Rubio's five-year strategy seeks to meet Portland's need for affordable housing

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Portland leaders forecast the city could need up to 120,560 new housing units by 2045. Commissioner Carmen Rubio, who is running to replace current Mayor Ted Wheeler, recently uncovered her five-year action plan designed to help the city reach this goal, among others.

The 35 actions outlined in the plan fall under eight initiatives, as outlined by the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability.

1. Promote affordable housing
2. Increase middle-income housing and homeownership
3. Increase housing across all major redevelopment efforts
4. Reduce barriers to development and improve processes
5. Stabilize current and future households
6. Promote age- and disability-friendly housing
7. Promote climate-friendly and healthy homes
8. Advocate at the state and federal level

According to a press release from Rubio’s office, she and BPS worked alongside other city officials and external entities to develop this plan over the past year.

The commissioner’s announcement indicates the plan was informed by the 2023 State of Housing Report, which revealed that multiple demographics — including Black, Latino and Indigenous residents — couldn’t afford an average-priced home in Portland even when they earn an average income.

“Everyone deserves to live in a secure and healthy home, but not all Portlanders can access safe and affordable housing,” Rubio said in a statement. “Economic, social, and physical barriers often limit residents from finding homes that meet their needs. And the rising cost of living has made it even harder for people, straining the budgets of many Portlanders.”

Regardless of costs, the proposed strategy also outlined the need for additional development— with Portland expecting a 35% increase in the demand for households and a 41% increase in the demand for new units within the next 21 years.

BPS determined the city has an adequate supply of land to support new development, but city leaders must work to ensure that any new housing is actually affordable for potential renters and homeowners.

A full look at the proposed strategy is available online. Portland City Council will hear the public’s feedback on Wednesday, Aug. 28.

Officials have until December to officially adopt a plan.