Redeveloping the COMB Block

Portland Housing Authority (PHA) is beginning the process of redeveloping the COMB Block property, which currently consists of four 3-story buildings, each with 10 two-bedroom apartments. The existing buildings were constructed in 1972 and are facing significant physical needs due to their age and condition. To further progress PHA's mission and 2015 Strategic Vision Plan, redevelopment of the COMB Block property in the East Bayside neighborhood has been identified as a priority project. The new development will not only progress PHA's mission and strategic vision, but will provide much needed affordable housing to low and very-low income households in Portland. 

Redevelopment of the site will include the demolition of the four existing buildings, followed by a first phase of new development. The first phase of new construction will include 55 residential units, with at least 50 units reserved for low and very-low income households. The building will be constructed to meet Passive House standard with energy efficient building materials, design, and mechanical systems. The building is still in the midst of the design process but significant consideration has been taken to design a building that fits within the character of the site. Situated on the corner of Boyd Street and Oxford Street the immediate neighbors of this building will be Bayside Anchor, a mixed-income property co-owned by PHA and Avesta Housing, and the community garden on Boyd Street managed by Cultivating Communities. 

Once construction is complete, this first phase will offer 55 apartments including both affordable and market-rate units. Bedroom sizes will range from one-bedroom to three-bedroom apartments to accommodate families of all sizes. 11 apartments will be designed to be accessible for persons with physical disabilities. 

Anticipated Timeline

Anticipated Site Improvements:

Accessible green space

Increased pedestrian connectivity

New street trees and shaded open space

Community Benefits

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