REACH Secures over $10M in HUD and PCEF Funding for Climate-Resilient Affordable Housing
REACH is proud to announce the receipt of more than $10 million in new public funding to support critical climate resilience and energy efficiency upgrades across five of our affordable housing properties in Portland: Powell Blvd Apartments, Admiral, Albina Corner, Allen Fremont, and Walnut Park. This substantial investment comes from two major sources: $5.9 million awarded by the Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF) and $4.56 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
These funds will enable REACH to advance its leadership in sustainable, energy-efficient affordable housing at a time when the climate crisis continues to pose challenges for communities across the region. As Portland grapples with extreme weather events like wildfires, heat domes and freezing temperatures, this funding will support essential capital repairs and green upgrades that will improve the livability of our properties while reducing energy costs for residents and lowering their environmental impact.
The PCEF grant will specifically fund renewable energy projects, enhance energy efficiency, and improve climate resilience in three REACH properties in Northeast Portland: Albina Corner, Allen Fremont Plaza, and Walnut Park. The improvements, which include installing rooftop solar and ductless heat pumps, will reduce energy consumption by an estimated 45%, cutting energy costs and increasing resident comfort.
The $4.56 million from HUD will further support climate resilience and energy efficiency upgrades across two additional properties: Powell Boulevard Apartments and The Admiral Apartments. These funds will be used for comprehensive renovations, modernizing building systems to withstand the impacts of climate change while reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with Portland’s ambitious climate goals.
“We are deeply grateful to both the City of Portland and HUD for this vital investment in our community,” said Margaret Salazar, CEO of REACH. “With more than $10 million in new funding, we can significantly enhance the sustainability of our properties, improve the quality of life for our residents, and continue to play a key role in Portland’s efforts to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.”
These investments will have a lasting impact, allowing REACH to preserve affordable housing in Portland while leading the charge in climate-resilient development. By ensuring that our properties are greener and more energy-efficient, we are taking important steps toward environmental justice and sustainability.
This new funding marks an exciting chapter for REACH as we continue to build and preserve homes that support both the well-being of our residents and the health of our planet.
