The City of Seattle is taking innovative steps to address its housing crisis by turning to mass timber construction. The Low Income Housing Institute (LIHI) has partnered with Sound Transit and the Seattle Office of Housing to build a 12-story mass timber affordable housing complex near U District Station. This project, which will receive a $15 million investment from the city, aims to provide affordable housing options for residents, including units for individuals earning 30%, 50%, and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The complex will also feature two- and three-bedroom apartments suitable for families. Once completed, it will become the tallest timber building in Seattle [ec8bca50].
The use of mass timber in construction projects is gaining popularity across the United States due to its environmental benefits. Mass timber buildings are 25% to 40% more carbon efficient than traditional steel-and-concrete structures. In addition to being more sustainable, mass timber construction can also have a calming effect on occupants, as it incorporates elements from the natural world. Seattle's embrace of mass timber construction aligns with the city's commitment to sustainability and creating a more livable environment [ec8bca50].
The decision to invest in mass timber construction was made possible by changes to the 2021 Washington State and Seattle Building Code. These changes allow developers to construct timber buildings up to 18 stories in height, making Washington the first state to permit tall mass timber buildings without requiring an alternate method. The updated code not only promotes sustainability but also reduces costs, making mass timber more attractive to developers. Seattle is now catching up to other cities in the Pacific Northwest that have already embraced mass timber construction [ec8bca50].
Seattle's investment in the mass timber affordable housing complex reflects the city's ongoing commitment to addressing its housing crisis and providing affordable housing options for its residents. By utilizing innovative construction methods and prioritizing sustainability, Seattle is taking proactive steps towards creating a more equitable and livable city [ec8bca50].