June 2024

Since the vision of this neighborhood was brought to the organization from the community, Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County has received tremendous support for this project and has deeply considered hundreds of hours of input and feedback while approaching the design and development of the neighborhood, which will provide 150 permanently affordable workforce housing units in Port Hadlock.

Representative Steve Tharinger addressed the importance of housing to a community while County Commissioner Heidi Eisenhour spoke to the impact this particular housing development with its proximity to the library, school, and transit stop will have on Port Hadlock, her home since 1981. “This is a symbol for what we can do for this community,” she said.

Mike Mariano, founding partner of Schemata Workshop, spoke to the “whole systems thinking approach” driving the design of the neighborhood. This will be a sustainable, affordable, and beautiful community built on the Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County’s priority of family-friendly neighborhoods built with consideration for green spaces and the natural landscape.

The sustainable design for this project includes stormwater pollution prevention and protections for nearby Chimacum Creek as well as the four acres of forest on the property. These considerations, along with the preservation of the walking path along the southern perimeter of the property, fall in line with the pulse of the community and our partners’ vision for this development.

“We can’t do it alone,” Jamie reminded the crowd as she emphasized the crucial community and philanthropic partnerships that drive the development of this project. State and local government support is also critical, with both Jefferson County and the state congressional contingency helping to push this project forward.

The congressional offices of Senator Maria Cantwell and Representative Derek Kilmer sent representatives to speak at the May 30th event, reiterating their support for this project. We are grateful to our federal delegation for their advocacy for a direct appropriation to support the Mason Street Neighborhood.

Learn more about the Mason Street project by visiting our Mason Street page.

Volunteers Helping on Mason Street

In the heart of East Jefferson County, Habitat for Humanity’s Mason Street project is transforming not just the landscape, but the community spirit as well. This endeavor has sparked an incredible wave of local support and volunteerism that highlights the best of what neighbors can do when they come together for a common cause.

The Mason Street property, once neglected and overgrown, was burdened with literally tons of garbage. However, thanks to the dedication of neighborhood volunteers, a massive clean-up effort has restored the land to a state of promise and potential. This initial clean-up was a monumental task, with community members rolling up their sleeves alongside Habitat staff and board members to haul away debris and trash.

But the involvement of the community didn’t end there. Neighbors now play an ongoing role in maintaining the property. They keep a vigilant eye on the site, providing regular email updates to Habitat staff about any unusual activity or maintenance needs. This neighborhood effort ensures that the property remains secure and well-maintained, fostering a sense of collective ownership and responsibility.

Additionally, Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County has dedicated volunteer Tim Tibbals performing what we call “eyes on land” checks. Tim has the unique opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes of East Jefferson County while keeping a watchful eye on all properties owned by Habitat, including the Mason Street site. Their regular visits and reports help ensure that the properties are in good condition and ready for development.

The Mason Street project is also supported by a diverse group of volunteer consultants who contribute their expertise in various areas. From land use planning to solar energy solutions, these volunteers bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table. For example, Hans Frederickson of Frederickson Electric and members of his team have been working on the electrical plans for Mason Street, including contributions from Krista Meyers in designing solar carports. Their efforts are crucial in guiding the sustainable development of the property, ensuring that it not only provides homes but does so in an environmentally conscious manner.

Neighborhood organization and development are also key components of the project. Volunteers work tirelessly to engage the community, fostering a spirit of collaboration and inclusivity. These efforts help to build a strong, supportive community that will welcome new homeowners with open arms. Volunteers with extensive experience in community building are on board, including Josie Morales, who brings years of experience with community organizing in the Central Valley area of California.

The Mason Street project is more than just a housing initiative; it is a testament to the power of community. The collective efforts of neighbors, volunteers, donors, and Habitat for Humanity staff are turning a once-neglected property into a beacon of hope and opportunity. As the project progresses, it serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision of creating a better, more inclusive community.