A new 235-unit affordable housing development puts residents just steps away from public transit in Seattle.
Copperleaf Northgate marks King County’s largest investment in affordable housing with the contribution of land and $30 million in transit-oriented funding to make the project possible.
Jointly developed and owned by BRIDGE Housing and Community Roots Housing, the seven-story Copperleaf community is designed to connect affordable housing with high-capacity transit and expand access to jobs, education, and services across the region.
“Copperleaf Northgate marks an important contribution to the enhancement of the Northgate neighborhood and the quality of life for hundreds of people,” said Colleen Echohawk, CEO of Community Roots Housing. “It is our largest community to date, and its location next to the Northgate transit center makes it a true transit-oriented development—expanding access to jobs, schools, and services for so many residents while meaningfully advancing our mission to create inclusive housing and foster thriving, just communities.”
In 2021, King County entered into a development agreement with Community Roots Housing and BRIDGE Housing to redevelop the property, which previously provided 185 transit parking spaces.
King County’s Housing Finance Program, under the Department of Community and Human Services, contributed $30 million in transit-oriented development funding to this development. Under a 75-year, $1 per-year lease, King County Metro also provided land valued at approximately $12.85 million for the development.
Copperleaf also received funding support from the Seattle Housing Authority, Bank of America, and the Community Preservation Corp. It was designed by Ankrom Moisan Architects, with Walsh Construction serving as general contractor.
“At BRIDGE Housing, we believe that affordable housing is the foundation for healthy families and strong communities. Copperleaf Northgate reflects our 40-year commitment to provide quality housing and high-impact services in a vibrant, walkable neighborhood with transit at residents’ doorsteps,” said president and CEO Ken Lombard.
The development puts 211 apartments within financial reach for individuals, families, and seniors earning up to 60% of the area median income (AMI). An additional 24 apartment units are reserved for residents earning 30% to 50% of the AMI who have experienced housing instability or homelessness. Wellspring Family Services will provide supportive services to all Copperleaf residents at no cost.
Apartments range from studios to three-bedroom units, featuring modern kitchens, wood-style flooring, and scenic views. The energy-efficient and pet-friendly building also includes a community room with a kitchen and TV/media lounge, an outdoor courtyard, a makerspace, full-time maintenance staff, laundry on every floor, and extensive bike storage. Community Roots Housing is also providing all residents 18 and older with free transit passes for light rail, bus, and ferry service for up to three years.
A ground-floor day care center and commercial space are also slated to open later this year.