The Urban Renewal Subject Files consist of administrative files, records of community groups, and project records. The administrative files include budgets, standards for rehabilitation, housing codes, and correspondence with the federal government regarding procedures and standards. There is also correspondence with the University of Washington and Seattle University regarding urban renewal projects. The correspondents are primarily Talbot Wegg and John P. Willison.

The organizations included in the Subject Files include community groups, such as the Lake Union Advisory Committee, but also regional groups such as the Governor's Task Force as well as groups from other cities, such as the Portland Development Commission. The records include meeting notices and minutes and correspondence regarding common interests.

The programs and projects included in the subject files are primarily the Northlake/University Addition, the Yesler Atlantic project, and the Workable Program for Community Improvement. The Workable Program was a plan of action for ridding the City of blight. The program and projects files include planning and budget information, as well as correspondence regarding the projects.