In November 2013, Imagine Housing started building Velocity, a beautiful new affordable housing community within the South Kirkland Park and Ride redevelopment. A year later, the company celebrated the grand opening as 58 families and individuals are welcomed into their new homes.

The grand opening took place on Sept. 26 in Kirkland at Velocity Apartments.

US Rep. Suzan DelBene, King County Executive Dow Constantine and King County Councilmember Jane Hague spoke during the event.

Apartments range from studios to three-bedrooms and allow for individuals as well as families to reside in this affordable housing. Imagine Housing also offers on-site supportive services, including case management for formerly homeless individuals and after-school programming for kids to ensure that residents have the critical foundation of housing and support to excel.

Imagine Housing joined with Polygon Northwest on this transit-oriented development project. SMR Architects and W.G. Clark Construction designed and built the building, finishing the project on time and on budget.

“Mixed income development supports a strong Eastside,” Executive Director Ann Levine said. “As we seek to grow and support local businesses, we need to offer affordable housing options for people across the income spectrum. This development will allow people the opportunity to live, work and thrive in our East King County community.”

Velocity meets Evergreen standards for energy efficiency, saving valuable resources and contributing to a clean planet. The homes have been built with both the residents and sustainability in mind, achieving a balance between gorgeous finishes and long-term durability with environmentally-friendly materials. Velocity has a living green roof that is beautiful and soothing while also reducing water runoff and turbidity into the storm sewer system. In addition, Imagine Housing incorporated many other environmentally friendly elements into Velocity: universal design and full visit-ability; allergen reducing adhesives and paints; sustainable materials; construction waste recycling; low flow fixtures; and LED and low-energy light fixtures throughout the building.

Velocity Apartments is located at 10711 NE 37th Court in Kirkland.

For more information visit www.imaginehousing.org.