Christopher Brown Leads 10-Unit Housing Community in East Tacoma: Ruth's Landing Ribbon Cutting
On September 4th, 2025, the South Tacoma community gathered at E29th Street to celebrate the completion of Ruth's Landing, a 10-unit development that marks both a housing milestone and a powerful example of family-driven development. Learn more about Ruth’s Landing breaking ground here.
The ribbon cutting ceremony brought together developers, community leaders, and neighbors to celebrate the completion of this new residential community.
From Truck Driver to Developer: Christopher Brown's Journey
Christopher Brown, who spent 20 years as a truck driver, took the helm as lead developer on his first independent project alongside his family – brother Jonathan Brown, sister Veronica Brown, and their mother, Annie Brown.
“I drove trucks for 20 years. About three years ago, my brother Reggie encouraged me to come up here and try this real estate thing, and here we are today”
- Christopher Brown
His transition was the culmination of three years of hands-on learning and mentorship that prepared him to take on full development responsibilities. Under Reggie Brown’s guidance, Christopher gained experience on major projects including the 40-unit Chelan development and 12 units on East 31st.
This progression provided him with the repetition and expertise needed to successfully manage his own project from permitting through completion.
Project Development and Community Support
While leading his first project, Christopher benefited from comprehensive 1DROP support. Reggie's systematized approach provided detailed smart sheets that guide scheduling, subcontractor management, and construction sequencing. Dominique Remy and Claude Remy also played pivotal roles in providing mentorship and technical guidance, creating a robust support network for his development debut.
Christopher also found mentorship within the inspection process itself, particularly from Inspector John Reeves, who provided valuable guidance on construction standards and inspection preparation.
“John Reeves took the time to really teach me what to do and how to do it right. He showed me how to label things to make inspections easier and helped me understand what inspectors look for”
The Ceremony
The ribbon cutting featured guided tours of the completed units, where guests explored the thoughtfully designed homes and engaged with the development team about the project's innovative approach. Throughout the event, attendees enjoyed continued networking opportunities that connected project partners with neighbors and community stakeholders, celebrating not just new housing but the collaborative spirit that made Ruth's Landing possible.
The Ripple Effect
As Christopher continues with Phase Two of the development and looks toward future projects, Ruth’s Landing stands as proof that collaborative models can deliver quality housing while creating meaningful opportunities for professional growth and community investment.
This project reflects the broader 1DROP mission of creating ripple effects throughout communities – not just in housing delivery, but in developing the next generation of community-focused developers who will continue this work for years to come.
Photo Credits: Kari Moore and Keenan Grayson.
About 1DROP
1DROP is a collective of underrepresented real estate developers addressing the Puget Sound housing crisis. We are committed to empowering underrepresented developers to build housing for all wages, all stages, and all ages while growing access to generational wealth.
1DROP achieves its mission by, externally:
Advocating for funding for underrepresented developers and their projects.
Advocating for policy solutions that enable more housing.
And internally by providing:
Apprenticeships for aspiring underrepresented developers.
Co-development for emerging underrepresented developers.
Mentorship, networking, resources and support services for all underrepresented developers.
For those inspired to learn more or get involved in supporting equitable housing, visit 1DROP's website to explore our initiatives and join us in making an impact.
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