Public hearing June 15 on proposed Edmonds Way Apartments

Citizens will have a chance to ask questions and comment during a City of Edmonds-sponsored meeting June 15 regarding the Edmonds Way Apartments, a mixed-use development that’s been proposed for Edmonds Way east of Westgate Chapel.

According to project architect Chris Davidson of Studio Meng Strazzara, the  86-unit apartment building/commercial structure is divided into two structures, each with separate zoning, and are designed for tenants who are median-income young professionals and possibly young families.

The North Building, described as a “contemporary woody walk-up,” is strictly residential, with three floors of two-bedroom apartments for a total of 29 units. “This building definitely takes cues from the surrounding apartment complexes with the exterior stair access,” Davidson said.  “However, those cues are twisted just a bit and made a little more contemporary and fun,” including vibrant colors and modern materials.

The South Building includes four floors and is completely mixed use, featuring three floors of residential for 89 total units, with a mix of open studio alcoves, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. The SouthBuilding’s  ground floor includes 2,500 square feet devoted to amenities for residents, including a club house and fitness room, plus 3,500 square feet of office/retail space.

The project has several environmentally friendly features, Davidson said, including:
–  rain gardens to infiltrate storm runoff on the south portion of the site and create a “park-like feel” at the corner of Edmonds Way and 232nd.
– infiltration piping for on-site water filtration, reducing the amount of runoff that gets pumped into the city’s stormwater system.
– Twelve-foot-wide, floor-to-ceiling glass sliders as primary windows in most units, with small decks to allow for natural ventilation.
-Dedicated parking stalls for electric cars.

The developer, Goodman Real Estate, is evaluating the possibility of pursuing LEED certification, Davidson added.

“The project is a bit unique along Edmonds Way in that this building is directly adjacent to Edmonds Way while the other surrounding buildings are set back off of the street,”  said Davidson, adding that the goal is “creating a strong street presence and along the busy corridor.”

You can see the design review application here. The public hearing on the proposal starts at 7 p.m. June 15 in the City Council Chamber, Public Safety Complex, 250 5th Ave. N.