"Microsoft and Former Gov. Gregoire Call for Community Action on Housing Crisis"

During the Bellevue Downtown Association's May breakfast, Microsoft and former Governor Christine Gregoire highlighted the urgent housing crisis on the Eastside, announcing a $500 million commitment to address it. The discussion revealed that housing supply is significantly lagging behind job growth, particularly affecting middle-income earners. Gregoire cited that essential professions, such as nursing and teaching, are increasingly priced out of the Eastside due to soaring living costs. With $225 million dedicated to middle-income housing, Microsoft's initiative aims to provide much-needed support for workers who contribute to the community's well-being. The conversation also touched on the need for collaborative community efforts to tackle the housing crisis, as many cities worldwide face similar struggles.

Gregoire emphasized the importance of innovative solutions, saying, "no finger pointing" and urging community members to engage in discussions about living costs. The challenges presented are not just local but reflect a broader global trend where housing issues correlate with rising homelessness rates. Ultimately, the event served as a call to action for stakeholders to embrace bold ideas and take risks to create a more economically diverse housing market.