OPAL’s Renovation of Lavender Hollow Apartments Begins

Justin Paulsen, left and Jeremy King, right, consult with OPAL’s Jeanne Beck on renovation plans for Lavender Hollow

Work began last week to upgrade and extend the life of the eight buildings that make up the Lavender Hollow apartment complex in Eastsound. Lavender Hollow was purchased last year by OPAL Community Land Trust with the goal of preserving the 22 rental units and continuing to serve islanders with very low incomes. The acquisition and renovations are supported by a grant from the Washington State Housing Trust Fund.

According to Lisa Byers, OPAL’s executive director, the work will focus on 20-year lifecycle replacement and repairs, accessibility upgrades and improving energy efficiency. Health of the property’s wetland will also be addressed.

The $900,000 project includes replacing exterior siding, replacing roofing, improving ADA accessibility to the office and two apartments, increasing office space, and upgrading laundry equipment, apartment appliances, cabinets and some flooring. Energy improvements include replacing windows, heating systems, lighting and insulation. Eradication of mold and enhanced ventilation will improve air quality. The work is scheduled to be completed this fall.

“Many of the residents are long-term tenants,” said Jeanne Beck, OPAL’s project manager. “With a possible few exceptions for short periods of time, they will all be able to remain in their homes during the renovation project. We appreciate the patience it takes to live through a renovation and will do our best to minimize the disruption.

After a lengthy, competitive review process, local contractor Terra Firma, NW LLC, was awarded the contract for the work. Terra Firma’s managing partners are Justin Paulsen and Brandon Bolt. The project architect is Sharon Robinson of the Zervas Group, Bellingham.

OPAL stands for “Of People and Land,” representing a commitment to protecting natural resources while providing permanently affordable homes for people who are vital to the Orcas Island community. Incorporated in 1989, OPAL now provides homes for 121 households. OPAL continues to accept applications from people who are not able to purchase a house on the open market. For more information, go to: www.opalclt.org. For further information, call OPAL at (360) 376-3191.