A Block Party to Celebrate the Grand Opening of Albina One

Albina Vision Trust Celebrates the Grand Opening of its First Housing Development

Photo by Mark Washington of the Portland Observer

Albina One marks the first step in realizing the Albina Vision Trust’s plan to reroot families in the heart of Portland’s historically Black neighborhood. Albina One is a landmark project that combines deep affordability, cultural restoration, and sustainable design. The 94-unit development offers family-sized apartments, with 19 affordable units supported by project-based vouchers and most homes leased through Portland’s N/NE Preference Policy, giving displaced families and their descendants a path to return to Albina.

“The Albina Vision Trust is honored to serve as the catalyst in bringing the realization of Albina One to our community and to our city,” said Michael Alexander, Board Chair of AVT. “It reflects what we can accomplish when aspirations, dreams, and commitment to the greater good drive our efforts, our resolve and our resources.” Developed by Albina Vision Trust in partnership with Edlen & Co., the project was built by Colas Construction, one of Oregon’s largest Black-owned general contractors, and designed by LEVER Architecture under the leadership of Chandra Robinson. On-site resident services will be provided by POIC, a long-standing legacy organization in Albina. The project marks only the second time a Black owned construction company has put a crane in the sky in Oregon’s history, both of which have been projects constructed by Colas. “Growing up in Northeast Portland, I understand the history, resilience, and meaning this neighborhood holds for the Black community,” shared Andrew Colas, President & CEO of Colas Construction.

“As the GC of Albina One, we have been intentional in creating meaningful opportunities for Black and Brown contractors, alongside a diverse group of partners on significant scopes of work, ensuring successful outcomes rather than simply counting percentages; it is an incredible honor to build this project, and we are proud to be part of what is ahead.” Albina One provides a blueprint for development that is both equitable and sustainable. Supported by a $1.87 million grant from the Portland Clean Energy Fund, Albina One is fully electric and designed for high performance, with rooftop solar, heat pump water heating, and Earth Advantage Platinum certification pending. “Albina One is the beginning of a broader vision for Lower Albina,” said Winta Yohannes, executive director of AVT. “Together, we will continue to build a neighborhood anchored in restorative economics, cultural sustainability, inclusive housing, and community leadership.” The block party celebration will feature live music, food, art, and vendors, including local Black-owned businesses, artists, community organizations, and public institutions. This event is a commemoration of the first families moving into Albina One and a milestone in the larger vision to reimagine Portland’s central city as a place where working class families can live and play.