Plans are under way to construct the first LGBTQ+ affordable housing complex in the state. The Equality Community Center in Portland is spearheading a project that will establish a first-of-its-kind complex in the center of downtown.

“To have something right downtown Portland for the LGBT community to be part of is huge,” said Ed Gardner.

Gardner, a well-known businessman and ECC founder, provided the property for the structure. The community center’s parking lot will soon be transformed into a five-story structure featuring apartments, parking, and a café. 

54 reasonably priced apartments for those 55 and above are to be made available. Eleven apartments are designated for individuals with HIV/AIDS or impairments. Resources will also be made available to those people via collaborations with the Independence Association and the Frannie Peabody Center.

According to Gardener, the establishment will house a vulnerable population where they may receive necessary services and acceptance.

“I think we’ll be able to see them come out and be more part of the community rather than being stuck in their homes and not have anybody to socialize with,” he stated. 

The ECC was first launched in 2021 by Gardner and a group of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, offering a secure meeting place for the community and equality organizations. Nearly 20 organizations now call it home, and it hosts programming and events every day.

“It offers a nice environment where you can live with individuals that will not treat you badly. Thus, it’s a place to live and a community center combined into one “explained center volunteer Christine Caulfield. 

The organization declared last week that project preparations were finalized, despite years of fundraising. People in the neighborhood who want to make it their home have already flooded the executive director Chris O’Connor with requests.

“At the moment, we have 150 people on the interest list,” O’Connor stated. “It’s actually happening.”

The majority of the project’s funding comes from contributions, with assistance from Portland, MaineHousing, and other organizations. Their goal is to have it finished by the spring of 2026.