Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development joined its partners to celebrate the grand opening of Colonia Jardines, a new apartment complex in Silverton that received significant USDA funding and will provide affordable rental housing for farm laborers and their families.
“Farmworkers play a critical role in the rural economy and America’s agriculture sector, but it can be difficult for these hardworking families to find affordable housing in the communities in which they live and work,” said USDA Rural Development Acting State Director Jill Rees. “Colonia Jardines will provide modern, sustainable apartment homes with low utility costs, improving the lives of farmworkers in the Silverton area.”
This apartment complex was built by the nonprofit Farmworker Housing Development Corporation with assistance from a USDA Rural Development loan of $1 million and a grant of $2 million provided through the Farm Labor Housing Program. It can accommodate 20 families, and the complex will foster a community environment with a meeting space and outdoor playground.
Colonia Jardines has been certified as a LEED Platinum building, the highest sustainability rating available. Constructed using eco-friendly strategies, the apartment complex’s sustainable features include the use of locally-sourced materials and the installation of drought-tolerant landscaping and a high efficiency irrigation system. At least half of all construction waste materials were recycled. The non-toxic and low volatile organic compound materials used in construction, along with the hard flooring in the units, will improve air quality and reduce allergens. Additionally, the two- and three-bedroom apartments feature Energy Star-rated appliances, high efficiency water fixtures, and energy-efficient water heating and HVAC systems. These sustainable features will reduce energy use, helping to protect the environment and save the residents money on their utility bills.
Additional funding for this project includes $1.26 million in loans and $1.64 million in Agricultural Workforce Housing Tax Credits from Oregon Housing and Community Services. An interim loan of $1.6 million was provided by Community And Shelter Assistance Corporation (CASA) of Oregon until the tax credits took effect upon completion of construction. In addition, Rural Development is providing rental assistance to 19 families at this apartment complex, ensuring their rent payments do not exceed 30 percent of their income.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; homeownership; community services, such as education, public safety, and healthcare; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/or.