Capital budget boosts Commerce funding for rural broadband, community behavioral health facilities, housing

When Governor Inslee signed the new budgets this month, Commerce programs received strong support for our mission of strengthening communities.

In addition to rural broadband, highlights in the capital budget included:

Housing Trust Fund investments will provide 4,100 new affordable housing units, including 500 aging units and rent assistance to local communities for 1,000 more people and permanent supportive housing for 135 more homeless families

Community Behavioral Health Facilities received an unprecedented $118 million capital investment to increase capacity for community-based mental health crisis and treatment as an alternative to large state institutions. The state’s commitment near rivals its investment in affordable housing and public works infrastructure.

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