Place Development - Quarterly Recap 2026
- WCCDA
- 9 hours ago
- 3 min read
Building Spaces for Community and Belonging
As we step into the second quarter of 2026, our Place Development team is taking a moment to reflect on a powerful start to the year. From major milestones to behind-the-scenes improvements, this quarter has been about turning long-term vision into tangible spaces that serve the White Center community.
A Milestone Moment: The White Center HUB Ribbon Cutting
The highlight of the quarter was undoubtedly the grand opening of the White Center HUB, a project years in the making and a true reflection of community-driven development.
In January, we joined partners, residents, and local leaders to celebrate the ribbon cutting of this transformative space. The HUB, short for Hope, Unity, and Belonging, was designed to be more than just a building. It is a cultural and civic anchor rooted in community voice and collaboration.
The campus brings together affordable housing, essential services, and gathering spaces all in one place. Inside the HUB, you’ll find classrooms for youth programs, a maker space, a recording studio, health services including dental care, and space for small businesses including a café and future commissary kitchen.
This project represents nearly a decade of organizing, partnership-building, and persistence. It stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when development is led by and for the community.
Honoring the Community: Donor Wall Installation
This quarter, we were proud to install the HUB’s donor wall demonstrating an important feature that recognizes the many individuals, organizations, and partners who helped bring this vision to life.
The donor wall is a tribute to the collective investment and shared belief in the future of White Center. It reflects the broad network of
support that made the HUB possible and serves as a lasting acknowledgment of those contributions.
Keeping White Center Rooted: Taproot White Center
Our team made strides in connecting with community members and partners to gather input on key topics such as safety, homeownership, and land trust. As part of this work, we hosted Homestead Community Land Trust to present on affordable homeownership opportunities to local renters.
These conversations are critical to ensuring that future development reflects community priorities and supports long-term stability for White Center residents.
Laying the Groundwork for Future Activation
We took exciting steps toward activating our café space by acquiring key machinery. This investment moves us closer to creating a vibrant, community-centered gathering place within the HUB.
The café is envisioned as a “third space”—somewhere people can connect outside of home and work—and a platform for local entrepreneurs to grow. With the right equipment now in place, we’re one step closer to bringing that vision to life.
Expanding Community Gathering Spaces: Savusa Hall
This quarter also marked the completion of the warming kitchen in Savusa Hall, an important upgrade that enhances the HUB’s capacity to host events and community programming.
With this addition, Savusa Hall is better equipped to support a wide range of gatherings—from cultural celebrations and workshops to large meetings and shared meals. The warming kitchen increases flexibility for event partners and helps ensure the space can meet the diverse needs of the White Center community.
Looking Ahead
The first quarter of 2026 was about opening doors—literally and figuratively. From launching a landmark community space to honoring the people who made it possible, our Place Development team continues to focus on creating spaces where people feel a sense of belonging. As we move forward, we’re excited to keep building, activating, and evolving these spaces alongside the community.
