Yesler Terrace Redevelopment: Transforming Seattle's Oldest Public Housing
For decades, Yesler Terrace stood as the oldest public housing project in Seattle. After 60 years of service, the neighborhood became the center of a massive urban transformation aimed at evolving the area into a vibrant, mixed-income community. This ambitious project represents the largest redevelopment effort in the city's history, blending residential living with commercial growth and improved transit connectivity.
The Path to Transformation
Conversations regarding the future of Yesler Terrace began in 2004. These discussions were part of a broader city-wide trend to transition traditional public housing into mixed-income neighborhoods, similar to initiatives seen at NewHolly, High Point, and Rainier Vista. Formal planning officially commenced in 2006 with the assembly of a professional planning team and the recruitment of a citizen review panel to guide the process.
Before construction began, the project faced significant community scrutiny. Existing residents organized to oppose any redevelopment plans that might reduce the number of housing units available to those with the lowest incomes, ensuring that the project remained committed to affordability.
Project Scope and Investment
Launched in 2013, the redevelopment is a $1.7 billion investment designed to modernize the neighborhood's infrastructure and diversify its population. The master plan replaces aging structures with a comprehensive mix of residential, commercial, and community spaces.
The development includes 5,000 mixed-income residential units, 900,000 square feet of office space, and 153,000 square feet dedicated to retail and community use. To achieve this, the Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) partnered with private developers, including Vulcan Real Estate, to facilitate the construction of both market-rate and subsidized housing.
Commitment to Affordability
A core component of the project is its adherence to Area Median Income (AMI)—a metric used to determine eligibility for affordable housing based on the median household income of the surrounding region. The project allocates units across several income tiers:
- 561 units for individuals or families earning 30% of the AMI or less.
- 290 units for those earning 60% of the AMI.
- 850 units for those earning 80% of the AMI.
Timeline and Connectivity
The buildout of Yesler Terrace is a long-term endeavor, with the full completion anticipated to take up to 15 years. The first milestones were reached in the mid-2010s, with the opening of Kebero Court in May 2015, followed by Raven Terrace in February 2016.
To integrate the neighborhood with the rest of the city, the First Hill Streetcar began operations in 2016. This transit link connects Yesler Terrace to Capitol Hill via Broadway and to the International District via Jackson Street, significantly increasing accessibility for residents and workers.
Key Facts
- Total Investment: $1.7 billion.
- Residential Capacity: 5,000 mixed-income units.
- Commercial Space: 900,000 sq ft of office and 153,000 sq ft of retail/community space.
- Project Duration: Estimated 15-year full buildout.
- Key Partners: Seattle Housing Authority and Vulcan Real Estate.
- Transit Link: First Hill Streetcar (operational since 2016).
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Cost | $1.7 Billion |
| Total Residential Units | 5,000 |
| Office Space | 900,000 sq ft |
| Retail/Community Space | 153,000 sq ft |
| First Building Opened | Kebero Court (May 2015) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the redevelopment of Yesler Terrace begin?
While talks began in 2004 and formal planning started in 2006, the actual redevelopment project began in 2013.
How many affordable housing units are included in the plan?
The plan includes at least 561 units for those at or below 30% AMI, 290 units for those at 60% AMI, and 850 units for those at 80% AMI.
Who are the primary developers involved in the project?
The Seattle Housing Authority partnered with private developers, including Vulcan Real Estate, to build the community's market-rate and 80% AMI housing.
How is Yesler Terrace connected to other Seattle neighborhoods?
The First Hill Streetcar, which started in 2016, connects the neighborhood to Capitol Hill via Broadway and the International District via Jackson Street.
How long is the total buildout expected to take?
The project is anticipated to take up to 15 years for full completion.