Groundbreaking for Gussie Belle Commons marks a significant step in addressing housing needs in Salem
Salem: Officials kicked off construction on Gussie Belle Commons at the old Salem General Hospital site. This new community will have 180 affordable housing units, which is a big deal for the area.
Jimmy Jones, the Executive Director of Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency, mentioned that this project is crucial, especially for low-income families right now.
He emphasized that the need for affordable housing has never been more urgent. The development is a collaboration between Green Light Development, Home First Development, and Seed of Faith Ministries.
Mark Desbrow from Green Light Development expressed excitement about providing quality homes for families in Salem. The project will feature a variety of unit sizes and community spaces.
Located at 2561 Center St. NE, the complex will include one to four-bedroom units, a community building, and outdoor areas. Plus, each unit will have amenities like washers and dryers.
Ben Pray from Home First Development shared that this is the largest project his company has tackled. He wants the homes to feel welcoming and foster a sense of community.
They plan to offer 24 units for families earning 30% of the area median income and 96 units for those at 60%. For example, a two-bedroom apartment would cost around $521 for those at 30% AMI.
The first phase will build 120 units along with a playground and community building, while the second phase will add 60 more units. They’re also looking to include an affordable daycare in the future.
The community is named after Gussie Belle Brown, a beloved local pastor. Bishop Wade Harris from Seed of Faith Ministries expressed pride in honoring his Sunday school teacher through this project.
He thanked everyone involved for their support, calling the project a “wow” moment. Pastor Evelyn McCoy-Harris shared her personal connection to the project, having experienced homelessness herself.
Mayor Chris Hoy, at his last public event as mayor, highlighted the importance of this project for the city. He noted how the site, once a hospital, is being transformed to help those in need.
He remarked that it’s a full-circle moment, turning a long-empty property into homes for people who need them. The community is set to welcome families by early 2026.
Funding for the $45 million project comes from various sources, including a significant award from Oregon Housing and Community Services.
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