Kathy Cruz
kcruz@ptleader.com

As part of its efforts to address the local housing crisis, Bayside Housing and Services has purchased the Starrett House with the intention of converting the historic Victorian bed and breakfast into affordable housing for working women.
The nonprofit announced the news in its August newsletter, stating that more details will be announced later. The Leader was unsuccessful in its’ attempts to reach a Bayside representative.
Based on Bayside’s announcement, the house will continue to be operated as a bed and breakfast while agency representatives work through the specifics of converting it into long-term housing.
Even though details are still being worked out, “our intent is to focus primarily on workforce housing for employed women and on being dedicated stewards of this iconic local treasure,” the announcement stated.
Bayside has developed a five-year maintenance plan to appropriately care for the historic property, according to the newsletter.
Built in 1889, Starrett House boasts one of the last remaining free-floating spiral grand staircases in the country along with 11 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a library, a parlor, and a sitting room. It is within walking distance of uptown Port Townsend and offers views of the Salish Sea and Port Townsend Bay. In addition to serving as a bed and breakfast, the stately home has been used for group retreats and private events.
Bayside, which provides wrap-around care in the form of housing and advocacy, is pursuing grants to cover long-term expenses for the Starrett housing project.
“We look forward to announcing opportunities in the near future for neighbors and other friends of Bayside to visit the Starrett House to hear more about plans as they develop,” agency officials announced.
“And most especially, we look forward to providing more resources for local working people.”