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QuickTake:
The city is reviewing a developer’s plans to construct 120 apartment units on the site of what is now a Diamond Parking lot.
A developer is seeking the city’s permission to build a five-story affordable housing complex in the Whiteaker neighborhood.
The proposed project — named Whiteaker Commons — would be at 890 W. Fifth Ave., which is now occupied by a Diamond Parking lot. Should the city approve developer Red Apple Square LLC’s permit, a construction firm will build 120 units: 66 studios, 40 one-bedrooms and 14 two-bedrooms.
The apartment complex is intended for households earning 60% or less of the median family income. For a household of two in Eugene, that threshold is about $44,000. For a household of four, it’s about $55,000.
Blueprints for the site show plans to build a community space, dog wash, bike storage, covered parking lot and an outdoor courtyard. Dining spots like Beergarden, Tacovore and Chao Pra Ya Thai Cuisine are within blocks of the site.
The construction firm set to build the property is Eugene-based Meili Construction.
The Eugene City Council in January approved a low-income rental housing property tax exemption for the proposed project, along with two other planned developments. At the time, the city forecasted the Whiteaker Commons project to have at least 110 affordable units.
On the state side, the affordable housing project is funded by Oregon Housing and Community Services through three sources: its Local Innovation and Fast Track rental program; Private Activity Bonds, or a limited amount of tax-exempt debt approved by the state that can be used for private projects; and 4% Low Income Housing Credits, which are available to projects funded with private activity bonds.
The city aims to finish its permit review by Sept. 19.
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