Federal Way city officials gathered with residents at Southridge House February 2 to celebrate more than $2.5 million in renovations to the public housing property.

Southridge House, an 80-unit building for residents who are elderly and/or have disabilities, is owned and operated by the King County Housing Authority.

Federal Way City Manager Neal Beets, city council members and staff mingled with residents over coffee and morning treats.

"It's beautiful," said Federal Way City Councilmember Jeanne Burbidge, on a tour of the property. "People can be proud of living here."

A soothing color palette of sage green and wheat has brightened up hallways and common spaces in the six-story building. Finished walls touched with soft, ambient lighting have replaced the former institutional-looking cinder blocks. Each apartment now has a new door outfitted with a security peephole.

The renovation project also included significant upgrades to vital fire and life safety equipment, including fire sprinklers and a fire pump generator. "Federal Way is glad to have been able to assist with these needed improvements," said Federal Way City Councilmember Linda Kochmar. Federal Way allocated $125,000 to the project from their share of the King County Community Development Block Grant Program.

Southridge resident Phyllis Haines said the changes have been a noticeable improvement to her home.

"I think it's really nice," Haines said. "It looks much better now than it did before."

KCHA administers a range of quality affordable rental and homeownership programs for residents of King County. The Authority serves more than 17,000 households, including family, elderly and disabled households.