Clackamas Heights redevelopment project aims to double housing units in Oregon City

Oregon City is set to undergo a significant transformation with the redevelopment of the Clackamas Heights affordable housing project, which aims to replace the aging public housing community with modern, energy-efficient homes. The City Commission meeting on June 4, 2025, highlighted the project's progress and its anticipated benefits for the community.

The Clackamas Heights public housing community, built in the early 1940s, has faced challenges in maintaining basic living standards, particularly highlighted during the severe ice storms of 2021. In response, the Housing Authority of Clackamas County has initiated plans to redevelop the site, which will increase the number of housing units from 99 to 200. The project is designed to provide safe, welcoming, and energy-efficient homes for families in need.

Devon Ellen, the Housing Development Director, shared that the design process has been shaped by extensive community engagement, including listening sessions and workshops with residents and local organizations. This collaborative approach has ensured that the redevelopment reflects the needs and desires of the community, maintaining the site's natural beauty and enhancing connectivity with the surrounding neighborhood.

Construction is slated to begin in November 2025, with the first units expected to be available by mid-2027. To support current residents during the transition, approximately 30% have already been relocated, with assistance provided through Section 8 rental vouchers and relocation services. The Housing Authority is committed to giving all displaced residents the first opportunity to return to the new development once completed.

The design incorporates modern architectural elements while respecting the traditional styles of the surrounding area. Plans include pedestrian-friendly pathways, community gardens, and recreational spaces, fostering a sense of community among residents and their neighbors.

In addition to housing, the project aims to achieve sustainability goals, with provisions for solar energy integration and recycling of construction materials. This forward-thinking approach not only addresses immediate housing needs but also promotes environmental responsibility.

As Oregon City moves forward with the Clackamas Heights redevelopment, the project stands as a testament to the city's commitment to improving living conditions and enhancing community ties, paving the way for a brighter future for its residents.