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"Dolores" Affordable Housing Development Breaks Ground

Post Date:12/03/2024

Dolores Ground Breaking: 10 people holding shovels and digging into dirt Hillsboro's next affordable housing community broke ground on Friday, November 22, as leaders from Hacienda CDC joined elected officials from the City of Hillsboro, Metro, and other project partners to celebrate.

"Hacienda CDC is thrilled to announce a transformative partnership with the City of Hillsboro, Washington County, METRO, and the State of Oregon to bring 67 new affordable homes to Hillsboro," said Dr. Ernesto Fonseca, Hacienda CEO. "This project — it’s a commitment to creating opportunity and belonging for our growing Latino community and other low-income families in Hillsboro. By next year, nearly 300 individuals will have a place to call home."

Named ‘Dolores’ for Latina agricultural activist Dolores Huerta, the apartment community will offer 67 new affordable homes in the Tanasbourne neighborhood. Located on a site that was once a hazelnut orchard, the building’s design is inspired by Mexican architects such as Legorreta and Barragán.

Dolores will provide one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom homes for households earning less than 30% to 60% of the area median income. A total of 12 permanent supportive housing units will come with supportive services from New Narrative, as well as housing vouchers through Washington County. Hacienda CDC will own and manage the property and offer bilingual resident services.

“Affordable housing isn't just about providing a roof over someone's head,” said Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway. “It's about offering stability, opportunity, and a sense of belonging. It’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their income, has access to safe, quality housing that they can call home.”

Designed with sustainability in mind, the project includes solar panels, a community garden, and greenspaces. Other amenities include a playground, a bike room, and a courtyard with covered seating.

The project was made possible through a mix of public funds, including $10.5 million from the voter-approved Metro affordable housing bond in partnership with the City of Hillsboro. It was also the first site acquired through Metro’s Site Acquisition Program, which seeks sites that will advance racial equity. It was selected to receive $4.5 million in gap funding through this program due to the area’s limited access to affordable housing and because people who live in the area are experiencing displacement pressures.

“Thanks to voters, the Metro affordable housing bond is helping us build thousands of new homes across our great region,” said Metro Councilor Juan Carlos González. “Projects like the Dolores show how in this process, we are also creating beautiful environments that will foster a sense of pride, community and stability among residents for years to come.”