OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington State Department of Commerce announced $54.5 million in grants to develop affordable housing across the state. The funding aims to create 4,517 new homes by reducing development costs through the Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program (CHIP).
The grants will support 70 projects in 22 counties, with awards of up to $1 million each, the press release states. These projects focus on improving water and sewer systems to facilitate development.
Interim Commerce Director Sarah Clifthorne noted that linking infrastructure funding to housing development reduces upfront costs and speeds up construction timelines.
The organization reported that the latest funding includes a pilot program in Chelan, Douglas and Okanogan counties, with $5 million allocated for moderate-income housing projects.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to address housing needs and support community growth across Washington.
