The entire state of Oregon is facing a housing crisis, and the coast – where second homes and short-term rentals can skew the market – is no exception. “Think Out Loud” traveled to Lincoln County recently to talk about solutions. 

We had a series of conversations about different approaches residents and organizations are taking to create more units, more affordability and more stability so that existing homeowners can stay in their homes.

We started in Newport, where Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center is putting the finishing touches on a new apartment complex. When it’s done, it will house visiting researchers and students.

Bob Cowen recently retired as the director of the center. He took us on a tour of the building and talked about the need for workforce housing in Lincoln County.