life, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible resilience and community spirit that defines this place. But I’ve also seen the challenges that too many families face when it comes to finding affordable, safe, and stable housing. It’s a crisis that has only been exacerbated by the pandemic, leaving far too many of our neighbors struggling to keep a roof over their heads.
That’s why I’m thrilled to share the stories of the incredible organizations and leaders who are working tirelessly to change that narrative. From the Port Angeles Waterfront Center’s Field Hall project to the Makah Tribe’s essential worker housing and Habitat for Humanity’s Brownfield Road development, these initiatives are not just transforming the physical landscape – they’re empowering families, strengthening communities, and paving the way for a brighter future.
Revitalizing the Port Angeles Waterfront
Let’s start with the Port Angeles Waterfront Center, a project that’s been a labor of love for our community for years. Thanks to the tireless efforts of local leaders and the unwavering support of Congressman Derek Kilmer, this visionary endeavor is finally coming to life.
The $26 million in federal funding secured by Congressman Kilmer is a game-changer, not just for the center itself, but for the entire region. The centerpiece of this project is the stunning Field Hall, a state-of-the-art meeting and performance space that will serve as a hub for community events, educational opportunities, and economic growth.
“Field Hall is poised to transform the Port Angeles waterfront not only as a premier venue for public gatherings and events, but also as a catalyst for economic growth and community development,” Congressman Kilmer shared. And he’s not wrong – this facility is expected to generate 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.
But the true magic of the Port Angeles Waterfront Center goes beyond the numbers. It’s about the way it will bring our community together, fostering connections, celebrating our diverse cultural heritage, and providing a space for young people to explore their passions and unlock their full potential. As Mayor Kate Dexter eloquently put it, “our community members, visitors, and future generations will have access to the cultural diversity and amenities of the Port Angeles Waterfront Center Campus.”
Empowering the Makah Tribe
While the Port Angeles Waterfront Center project is a shining example of what’s possible when a community comes together, the Makah Tribe’s essential worker housing initiative is a testament to the power of self-determination and resilience.
The $800,000 in federal funding secured by Congressman Kilmer will allow the Makah Tribe to build a new duplex housing project, addressing the chronic shortage of on-reservation housing that has long plagued the community.
“This project not only addresses vital community needs, but will stand as an example of sustainable development for the Tribe,” Congressman Kilmer explained. And he’s absolutely right – this initiative is so much more than just a collection of homes. It’s a lifeline for the essential workers who keep the Makah Reservation’s healthcare, public safety, and education systems running.
As Makah Tribe Chairman Timothy Greene shared, “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 providing stable, affordable housing for these crucial community members, the Makah Tribe is not only strengthening its own foundation, but setting an example for sustainable development that can be replicated across the region and beyond.
Building Homes, Empowering Lives: Habitat for Humanity’s Brownfield Road Project
While the Port Angeles Waterfront Center and the Makah Tribe’s essential worker housing initiatives are shaping the physical landscape of Clallam County, Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County is tackling the affordable housing crisis from a different angle – one home at a time.
The organization’s $800,000 in federal funding for the Brownfield Road Project in Sequim is a game-changer, enabling the construction of 42 affordable homes for hardworking families and essential workers.
“This project embodies a strategic investment in our community, supporting the individuals and families who will call these houses their homes,” Congressman Kilmer enthusiastically explained. And he’s absolutely right – Habitat for Humanity’s work isn’t just about building houses; it’s about transforming lives and strengthening the very fabric of our communities.
As Colleen Robinson, the CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County, so eloquently put it, “Through shelter, we empower and strengthen our community.” And that’s precisely what this project aims to do. By providing affordable, stable housing, Habitat for Humanity is helping families break the cycle of poverty, achieve financial security, and build a foundation for long-term success.
But the benefits of this initiative extend far beyond the individual families it serves. As Colleen McAleer, the Executive Director of the Clallam County Economic Development Council, pointed out, “Clallam County has ranked as one of the least affordable places to buy a home in the state according to the affordability index published by the University of Washington’s Center for Real Estate Research. While we may not be alone in the housing crisis, our rural community has been particularly hard hit by it.”
By addressing this critical need, the Brownfield Road Project is not only improving the lives of its residents, but also fueling economic growth, fostering community resilience, and positioning Clallam County for a brighter, more prosperous future.
A Vision for the Future: Affordable Housing in Clallam County
As I reflect on the transformative work being done by these incredible organizations, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of hope and optimism for the future of Clallam County. These initiatives aren’t just about bricks and mortar; they’re about empowering families, strengthening communities, and unlocking the full potential of this remarkable region.
And the best part? This is just the beginning. With leaders like Congressman Kilmer, Mayor Dexter, Chairman Greene, and the dedicated teams at the Port Angeles Waterfront Center, the Makah Tribe, and Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County, I know that the future is bright.
So, if you’re wondering how you can get involved and be a part of this incredible journey, I encourage you to visit https://www.hacc-housing.org/ to learn more about the affordable housing solutions being implemented right here in Clallam County. Together, we can create a community where every family has a safe, affordable place to call home – and in the process, unlock the door to a future filled with prosperity, opportunity, and endless possibilities.