Development News for Everett, Washington

Everett Housing Authority Prioritizes Baker Heights Demolition Amidst Funding Challenges and Long-Term Redevelopment Plans

The Everett Housing Authority (EHA) provided an update on the Baker Heights development, which includes 43 vacant structures and 190 units across 12 acres, built in the early 1940s. The structures have been vacant since 2019 and pose significant health and safety risks due to hazardous materials like lead-based paint and asbestos, as well as attracting vandalism and unauthorized occupancy. EHA's priority is the abatement of hazardous materials and demolition of the existing structures, with an estimated cost of $10 million. EHA is actively seeking funding through federal and state grants, including applications to the EPA's Brownfield Cleanup Grant Program and congressionally directed spending requests. They are also exploring internal resources and potential city partnerships to fund this phase. The long-term vision for the site is a multi-phase, mixed-income, mixed-use neighborhood with up to 1,500 homes, retail space, childcare, public park space, and a community center. While demolition is the immediate focus, the development of the Park District project, a market-rate, mixed-use neighborhood, is also being assessed with the help of a development consultant for phasing and financing. The original requirement was to replace 244 income-restricted units within the city, which is being addressed through other EHA developments.