Homelessness
Wide-ranging solutions are needed to address the root causes of homelessness. Architects will not be able to address all of the issues associated with homelessness, but we do have a strong desire to learn, understand and provide assistance.
Our Priorities for Homelessness
- Invite discussion about complex issues related to design and development, housing affordability, displacement and homelessness.
- Advocate for a wide range of emergency, long-term and permanent housing options, including existing and new structures.
- Promote increased funding for affordable housing through both public and market mechanisms.
- Connect members with opportunities to directly address Seattle’s homelessness crisis
Projects
AIA’s Public Policy Board held an Urban Design Forum on homelessness in March 2017 and a forum on Engaging with Homelessness in October 2017. In late 2017 we convened a Homelessness Task Force to determine AIA policy and a path forward related to this issue.
AIA sent a letter to city councilmembers in January 2021 in support of a proposal to exempt permanent supportive housing projects from Design Review.
AIA Publications
Policy Statement: Homelessness
Endorsement: Seattle Council Bill – Transitional Homeless Encampments
Action
- Join AIA Seattle’s Committee on Homelessness.
External Resources
Seattle/King County annual report on homelessness, Count Us In, June 2018
City of Seattle Homelessness Response
Homelessness Investment Policy: The Path Forward for the City of Seattle (Poppe Report)
Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness
All Home King County
Understanding Homelessness by Sasaki
More Information
For additional information on AIA Seattle public policy priorities and activities, or to share your views as an AIA Seattle member, contact Executive Director, Melissa K. Neher.
