Posts Tagged ‘Island Roots Housing’
Island Roots Housing breaks ground for new build: Generations Place
Finding affordable housing continues to be a challenge for many South Whidbey residents, but here in Langley, there is reason for optimism. A few weeks ago Island Roots Housing broke ground for the long-anticipated affordable housing initiative that will be located uptown of Langley.
Island Roots Housing, fiscally sponsored by the Goosefoot Community Fund, is leading the way with Generations Place, the first development to utilize Langley’s new multi-family infill code. Located at Second Street and De Bruyn Avenue, this project will feature 14 rental apartments designed for working families. Nine apartments will be reserved for households earning up to 80% of area median income, with five set aside for households at 60%.
Generations Place has secured over $2.7 million in grants and contributions from federal, state, county, city, and private donors, including support from Puget Sound Energy, Island County, the Washington State Legislature, and the City of Langley. These investments will not only fund construction but also critical infrastructure upgrades.
Though pre-construction requires time and coordination, Island Roots Housing’s Managing Director Rose Hughes emphasizes that the project is moving forward with care to meet federal standards and sustainable building practices. A groundbreaking date is anticipated in 2025.…
Read MoreLangley Chamber July Members Meeting Recap: Housing, Resilience & the Arts Take Center Stage
The Langley Chamber of Commerce July Members Meeting brought together local leaders and visionaries working toward a more resilient, vibrant, and inclusive South Whidbey community. Here’s a quick look at the highlights:
A Big Step for Affordable Housing
Rose Hughes, Managing Director of Island Roots Housing, shared long-awaited good news: Langley’s first permanent affordable workforce housing project, Generations Place, is slated to break ground this fall. For years, housing scarcity has challenged small business owners in hospitality and retail to retain staff. This new development in downtown Langley will provide much-needed housing to help support the local workforce that is constantly in flux with the nature of our unique location. Labor shortage and housing issues work in tandem and if we can get on the same page as to remedy the turnover, our community can THRIVE… not just survive.
Goosefoot’s Growing Impact
Elise Miller, Executive Director of the Goosefoot Community Fund, touched on their longstanding support of Island Roots, once a non-profit incubator project. Goosefoot continues to uplift the community—announcing the expansion of the Goose Community Grocer Bakery (an appropriate name is in the works!) into the former Big Wierzbowski location. The new space will (hopefully!) include a café space, creating a welcoming Bayview Corner-style hangout in the Goose Grocer shopping plaza. Just picture it… soon we’ll be able to shop at Island Boutique, Casey’s Crafts, and Sebo’s Do-it Center… and all commune together at the cafe nearby!
Preparedness in an Island Community
Benjamin Corteau of Flying Bear Farm and South Whidbey Prepares reminded us that preparedness is key, especially during peak visitor seasons. Earthquakes, flooding, and landslides are real threats to our island geography. Ben emphasized the importance of community resilience through neighborhood mapping, to-go kits, and having workplace and household plans in place. Start small: store water today. Learn more by attending one of their Safety Meetings.
Langley’s Creative Identity Gets a Boost
Langley Chamber Executive Director Nicole Whittington-Johnson wrapped up with exciting news: Langley has been recertified as a Washington …
