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Booker House nears full occupancy; Red Lion shelter renovations continue, city told
Summary
City staff reported Booker House permanent supportive housing had 57 occupants (44 with Federal Way ties) and expected full occupancy in early July; county-owned Red Lion emergency shelter remains under renovation with a likely October opening, city staff said.
City staff told the Federal Way City Council on June 16 that two shelter projects are moving toward occupancy but on differing schedules.
Community Development Director Keith Nan said Booker House (formerly an Extended Stay property near Uptown Square) currently houses 57 residents and the Urban League expects full occupancy by early July; the Urban League reported 44 of the occupants have "ties to Federal Way." Nan clarified Booker House is a permanent supportive housing project targeted at households earning up to 30% of area median income and staffed with case-management services.
The Red Lion, a county-owned emergency shelter, remains under interior renovation; the county's stated target was August occupancy but city building inspectors now anticipate October as a more realistic date, Nan said. Catholic Community Services will operate the Red Lion when it opens.
Why it matters: Expanding shelter and permanent supportive housing is a central local response to homelessness. Council members pressed staff on how "ties to Federal Way" were determined, day-center consolidation, contractor progress and whether shelters can be ready before cold weather.
Council follow-up: Council members asked for documentation on how "ties to Federal Way" were determined and for regular updates on Red Lion progress, including whether pets will be allowed. Staff said the Urban League and county will provide follow-up details.
What's next: The city will track occupancy at Booker House and continue coordination with the county and Catholic Community Services on Red Lion timelines and inspections.
