Research & Innovations

From 2 News Nevada:

The Reno Housing Authority is expanding their permanent supportive housing with a groundbreaking ceremony for their newest development called "Hope Landing."

It will be a 15-unit development and a chance to provide even more stability, resources, and opportunities to thrive for their residents who have experienced homelessness.

Dr. Hilary Lopez, executive director for the Reno Housing Authority, says, "We know that there's a dire need for all types of affordable housing throughout our community, and Hope Landing will provide specifically 15 units of permanent supportive housing targeted towards those who are chronically homeless and have incomes at or below 30% of area median incomes... some of our most vulnerable community members."

She speaks on the resources they provide as well.

Some of the things that make Hope Landing so special are that we're not only able to provide permanent, long-term, quality, affordable housing, but it will also include onsite supportive services. And so, residents who live here will be able to access case management workforce development assistance and other types of supportive services."

Dr. Lopez tells us for these projects, collaboration is key. They were able to access funding for the development of the project but also for the resources they provide.

"We're very fortunate that we were able to access a variety of different funds to really make this project come together for the development piece. We were able to work with our board to utilize some of Reno Housing Authority's own funds made possible through our federal funding streams for this project as well as money through the state of Nevada."

They anticipate it's going to take about 12 months to bring this project to finality and start leasing.

"We're going to be demolishing the current structures within about the next two weeks and then moving right into construction, about a 12-month construction schedule, so again, just looking forward to welcoming the first 15 residents here in spring 2027."

From the King County Housing Authority's press release:

The King County Housing Authority (KCHA) today celebrated the grand opening of Kirkland Heights, a newly redeveloped affordable housing community that preserves long-standing affordability while expanding housing options for families in Kirkland.

This marks the completion of a multi-year transformation of the 13-acre site into a modern, garden-style community with 276 affordable rental homes across 27 buildings, along with upgraded infrastructure and new amenities designed to support healthy, stable living for residents. Kirkland Heights offers an average affordability of 60% AMI, including 106 project-based Section 8 vouchers, and offers rental homes with multiple bedrooms designed to accommodate families with children.

Originally built in 1970 as a 180-unit community financed through federal housing programs, the property was then called “Aero Kirkland” and was initially developed by the International Association of Machinists to support Boeing workers during a period of economic change.

Over time, as Kirkland experienced a tech boom and rents were rising, the need to preserve affordable housing became more urgent. In 2019, KCHA acquired the property to ensure long-term affordability and protect residents from displacement.

Beginning in 2022, KCHA undertook a full redevelopment. Rather than tear down the existing buildings and risk displacement of current residents, KCHA chose to carefully phase construction to minimize displacement and allow most families to remain on-site throughout the project.

KCHA rehabilitated the 180 existing units and added 96 new units by adding a third floor to several 8-plexes and constructing two new 24-plexes, significantly expanding housing opportunities while modernizing aging buildings and infrastructure.

The revitalized community now features a new community building, outdoor gathering spaces, playgrounds, gardens, and recreational amenities, creating a welcoming environment designed to strengthen connections among residents. The attractive aesthetic seamlessly integrates with the surrounding neighborhood.

Kirkland Heights is designed to meet Washington State’s Evergreen Sustainable Development Standard (ESDS) with solar PV systems generating more than 846,000 kWh per year, 19 EV charging stations, centralized water-heating systems at no cost to residents, durable materials, and in-unit washers/dryers. Stormwater management includes multiple detention facilities and a fully renewed storm system. Such a sustainability-forward approach is rarely seen at this scale in suburban rehabilitations, and the modern, efficient systems and reduced utility burdens ensure long-term affordability.

At a time when housing costs continue to rise across King County, the project demonstrates how strategic investment can both preserve existing affordable housing and expand supply in high-opportunity communities.

When housing is abundant and affordable, our whole community benefits.

Financing & Partners

The project is funded through 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Renewable Energy Tax Credits, tax-exempt bonds, and investments from King County, ARCH (A Regional Coalition for Housing), and KCHA, with a total construction investment of $125 million over three years. The City of Kirkland provided a waiver of impact fees.

KCHA is the project sponsor, developer, general partner of the LIHTC partnership, and long-term steward. RBC Capital Markets is the syndicator and JPM is the investor, supporting tax credit equity. SMR Architects led design, Allied Construction Associates completed the construction, Puget Sound Solar provided solar infrastructure, and Allied Residential will operate the completed property.

