In the heart of downtown Bellevue, a small revolution in affordable senior housing has unfolded for the last 25 years. Ashwood Court, a pioneering affordable housing community, is a testament to what can happen when visionary urban planning meets compassion and true community. As we celebrate its 25th anniversary, we must acknowledge the profound impact this innovative project has had on the lives of Bellevue’s seniors and the city as a whole.
As Bellevue became one of the most sought-after areas in the Pacific Northwest, many long-time residents, particularly seniors, began getting priced out of their neighborhoods. City leaders and DASH (Downtown Action to Save Housing) decided to dedicate prime real estate to affordable senior housing.
Alicia Hoppers, VP of the Affordable Housing Division at Transforming Age, shares the project’s significance in Bellevue and the senior living industry: “Ashwood Court was our first low-income housing tax credit community. It was specifically designed for seniors, reflecting Bellevue’s commitment to caring for its older adults. This project inspired the affordable housing initiatives found across Washington today.”
More Than Just Housing
Ashwood Court’s prime location offers residents easy access to downtown city amenities. Whether it be parks, libraries, healthcare facilities, or public transportation, it’s is strategically positioned to ensure seniors can maintain their independence and remain active members of their community–a crucial reflection of quality of life and well-being in a person’s later years.
The built environment is just as important to the Ashwood team. It’s more than just affordable housing, Ashwood Court is creating a close-knit community. The community spaces are designed for engagement, there are activities tailored specifically to residents’ interests, and each of the three floors has its own subculture with unique activities and setups catered to that group of older adults. Joyce Hansbearry, the Community Manager of Ashwood Court, proudly speaks about the residents: “We’re an international community – we love each other, and we watch out for each other. Our residents are long-term Bellevue citizens and good neighbors who continue to contribute to the community.”
Meeting Evolving Needs
The success of Ashwood Court has rippled far beyond its walls. For DASH, it marked the beginning of a significant expansion in affordable housing developments, taking the company from four properties in 1999 to 12 communities by 2007.
More importantly, Ashwood Court showed what’s possible when a city government works with organizations that care and fully commit to supporting all its residents. It set a precedent for future affordable housing initiatives in Bellevue and beyond.
Despite its successes, Ashwood Court faces ongoing challenges. As Bellevue’s median income rises (now around $148,000 per year), it becomes increasingly difficult for seniors on fixed incomes to keep up. Joyce notes, “Social security is going up 0.3% when rents go up 5%+. It’s not a fixed income, it’s a broken one. We’re seeing 80-year-olds who have to go back to work.”
Yet, in the face of these challenges, the spirit of Ashwood Court shines through. The staff goes above and beyond, offering resources and compassion even to those they can’t immediately house. As Joyce puts it, “We’re in a ministry here. You can’t give up!”
Looking to the Future
As Ashwood Court celebrates this milestone, it’s clear that the need for affordable housing in Bellevue is as pressing as ever. The success of this community proves that it’s possible to create housing solutions that do more than just shelter. Joyce’s vision for the future is clear: “We need more places like Ashwood for seniors and vulnerable populations. This is about providing a safe, clean environment where people can age with dignity.”