Multnomah County leased the 26-unit Barbur Boulevard Lodge in southwest Portland to provide housing for people in transition due to physical health or mental illness.

Constructed in 1945, the automobile-oriented motel provided an ideal configuration for transitional housing – single-occupancy rooms with individual front doors, a community room and open space. The site is located along a major street with frequent transit service and nearby resources and amenities for residents.

CHA provided initial building assessment, then full design and construction documentation for the project. CHA proposed converting the central parking lot into a plaza for residents, providing much-needed outdoor space. Building improvements included refurbishing all units with new entry doors and porches, new plumbing fixtures, finishes and furniture, and adding a kitchenette. Accessibility upgrades for three units are included. Rehabilitation of Common Spaces with new finishes and furniture was also included, as was remodeling of the former managers quarters to accommodate on-site staff.

Unfortunately, significant unforeseen structural and infrastructure issues were identified during the pre-construction process, and the project was not constructed.