Kitsap County News

KINGSTON, Wash. – Housing Kitsap is celebrating the acquisition of the Time Square Apartments in Kingston, ensuring the property’s continued affordability for low-income seniors and disabled residents. The complex comprises 16 units, including 14 one-bedroom apartments and 2 two-bedroom apartments, all designated for individuals earning up to 30% of the Area Median Income as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The Kingston Affordable Housing Working Group (KAHWG) and Housing Kitsap became aware of the impending sale of the complex in December 2023, when Hetty Hicks, a resident of Time Square, raised concerns. While the seller had the option to sell the property for a higher price, they chose to collaborate with Housing Kitsap to preserve its affordability. Hetty has since passed away, but her advocacy for this project will be remembered for years to come.

"Hetty Hicks exemplified what it means to be a community advocate," said Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners Christine Rolfes. "Her foresight and determination to protect affordable housing for seniors and disabled residents in Kingston will leave a lasting legacy. Thanks to Hetty's actions, sixteen households will continue to have stable, affordable homes in a market where such options are increasingly scarce."

Recognizing the urgency, Housing Kitsap swiftly pursued funding opportunities to secure the purchase. To finance the acquisition, Housing Kitsap received grants from the Washington State Department of Commerce and Kitsap County's Community Investment in Affordable Housing (CIAH). Additional funding was generated through the sale of surplus commercial land owned by Housing Kitsap to Kitsap Mental Health Services for the expansion of their campus in Bremerton.

With rising rents, low vacancies, and a dwindling supply of affordable housing, the demand for such initiatives in Kitsap County has become increasingly critical. Housing Kitsap's acquisition of Time Square Apartments helps protect vital affordable housing in North Kitsap where options are few for vulnerable community members.

"This is a thrilling moment for Housing Kitsap as we expand affordable housing options throughout Kitsap County," said Housing Kitsap Executive Director Heather Blough. "We are preserving and beginning to create new affordable housing opportunities for residents to secure housing they can afford, even in a challenging rental market with high costs."

Housing Kitsap continues to prioritize the growth of affordable housing options throughout Kitsap County. One upcoming project, Southern Cross, is set for completion in 2026 on Bainbridge Island. This development features two single-family homes, each designed with inclusive Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The primary residences include three bedrooms, while the ADUs, located on the lower level, offer two bedrooms in each home for a total of four new affordable housing units.

Please join us…

To celebrate the acquisition, Housing Kitsap will hold a 'Preservation Celebration’ on May 28, 2025, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Time Square Apartments, located at 26234 Illinois Ave. NE in Kingston. Community leaders and the public are invited to attend and take part in this commemorative event.