Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Grants in Washington

The Washington State Department of Commerce is offering the Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program (CHIP) to fund utility improvements for affordable housing projects. This grant directly aligns with a mission to support the development of affordable housing by addressing critical infrastructure needs, specifically related to water, sewer, and stormwater utilities, as well as associated system development charges. The program aims to alleviate financial burdens on affordable housing initiatives, thereby promoting the creation of more accessible and sustainable living options. The target beneficiaries of the CHIP grant are cities, counties, or public utility districts that partner with affordable housing projects. These projects must be located in a city or county that has imposed a sales and use tax for affordable housing. The ultimate impact goal is to facilitate the development of new affordable housing units, ensuring that at least 25% of the units remain affordable for a minimum of 25 years. This focus on long-term affordability and strategic partnerships underscores the program's commitment to sustainable community development. The program's priorities and focuses include supporting both onsite and offsite water, sewer, and stormwater improvements for affordable housing developments, as well as waiving system development charges for these projects. This comprehensive approach ensures that all essential utility infrastructure is covered, from the direct development site to the connecting public right-of-way. The emphasis on these specific improvements reflects a strategic understanding of the common barriers to affordable housing development. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in the number of affordable housing units developed across Washington State, with a direct link to improved utility infrastructure. With a total of $12 million available and individual grants up to $1 million, the program anticipates a significant impact on housing affordability. The requirement for a minimum of 25% affordable units for 25 years provides a clear metric for long-term impact and accountability, contributing to a broader theory of change that posits that by addressing infrastructure costs, the state can effectively stimulate and sustain affordable housing growth.