Exciting News for Redmond: Affordable Housing Community Rooted at 19th Breaks Ground
RootedHomes is taking a significant step toward addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in Redmond with the recent groundbreaking of their new community project, Rooted at 19th. On September 27th, a heartwarming ceremony brought together local leaders, including Commissioner Patti Adair, Mayor Ed Fitch, and City Councilors Evelyn and Zwicker, to mark the beginning of construction on 22 homes specifically designed for families earning less than 80% of the area median income.
The project is located on a beloved two-acre site at 345 NW 19th Street, a property rich with local history and emotion. This land was once owned by Janel, a dedicated businesswoman who raised her family there. During the groundbreaking event, Janel touched the hearts of those present as she shared stories of the vibrant memories her family created on this land. “Families will be able to share and create a community on these two acres,” Janel expressed, her voice filled with hope and nostalgia. She envisions that this project will not only preserve the legacy of her family but will also provide a nurturing space for future generations to flourish.
RootedHomes is focused on crafting more than just houses; they aim to cultivate a vibrant community. The organization’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their plans to build 22 eco-friendly homes that integrate environmental considerations into their design. However, their vision goes well beyond housing construction. They are also committed to preserving the original farmhouse on the property, allowing it to serve as a memorable piece of the community’s history.
A particularly exciting aspect of this project is the establishment of a community garden that will be developed in collaboration with the Environmental Center. Denise Rowcroft from the Environmental Center shared her enthusiasm during the groundbreaking, stating, “Wouldn’t it be cool if there was sustainable affordable housing that took place here, and we could also have a learning garden that both residents could access and students in nearby schools could access!” This garden will not only serve as a green space for the community but will also function as an educational resource, providing opportunities for local students to engage with nature and learn about sustainability practices firsthand.
Construction is set to commence this fall, with the goal of completing the homes and the garden by spring 2025. As the project moves forward, RootedHomes is dedicated to facilitating the selection process for prospective homeowners, with information sessions planned for this winter. These sessions will be crucial for families seeking to learn more about this unique opportunity to secure affordable housing in a community-focused environment.
The initiative stands out as a beacon of hope in a time when affordable housing options are increasingly scarce. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, there is a significant lack of affordable housing across the United States, a crisis that is particularly noticeable in thriving communities like Redmond. By focusing on creating sustainable living spaces for families in financial need, RootedHomes is positioning itself as a leader in making a difference in the housing landscape.
In a world where rising living costs often leave low and moderate-income families struggling, projects like Rooted at 19th remind us of the importance of community-oriented developments. They not only provide shelter but also foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose. As Redmond continues to grow and evolve, the establishment of Rooted at 19th serves as a pivotal step toward building inclusive neighborhoods where families can thrive.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting community project and the positive impacts it will have on the families and individuals of Redmond. The hope is that Rooted at 19th will inspire similar initiatives elsewhere, demonstrating that with creativity and collaboration, we can create homes and communities that truly reflect our shared values of sustainability and inclusivity.