What people are saying

“Kirkland Heights tells a powerful story about what it means to preserve community. For more than 50 years, this property has provided homes for working families. Today, we are building on that legacy—ensuring that current and future residents have access to stable, affordable homes. This redevelopment reflects our commitment to invest for the long term and to create places where people can thrive.” – Robin Walls, President and CEO of the King County Housing Authority.

“The skyrocketing cost of rent and housing is one of the biggest pain points families are facing right now. One of the most effective ways to address this crisis is to build more affordable housing. This development is a great example of the housing we need to build across our region and the country so families can live, work, and play close to home. This project wouldn’t have been possible without the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, the most successful affordable housing supply program in our country. I’ve long been a leader in supporting and expanding this program so we can build more affordable housing faster.” – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01)

“Projects like Kirkland Heights are a key part of our plan to address housing affordability across our region. Through partnership and long-term investment, we are making sure that people can live closer to where they work, closer to great schools, and in a place where, together, we can build a strong community now and in the future.” – Kelli Curtis, Mayor of Kirkland

“Creating more homes at more price points is essential to keeping Kirkland an inclusive and livable community. Renovation projects that create additional capacity, like Kirkland Heights, help provide a range of housing options that strengthen the long-term stability of our community.” – Neal Black, Kirkland Deputy Mayor and KCHA Board Commissioner

“Kirkland Heights represents both a new beginning and a continuation of a proud legacy. More than 50 years ago, this community was created by the Machinists Union to provide stable, affordable homes for working families during a time of economic uncertainty. Today, that same spirit lives on in this redevelopment—preserving affordability, honoring the people who built this community, and ensuring that future generations of workers and their families can have a home in Kirkland.” — Richard Jackson, District Secretary-Treasurer for the International Association of Machinists District 751 and KCHA Board Commissioner

“Kirkland Heights shows what’s possible when cities and regional partners work together to preserve and expand affordable housing. ARCH is proud to invest in a redevelopment that keeps long-time residents in place while creating new opportunities for families across East King County.” — Lindsay Masters, Executive Director of ARCH

“J.P. Morgan is proud to invest in Kirkland Heights, a transformative affordable housing redevelopment in Kirkland, Washington that will renovate 180 existing apartments and add 96 new units bringing the community to 276 income-restricted units, including apartments set aside for residents with disabilities. We’re honored to partner with the King County Housing Authority and RBC Community Investments on this impactful project that expands housing access for families across the Seattle region.” – Amber Beeman, Executive Director, J.P. Morgan Tax Oriented Investments

From the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority's press release:

The Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), alongside The Community Builders (TCB), the City of Cleveland, and project partners, officially celebrated the grand opening of Woodhill Station East on May 15. This milestone marks the completion of the third phase and the final off-site component of the Buckeye-Woodhill Choice Transformation. 

The comprehensive redevelopment plan is transforming the former 1930s era Woodhill Homes into a modern, vibrant neighborhood. Supported by a $35 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant awarded in 2021, as well as a $10 million supplemental grant in 2023, the multi-phase initiative will ultimately deliver approximately 638 new homes and public amenities to the Buckeye-Woodhill community. 

“The opening of Woodhill Station East marks a key moment in the Buckeye-Woodhill Choice Transformation,” said Jeffery K. Patterson, Chief Executive Officer of CMHA. “The first three phases have already begun to reshape how residents experience their community, bringing new, high-quality homes and laying foundations for retail opportunities.” 

Located at the corner of Buckeye Road and Woodhill Road, this newest phase adds 64 high-quality rental homes to the neighborhood, featuring 54 affordable apartments and 10 market-rate units for individuals and families. The building also includes commercial space designed to host up to three local retail tenants. 

Residents of Woodhill Station East will enjoy a full suite of modern community amenities, including a fitness center, lounges, a community room, landscaped greenspace, and an outdoor patio for gatherings. Additionally, all units are pre-wired for low-cost, high-speed internet service through Digital-C, virtually connecting residents to education and employment opportunities. 

The transit-oriented development is conveniently situated near public transportation, providing easy access to jobs and amenities. To ensure long-term resident success, TCB Community Life case managers will be based on-site to provide supportive programming in workforce development, asset building, youth development, education, and health and wellness. 

“Woodhill Station East represents the future of equitable development in Cleveland,” added Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “This project is another major step forward in the transformation of Buckeye-Woodhill and reflects what’s possible when strong public, private, and community partners come together around a shared vision.”