About Us

Our philosophy

We at RHA are part of a diverse and wonderful community. We strive every day to render excellent and caring service to all those who share the community with us. Our goal is to provide quality, affordable housing to people who choose to make Renton their home. Through continuing partnerships with our clients, service providers and other groups, our vision is to constantly work to enhance our housing programs and provide opportunities for those in the community we serve.

our history

In 1940, the federal government enacted the Lanham National Housing for Defense Act.  That Act allowed local communities to use federal funds to build public housing and other community facilities for use by defense workers and laid the foundation for the development of housing authorities across the nation.

 A year later, in 1941 as the United States prepared for its entry into World War II, the construction of planes and tanks became a national priority with the City of Renton playing a huge part. The Boeing Airplane Company begin building more planes than ever before - it became a major turning point for the city. That year Boeing built a new production facility to house it's assembly of the B-29 bomber that would be used throughout the war.  Additionally, Renton's PACCAR Company was contracted to build the Sherman M4-R1 tank.  This boom in war-time production brought to Renton an influx of middle and low-income workers that would push these vehicles to production.

The Housing Authority of the City of Renton was tasked with the job of building affordable housing for the thousands of workers now calling Renton home.  That initial project built 3,000 dwellings near the Boeing and PACCAR manufacturing lines.  By federal mandate the cost per unit could exceed no more than $3,000.

 In the 1950s most of these affordable units, many of which stand today, were sold to the defense personnel for whom the housing was constructed.  Then in 1959, RHA constructed Sunset Terrace on the existing infrastructure.  Today that area is being revitalized even further.  Sunset Terrace has given way to newer developments such as Glenwood Townhomes and groundbreaking projects like Kirkland Avenue Townhomes.

It all began with the building and sale of those initial units in 1941 and a commitment by RHA to provide affordable housing for those in need within our city.

our board of commissioners

RHA is governed by a Board of Commissioners whose members are appointed by the Mayor of Renton. You can find current and past meeting agendas and minutes in our Document Library.

 Meet our Board:

Our MISSION STATEMENT

Provide with excellence; quality, affordable housing in a safe environment for people who make Renton their home. Through partnerships with our clients, service providers and other groups, RHA will ethically and responsibly increase and enhance its housing programs to serve the community and provide opportunities for people to be their best.