Local Market Rate Developer is First and Only in SW Washington to Launch Voluntary Income Restricted Housing Program; Killian Pacific also Raises the Bar on Inclusive Contracting and Delivers Unmatched Eco-Friendly Community
PORTLAND, Ore. (October 23rd, 2023) — Killian Pacific, a Pacific Northwest real estate developer and placemaker, is celebrating the completion of Ninebark, a 246-unit residential community nestled along the picturesque Columbia River waterfront in Southwest Washington. The development showcases Killian Pacific’s commitment to building sustainable, vibrant, and enduring places that have a lasting impact on the communities it serves. With Ninebark, Killian Pacific envisioned a one-of-a-kind project that aims to provide top of the market housing options in Southwest Washington, while addressing the region’s challenges around housing affordability and workforce diversity.
At Ninebark, with the first-of-its-kind Voluntary Income Restricted Housing Program (VIRHP) in the region, Killian Pacific voluntarily designated 10% of the apartment homes –equating to 24 – as affordable, making them available to households who make 80% or less than the Median Family Income. The program ensures residents’ monthly housing expenses won’t exceed more than 30% of their monthly income and follows the same certification process as the Vancouver Housing Authority to ensure units are offered to those who need it most. Additionally, all utilities are included for residents in those 24 apartments. Killian Pacific’s choice to designate a portion of Ninebark as affordable is rooted in its commitment to making quality homes accessible to a wide range of individuals and families. All 24 units, which range from studio to 3-bedroom, are currently leased.
“We understand the steep challenges our region faces regarding housing affordability” said Michi Slick, Killian Pacific’s Principal, Development. “We felt compelled to be a part of the solution and explore a new model where market rate can be both financially viable and a catalyst for good.”
In addition to the affordability component, Killian Pacific awarded 27 percent of its total development construction costs (TDCC) for Ninebark – over $12.6 million – to Minority-and-Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs). Plus, 52 percent of all journeymen and apprenticeship hours were done by individuals who identify as women and/or a minority. This is the second project Killian Pacific has partnered with the National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) to meet the firm’s inclusive contracting goal of at least 25% TDCC on all developments, an unprecedented accomplishment in the region. Also, inclusive job site culture training was provided quarterly for the general contractor and subcontractor teams during Ninebark’s construction. Ninebark general contractor was Robert & Olson Construction.
Located at 600 South Marina Way on nearly nine acres between Camas and Washougal, Washington, Ninebark features eight residential buildings with a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. An amenity building known as the Riverside Retreat includes a fully stocked resident Gear Shed – with standup paddleboards, kayaks, and other gear – grand living room, coworking spaces, a river-facing entertaining kitchen and patio, and a fitness center.
Ninebark is surrounded by expansive views of the Columbia River, and in a unique public private partnership, Killian Pacific built a 1-acre public space called Eagle View Park, that lines the property’s edge to the river. Ninebark is an all-electric community and incorporates a range of sustainability features, such as a 6,400-square-foot pollinator garden, on-site beehives managed by urban beekeeping company Alvéole, 72 electric vehicle charging stations, and has achieved certifications from Salmon-Safe, Fitwel, National Living Future Institute’s Zero Energy, and the National Wildlife Federation’s Garden for Wildlife.
“At Ninebark, we aimed to create a truly unique project for the region,” Slick added. “Killian Pacific’s approach is to provide superior investment opportunities for our partners while addressing the responsibility and impact we have on our community through our projects. We are proud of the team and partners at Ninebark who boldly challenged conventions and collaborated with us to redefine how real estate is developed. We are dedicated to creating inclusive and enduring places that will pave a positive legacy for future generations. Our hope is to inspire others in the industry to join us in reshaping the way we envision and build communities.”
Ninebark has achieved more than 50% occupancy since its full market completion in August 2023. The community’s property management partner, CloudTen Residential, celebrated the ceremonial grand opening of Ninebark, along with residents, members of the local community, partners, and anyone interested in learning more, on Thursday, Oct. 12th at the Riverside Retreat.
About Killian Pacific
Founded in 1971, Killian Pacific owns, manages, and develops meaningful places that sustain and enhance communities in Oregon and Washington.
