New 60-pod village to open in Aloha as part of regional governments’ work on addressing unsheltered homelessness

Posted October 26, 2026

ALOHA, OR - Washington County and Metro will celebrate the opening of Next Step Community, a permanent safe-rest pod village providing 60 pallet-style homes for up to 70 people experiencing homelessness. The Washington County Department of Housing Services purchased the property in December 2025 to relocate the county's temporary pod village into a permanent, purpose-built site, preserving shelter capacity and strengthening the region's ability to move people into long-term housing. Construction began in March 2026 and will welcome residents by year's end.

Open Door HousingWorks, chosen through a competitive process, will operate the village with 24/7 staffing trained in safety, housing navigation and employment support. The operator will continue its practice of maintaining dedicated phone and email channels for neighborhood communication and will bring experience from successfully managing other pod villages in Hillsboro, Cornelius and Aloha. Program amenities include security installations, meals, restrooms, showers, case management, a gathering tent and on-site parking.

The project reflects the direct results of the voter-approved Supportive Housing Services (SHS) measure, which funded the development's full $3.695 million cost and enabled the county to build a safer, more stable village for people on the path to housing. Annual operations will be supported primarily by Oregon Housing and Community Services, contributing to the $1.5 million yearly operating budget. The Housing Authority of Washington County owns the site, with Pallet Shelters providing the pod units and Gore Electric serving as the general contractor.

Throughout early and mid-2026, Washington County and Open Door worked closely with neighbors to shape a Good Neighbor Agreement that improves safety, communication and livability. Camping near the site remains prohibited under the county's Time, Place and Manner Policy. The county's engagement process has helped refine the final program, making the project a shared win for both residents and the surrounding community.

"Safe, supported shelter is one of the strongest tools we have to help people rebuild their stability as they recover from homelessness," Washington County Commissioner Nafisa Fai said. "Next Step Community is a direct result of voter commitment, regional partnership and community engagement - and it offers residents a meaningful place to begin moving forward."

"At a time when the cost of living is soaring and the federal government is disinvesting in social services, the Supportive Housing Services measure is helping us meet urgent needs," said Metro Councilor Gerritt Rosenthal. "We need safe places for people to sleep now more than ever. And, just as important, where they can access services and support to help them regain stability and move forward."

About Housing Authority of Washington County: The Housing Authority has been providing and developing affordable housing opportunities for over 50 years. Today, the effort continues with the County's Department of Housing Services, formed in 1992 to administer both its housing activities and programs, and those of Washington County. Its mission is to provide a continuum of affordable housing options that promote community strength.

Metro Housing Department: Metro is working to create new affordable housing and to reduce homelessness through the oversight of the voter-approved affordable housing bond and supportive housing services measure. Metro collaborates with local cities and counties to implement these local solutions to address homelessness.

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