Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of new community is Seattle Housing Authority planning to build at Yesler Terrace?
The new community at Yesler Terrace will be a diverse and sustainable urban neighborhood which will include low-income rentals, townhouses, condominiums and retail/office spaces. The core values on which the redevelopment will be based are outlined in the Yesler Terrace Definitions and Guiding Principles adopted by the Board of Commissioners in December 2007.
Will the current residents of Yesler Terrace lose their housing?
No. Everyone who is living at Yesler Terrace will have subsidized housing as long as they continue to qualify. Housing will be available either at Yesler Terrace or elsewhere in Seattle, depending on the household's choice. It may be possible to build new housing over time so that residents can move gradually from old housing at Yesler to the new housing without having to relocate temporarily.
Will the newly built Yesler Community Center remain in place?
Yes. Whatever new development occurs in the community will be built around this new facility.
Will residents be able to purchase homes in the new development?
Planning for the new community will include home-buyer assistance for residents and other first-time home buyers. Until plans are further along, it is hard to say more about this.
What is the timeline for redevelopment?
With the adoption of the definitions and guiding principles during Phase I, the second phase of planning began in spring of 2008. During Phase II, Seattle Housing Authority will hire an urban planning/architectural consultant to assist with developing more specific plans. Construction is unlikely to begin before 2011 at the earliest.
Should residents start looking for a new place to live?
No. There is no need for residents to consider moving at this time due to the redevelopment. Residents living at Yesler Terrace when development actually starts will be eligible for relocation benefits. If a resident has moved away by this time, relocation benefits would not be available.
How can I get involved in the process?
Check back on this website frequently, and watch for notices in the Seattle Housing Authority resident newspaper, The Voice. Sign up for our email newsletter, Building Community, to stay up to date on Yesler Terrace news.
Call Leslie Stewart at 206-615-3556 to let her know that you want to be informed of upcoming meetings.
How can I find out more about the history of of Yesler Terrace?
Planning consultant CollinsWoerman has prepared a background report on Yesler Terrace. The report contains historical information as well as insights and potential strategies for redevelopment.
How can I find out more about the terminology used at the Yesler Terrace redevelopment meetings?
A glossary of urban planning and design terms is available in multiple languages.
