The Overlook: Affordable Housing in Downtown Troutdale
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Date
2021
Authors
Irsfeld, Brendan
Arroyo, John
Brown, Anne
Sandoval, Gerard
Knudson, Kaarin
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Graduate students in the University of Oregon’s Community and Regional Planning program collaborated inthree research groups to propose an affordable housing development on a parcel of land close to downtown Troutdale. The parcel is designated as Opportunity Site 7 (referred to as the Overlook Tract) in the City’s recent Town Center Plan. Each proposal examined affordable housing from a specific topical lens: climate justice, racial justice, and housing instability. Due to the restrictions in place resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the three teams worked mainly in a virtual environment under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
Students presented three forward- thinking proposals for developing affordable housing on the site. The groups incorporated many similar elements while also distinguishing each proposal by introducing unique recommendations. Using a mixed-use design to support future residents emerged as a predominant theme of each proposal. Commercial space can serve as a place that provides community services and introduces vibrancy to the area when incorporated with housing space. Another similarity among each proposal was to improve Troutdale’s downtown transportation network to better accommodate pedestrians and biking.
To conceptualize their proposals, students employed a variety of research methods, including quantitative analysis, content analysis, a literature review, case studies, and participating in a virtual design charette led by faculty at the University of Oregon. This research period allowed each team to form a comprehensive understanding of Troutdale as a place and community.
Teams envisioned affordable housing with an understanding of the socioeconomic and demographic shifts within the context of local housing markets, with particular emphasis on living spaces for low-income individuals. Efforts were concentrated on the potential of the parcel to provide affordable housing, in addition to residual benefits for the future growth of the downtown area, a vital concern to Troutdale’s city officials. Of the key recommendations from each group, notable features also include:
• Utilizing open space within the development for community- supportive activities, such as maintaining a community garden. • Providing first-floor commercial space to introduce jobs and amenities to the area close to downtown Troutdale.
• Creating connections between existing built infrastructure and the site, in addition to downtown neighborhoods in Troutdale.
• Incorporating placemaking elements, such as public art and community centers, to reflect the cultural diversity of Troutdale’s citizenry.
This report briefly presents the central themes, notable highlights, and key recommendations contained within each group’s proposal for an affordable housing development on the Overlook Tract.
Description
43 pages