Leavenworth seeks community ideas for innovative housing solutions

LEAVENWORTH — The City of Leavenworth’s Housing Advisory Committee (HAC) is looking for innovative solutions from the community to address workforce and housing affordability needs.

As part of its “Build it Together Leavenworth: Community Housing & Workforce Innovation Challenge,” the HAC wants stakeholders — including builders, developers, architects, business leaders, financiers, and community advocates — to submit proposals that blend creativity and feasibility.

The City of Leavenworth has earmarked up to $500,000 for one or more selected projects. It is also committing other support, such as regulatory and permitting assistance, dedicated facilitation, and other municipal resources.

The HAC is looking for proposals that address one or more focus areas: workforce housing, infrastructure, land use and zoning, sustainability, accessibility, and long-term viability. Proposals could include projects that develop workforce housing, balance rental and ownership options, improve infrastructure, or repurpose existing sites in ways that promote community integration. The committee is also interested in ideas that integrate environmentally aware plans, ensure accessibility for all ages and abilities, and demonstrate sustained maintenance and affordability.

According to the City of Leavenworth, the “Community Housing & Workforce Innovation Challenge” was built on the momentum of the “Housing a Community” sessions that were a part of the community visioning process in fall 2024. The challenge aims to address the city’s affordable housing needs by empowering community collaboration, fostering innovation and practicality, promoting long-term sustainability, and securing dedicated city support.

The HAC says it will evaluate proposals based on alignment with housing development goals, financial feasibility, transparency, timeline readiness, compliance and community impact. Submissions should include a cover page/executive summary, detailed project description, team profiles, a financial overview, project timeline, site analysis and regulatory considerations, and long-term strategy.

Candidates can ask questions and request clarification about the process until Dec. 18, with proposal submissions due by Jan. 12. Finalists will meet with the HAC in February to present their ideas and answer follow-up questions. The HAC plans to select a final candidate and make a recommendation to the Leavenworth City Council on March 26.

More information about how to submit a proposal can be found on the City of Leavenworth website. Questions can also be directed to City Clerk Andrea Fischer at afischer@cityofleavenworth.com.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media