On July 28, 2025, Governor Tina Kotek visited Century Commons, a new 18-unit affordable housing development in Hillsboro built by Habitat for Humanity-Portland Region, to sign into law five bills aimed at boosting Oregon’s supply of “middle housing.” These new laws are designed to accelerate the construction of housing types such as duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, and modular homes, offering more affordable options for Oregon families.

This new legislation is part of a bigger strategy to address Oregon’s housing crisis by making it easier and faster for developers and nonprofit organizations to build reasonably priced homes.

Westlake is proud to support Oregon’s Middle Housing Initiative, working in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and other affordable housing developers to create accessible, community-centered housing solutions.

Westlake’s role in these projects often begins with a complex land use component. Ken Sandblast, Director of Planning and one of Westlake’s principal owners, is a long-time champion of affordable housing options. He has guided scores of affordable home projects in his career, including fifteen Habitat developments since he joined Westlake in 2015. 

Ken describes himself as a “Professional Germinator”, someone who works in partnership with public planning departments, nonprofit leaders, and private partners to turn community-driven ideas into tangible, thriving neighborhoods.

Century Commons, where Westlake has provided comprehensive land use, civil engineering, surveying, and construction administration since 2018, is an example of what’s possible when we come together with a shared purpose.