Kenmore City Council advances affordable housing project with Imagine Housing

In the heart of Kenmore, Washington, a vision for affordable housing is taking shape, as city officials and community leaders gathered to discuss a promising new development. The meeting, held on January 29, 2025, highlighted the city’s ongoing commitment to addressing housing needs, a priority that has consistently ranked at the top of the Kenmore City Council's agenda since 2021.

The proposed project centers around a city-owned parcel located near the downtown core, just behind a local Safeway. This vacant lot, purchased by the city in 2022, presents a unique opportunity to transform the area into a mixed-use space that will provide much-needed rental and homeownership options for residents. City officials emphasized that this initiative is not just about building homes; it’s about creating a vibrant community hub that aligns with Kenmore's long-term vision for growth and sustainability.

During the meeting, city representatives detailed the timeline of the project, which began with a request for proposals issued in August 2023. This call invited developers and nonprofits to submit innovative ideas for the site. By December 2023, Imagine Housing was selected to lead the development, marking a significant step forward in the city’s housing strategy. The collaborative effort has involved extensive discussions to ensure the project meets community needs while adhering to regulatory requirements.

As the meeting progressed, attendees were encouraged to engage through questions and comments, reflecting the city’s commitment to transparency and community involvement. The outreach efforts aim to keep residents informed and involved as the project moves toward a purchase and sale agreement, expected to be presented to the city council in March.

With affordable housing being a critical issue in many communities, Kenmore’s proactive approach serves as a model for other cities facing similar challenges. The excitement surrounding this development underscores a collective hope for a future where all residents have access to safe and affordable housing options. As plans continue to unfold, the community watches closely, eager to see how this vision will transform their neighborhood.