Community Services
Rainier Vista is still in the midst of redevelopment, with infrastructure and streets being rebuilt alongside new housing for people of all income levels.
Though construction continues, residents and members of the surrounding community can already take advantage of a number of services and amenities, including those provided by Neighborhood House, Providence Health & Services, and the Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club. Public art installations can be enjoyed by all.
Neighborhood House
Neighborhood House's Rainier Vista Center offers a range of services for low-income residents, helping them to gain needed skills and move toward self-sufficiency.
It is the first building that the agency has owned in its almost 100-year history, and features nearly 10,000 square feet of space for classrooms, a Head Start program, a community computer lab, social services, job services, and case management.
In addition to providing space for community gatherings, Rainier Vista Center has also allowed Neighborhood House to expand its programs for low-income children, adults, families and seniors, all under one roof.
Housing & services for special needs
Providence Health & Services manages affordable units and daycare services for seniors at Rainier Vista's Gamelin House and Elder Place buildings.
In partnership with AIDS Housing of Washington, Housing Resources Group manages the Genesee Housing complex, which includes apartments for people with low incomes and disabilities.
Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club
The Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club will move into its new 40,000 square foot building in the fall of 2008.
At three times the size of the Club's old facility, the new space will provide separate areas for its Boys & Girls Club and Teen Center programs. Each program will have its own gym, computer lab, classrooms, game rooms, and multi-purpose areas. Other new features include a music studio, industrial kitchen, art studio, and health room.
Public art
Rainier Vista is a stimulating neighborhood with bright colors, images and original artwork at every turn. Whirligigs line the Columbia Way Boulevard and connect the neighborhood artistically with nearby Columbia City. Residents can relax and visit on the custom-designed benches and other park furniture placed throughout the neighborhood.
Some of the benches and cement features in Rainier Vista have embedded mosaics in them and were designed by The Children's Museum. Murals created by students in the ArtWorks program have also been featured throughout the neighborhood.
