Project Development Updates
Your support makes these exciting projects possible!
A First for Ferndale
KulshanCLT plans to build 80+ homes on this lot in Ferndale.
KulshanCLT has been working with Whatcom County staff on the purchase of an 8.2 acre parcel at 2039 Thornton Rd in Ferndale. We could build at least 80 homes there! It will be our largest project to date and our first new construction development in Ferndale. It will include a mix of single-family homes, zero-lot-line townhomes, and co-op homes. We are also seeking a partner(s) to build and manage affordable rental apartments and an early childhood center. Whatcom County is working to provide a grant utilizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for the acquisition. We’re excited for the opportunity to build permanently affordable homes for families in Ferndale.
Next 4 Homes at Telegraph
Representative Alicia Rule discussed affordable homeownership and toured the Telegraph Townhomes project with our Executive Director, Dean Fearing, and Board Vice President, Michael Chiavario.
Families are enjoying their new homes in the first eight Telegraph Townhomes. Two sisters got to move into the last two homes. The next four homes are estimated to be finished this August. The final 11 homes of this first phase will begin construction this fall, with hopes of a 2024 completion.
We’ve begun planning for Phase 2 at Telegraph which will be 25 or more townhomes. It’s KulshanCLT’s first opportunity to build homes for families earning up to 120% of area median income. (With average home prices now above $650,000, starter homes no longer exist for families earning wages up to 120% AMI.) This project is a partnership with Habitat for Humanity and the Whatcom Community Foundation.
Even More Updates
Earlier in 2022, KulshanCLT began working with CAZ Construction on a home in the Sunnyland neighborhood. This is a great infill opportunity close to jobs, schools and services. This home is possible thanks to Bellingham City Council voting to surplus this parcel to KulshanCLT to build a permanently affordable home. Site preparation is complete and hopefully this home will be built by Summer 2023. Swing by 611 Texas St in Bellingham and take a look if you’d like!
City Sprouts farmers, Annah and Ellie, at a farmers market
Over at the Birchwood project, City Sprouts Farm is kicking off their growing season and CSA. You’ll find them at local farmer’s markets. Site development work and demolition of some existing buildings is planned for this year with a goal to begin construction of 9+ energy efficient homes in 2023. This unique development opportunity includes the one acre of farmland that City Sprouts currently farms.
Executive Director, Dean Fearing, presented to Blaine City Council and has been working with Blaine City staff to explore opportunities for developing homes in Blaine. Like other cities in Whatcom County, Blaine has been hit hard with rapidly rising home prices. Some of Blaine's largest employers are finding it difficult to attract and retain employees, as wages aren’t keeping up with home prices. Our local economy is starting to feel that impact.
If you’ve done your math in this section, you’ll see KulshanCLT plans to build at least 35 homes within the next three years! Please consider a gift of any amount to increase our capacity and enable us to take advantage of opportunities coming our way.
