Peninsula Behavioral Health breaks ground on $12.5M affordable housing project in Port Angeles

In the heart of Clallam County, a pivotal Board of Health meeting unfolded on January 21, 2025, where community health initiatives and housing developments took center stage. As the discussions flowed, the commitment to addressing local health needs and the challenges of affordable housing became increasingly evident.

One of the key highlights was the innovative approach to healthcare delivery. A representative shared how the team has been creatively meeting community needs, including sending nurse practitioners to patients and collaborating with a community paramedic program for on-site health checks. This proactive strategy underscores the importance of accessibility in healthcare, especially for vulnerable populations.

The conversation then shifted to a significant housing project that has been in the works for over a year. The project aims to provide much-needed affordable housing, with construction set to begin this month. The selected contractor, New Leaf Construction, was praised for their competitive bid and commitment to using local labor. The anticipated completion date is January 2026, with a budget of approximately $12.5 million, fully funded through a combination of public and private sources, including a substantial loan from the state.

However, the project is not without its challenges. Rising construction costs and new building codes have raised concerns about potential budget overages. The team is actively exploring ways to mitigate these costs, including purchasing materials in advance to avoid shortages caused by national rebuilding efforts in other regions.

Community feedback has been mixed, with some residents expressing concerns about the nature of the housing being developed. The project aims to provide quality living spaces, complete with essential amenities like internet access and energy-efficient features, which are crucial for the well-being of future residents. The developers emphasized that the goal is to create a safe and stable environment for all community members, regardless of their background.

As the meeting concluded, the overarching theme was clear: Clallam County is at a crossroads, balancing the urgent need for healthcare accessibility and affordable housing against the backdrop of rising costs and community perceptions. The commitment to building a sustainable future for all residents remains strong, with hopes that these initiatives will foster a healthier, more inclusive community for years to come.