Washington County News August 2026
Cornell Road Transitional Housing meeting
Tuesday, August 18, 5:30-7 pm, Bethany Library Annex, 4888 NW Bethany Blvd, Suite K-2
Washington County Homeless Services is getting ready to open a transitional housing facility this fall for individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability at the former hotel at 15402 NW Cornell Rd., near the intersection of Cornell and Highway 26. It will offer on-site recovery services, 24/7 staffing and security, with the goal of helping residents transition to stable, long-term housing within two years.
The next community meeting for Cornell Road Transitional Housing will be an informal space where community members can review the second draft of the GNA, stay informed on project updates, and continue relationship building with the organization that has been selected to manage the facility—Helping Hands Reentry Outreach Centers (HOPE), and with Washington County Department of Housing.
The second draft of the GNA will be shared via email and on the website prior to the event. If you haven’t already, you can request to be added to the interested parties list by emailing Homeless_Services@WashingtonCountyOR.gov.
The team will address feedback from neighbors—the need for more clarity and specificity; response time, procedures, and follow up for Helping Hands, law enforcement, and emergency services at the facility and in the surrounding neighborhood; program participant accountability and confidentiality; and reporting on progress and outcomes. Read the updated FAQ here. If neighbors have additional questions, they may reach out to us directly at homeless_services@washingtoncountyor.gov.
Recycling update
Washington County Solid Waste and Recycling Department has shared a helpful list of what can and can’t be recycled curbside, preventing food waste, how to recycle or dispose of household items, and how to get the Garbage & Recycling Day app. Learn more on the “At Home” page.
Economic Recovery Insights released
Washington County’s Economic Recovery and Resiliency Report highlights how American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) investments supported local recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic from 2021 to 2026. The report showcases collaboration across the region’s economic network and outcomes for small businesses, workers, and community partners.
As a result of the investments, over 980 small businesses were supported and nearly 2,000 workers engaged in training. Community members are encouraged to explore the full report for deeper insights into Washington County’s economic resilience efforts.
