SLU Targets Affordable Housing Options
While most of South Lake Union’s construction news have focused on glitzy office complexes and lifestyle condominiums, several affordable housing projects are also under construction or have been proposed for the area.
On the South-West of edge of SLU, Vulcan is currently constructing the Borealis Apartments. Of the 53 units available, 50 will be priced for those making 80% the median income.
Towards the Northend of the SLU district, a low-income senior housing project and an apartment for mentally-ill homeless persons are planned. The Low Income Housing Institute is developing the 6-story Cascade Senior Housing complex near Republican and Minor. The project includes 50 apartment homes for seniors (62 and older) who earn less than $27,250 per person/year. Construction is slated to begin in March 2008 with a 2009 completion date.
Cascade Senior Housing, image courtesy of Runberg Architecture
Nearby, the Downtown Emergency Service Center is planning a 6-story, 83-unit apartment complex to serve mentally-ill homeless adults. The DESC will begin construction around mid-2008. Both projects will include a library, computer labs, exercise facilities and common areas. They will also help assuage community concerns over the loss of affordable housing options for people in need who currently call the area home.
DESC, image courtesy of SMR
The mixture of housing options, businesses and recreation will help define SLU as a true urban center.