The Mystery Solved: Beaverton's DoubleTree Transforms into a Beacon of Hope

Many of us driving past the old DoubleTree hotel off US-26 in Beaverton have probably scratched our heads, haven't we? For what feels like ages, that prominent building has been shrouded in a mysterious white plastic, a real local landmark turned into a puzzle. "What on earth is going on in there?" has been the unspoken question echoing in countless cars and conversations. Well, dear neighbors, the mystery is finally unraveling, and the answer is not only clear but also incredibly impactful.

It turns out this isn't just another stalled development or a forgotten relic. Quite the opposite, actually! The former DoubleTree, which has stood dormant since late 2021 or early 2022, is undergoing a profound metamorphosis. Washington County stepped in, acquiring the property back in 2022, and has since been diligently working to transform it into something truly vital: "The Uplands at Rock Creek." This isn't just any housing; it's going to be a beacon of hope, providing permanent supportive housing specifically for families in Washington County who are currently experiencing the harrowing realities of homelessness.

Now, about that plastic wrap – it wasn't just for show, you know. It signaled the intensive and necessary work of asbestos abatement and interior demolition. Picture this: stripping the building back to its bones, preparing it for a complete rebirth. Once complete, this expansive facility will boast 200 individual units, designed to comfortably house anywhere from 400 to 600 people. And here’s a particularly poignant detail: an estimated 200 of those residents will be children. Just imagine the difference this will make for those young lives.

This isn't just about putting a roof over someone's head; it's about building a foundation for a brighter future. Washington County isn't doing this alone. They've partnered with Transition Projects, a highly respected non-profit organization renowned for its expertise in supporting individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. Transition Projects will be right there, on-site, offering a holistic suite of services. Think case management, connections to vital healthcare, job assistance programs, educational opportunities, and even much-needed childcare. The goal is to provide a stable, supportive environment where families can truly thrive, not just survive.

Of course, a project of this scale comes with a significant price tag, estimated to be around $65 million. But the funding picture shows a remarkable commitment from various levels. It's a blend of state and federal support, which is truly heartening. We're talking about Project Turnkey funds, a brilliant state initiative born out of COVID-19 relief efforts, overseen by Oregon Housing and Community Services. Then there's support from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds, alongside crucial county bonds. It’s a testament to the collective understanding that addressing homelessness requires serious, sustained investment.

So, when can we expect this transformation to be complete? The current phase of demolition and abatement is actively underway. We anticipate construction work to truly kick off in the fall of 2024. And if all goes according to plan – fingers crossed, right? – residents could begin moving in phases, hopefully starting in late 2025 or early 2026. It's a journey, for sure, but one with an incredibly powerful destination.

Truth be told, the sight of a hotel, especially one as large as the DoubleTree, sitting vacant and wrapped in plastic has been a bit disheartening for the community. But understanding its true destiny now, as "The Uplands at Rock Creek," changes everything. It's more than just a building; it's a profound commitment to our most vulnerable neighbors. It's about providing stability, dignity, and a real chance at a fresh start. This project stands as a powerful example of how we, as a community, can repurpose challenges into opportunities, creating lasting, positive change right here in Beaverton and across Washington County. It's genuinely something to look forward to, don't you think?