Washington Gardens

Washington Ave, Pembroke St, Sherwood Street, Presumpscot St

For over 50 years, Washington Gardens has proudly provided quality, comfortable and affordable rental homes for seniors and persons with a disability. Conveniently located in Portland’s East Deering neighborhood just off-peninsula, the property enjoys a big community room, on-site METRO bus stop, laundry room, tenant gardens, and beautiful gazebo patio area. Its two-story buildings contain a mix of studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments. All 100 homes at Washington Gardens benefit from a Section 8 Project Based Voucher.

In January 2023, Portland Housing Development Corporation (PHDC) completed a 20-month renovation of Washington Gardens. The $15 million renovation upgraded all building exteriors, like siding, insulation, windows and exterior doors; replaced kitchen cabinets and counters; replaced flooring; added new bathroom vanities, sinks and accessories; installed new energy- and water-efficient lighting fixtures and appliances; new paint; improved sitework and accessibility ramps; and beautified the landscaping. To improve aging-in-place, the renovation reconfigured 17 apartments to be accessible for persons with a physical disability and 2 with audio/visual devices for persons with a hearing- or visual-impairment. 145kW of solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays were installed on multiple rooftops to lower the property’s carbon footprint and electrical costs. 

In addition to on-site Property Management staff, Washington Gardens residents also benefit from an on-site Resident Services Coordinator (RSC). This new position connects tenants with local services, helping our residents maintain independence, stable occupancy and improve their quality of life. The RSC evaluates needs and links residents with the appropriate organizations and services. The RSC also helps build community and create a positive social environment through activities, programming and education so Washington Gardens residents feel welcomed, connected, supported and empowered. 

Portland Housing would like to recognize the partners involved in this project, including CWS Architecture + Interior Design, TPD Construction, and Carroll Associates Landscape Architects.

Financing for Washington Gardens renovation included a combination of local, state and federal sources and private investment, including:

• MaineHousing – 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits 
• City of Portland – HOME and Tax Increment Financing
• Gorham Savings Bank – Permanent and Construction Financing
• RBC Community Investments – LIHTC Syndicator
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Section 18 Disposition
• Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston