The Strong Building

Located at the prominent intersection of N. Alberta Street and N. Williams Avenue and purchased by PHB from longtime neighborhood residents the Strong family, the Luther Strong, Jr. & Dr. Jackie Strong Empowerment Village, aka the Strong Building, embodies a visual and historical significance for long-time residents of North and Northeast Portland. Of the 75 total units, 11 will be affordable to households earning 30% AMI or below and 54 units will be family-sized, with 2 or more bedrooms. 

Developed by Community Development Partners (CDP) and Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI), the project will include a large outdoor courtyard, private playground area, laundry, and an indoor community room, all to foster community among the residents. These amenities are intended to provide indoor and outdoor spaces outside of one’s apartment where residents can gather for community events, classes, informal get-togethers, and recreation at the onsite play structures. 

The project will also offset utility costs incurred by tenants with high-efficiency electric heating and air conditioning systems and appliances, above-code insulation and a solar array through a Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) grant. SEI will provide resident services and outreach with an emphasis on supporting African American families earning 30% AMI or below. Utilizing the N/NE Preference Policy list, this development will prioritize housing those whose families have been displaced by urban renewal’s legacy in North and Northeast Portland.

To align the project with the N/NE Oversight Committee’s efforts, CDP and SEI have acquired the neighboring Abbey Lot for the development of 8 homeownership units, which will be regulated at 60-100% AMI. The Metro Bond and Interstate Corridor Tax Increment Financing will contribute to financing the capital costs.

For more information:

Developer Website

Building Profile