Bellevue is taking significant steps to address housing affordability, a pressing concern for many residents. The City Council recently approved an updated Affordable Housing Strategy (AHS) for 2026-2032, building upon the successes of the 2017 plan. This ambitious strategy aims to produce and preserve over 5,700 affordable housing units for individuals earning between 0 and 80% of the area median income (AMI) over the next decade.
The AHS is structured around five core pillars:
Affordable Housing
Focusing on increasing the supply of affordable units through new developments and preservation efforts.
Housing Equity
Ensuring that housing opportunities are accessible to all community members, regardless of background.
Housing for Unique Needs
Addressing the specific requirements of populations such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness.
Housing Stability
Implementing measures to prevent displacement and support residents in maintaining their housing.
Housing Supply & Diversity
Encouraging a variety of housing types to meet the diverse needs of the community.
In a move to support these goals, the City Council has directed staff to prepare legislation approving up to $25.7 million from the Housing Stability Program and up to $11.3 million from the city’s Affordable Housing Fund. These funds will support four projects resulting in 271 new affordable housing units in Bellevue. Additionally, $1.3 million from the ARCH Housing Trust Fund will contribute to these new units, as well as another 234 units throughout the Eastside. This allocation represents the largest single funding round in the city’s history, accelerating affordable housing projects across Bellevue.
Furthermore, the city has adopted interim official controls requiring new projects along Main Street to reflect the area’s longstanding character. This measure aims to balance development with the preservation of Bellevue’s unique community identity.
These concerted efforts demonstrate Bellevue’s commitment to creating a community where individuals of all income levels can live, work, and thrive. By focusing on comprehensive strategies and substantial funding allocations, the city is making meaningful progress toward addressing housing affordability and ensuring a vibrant, inclusive future for all residents.