On June 3, the city of North Bend released a proposal request for a 0.4-acre affordable housing project at 230 Main Ave. South.

First purchased by the city in November 2023 using real estate and excise taxes, the empty lot is located just outside the downtown core of the city — across the street from the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank — and will be reserved for tenants who make at or below 60% of the Area Medium Income (AMI), according to the request.

The purchase came after the city approved an Economic Development and Housing Action Plan in 2023, which identified a lack of affordable housing as the city’s top challenge, according to a Valley Record article.

According to the city’s Community and Economic Development department, 26% of all households within city limits spend more than 30% of their income on housing-related costs, which, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, defines them as cost-burdened.

“The city is seeking an entity, organization or consortium of organizations to construct and manage affordable rental housing on the property,” according to the proposal.

The request set forth several goals for potential proposals, including maintaining the city’s design standards while providing a variety of housing types and price ranges to increase livability within the city.

The city blamed recent growth in the region for the increase in housing costs, and is aiming for the property to alleviate some of its workforce housing needs.

“The city wishes to encourage proposals that demonstrate financial feasibility and sustainability combined with exceptionally strong design and a proven track record of quality affordable housing construction and management that meets the city’s goals,” according to the request.

City staff and interested developers will meet on June 24 to discuss the project and address any questions about the submittal process.

Proposals must be mailed to James Henderson, the city’s economic development manager, at 920 SE Cedar Falls Way, North Bend, WA 98045, or delivered in person to North Bend City Hall by noon Aug. 2.

Submitted proposals will be evaluated by a city-approved committee the week of Aug. 19, followed by interviews scheduled during the weeks of Sept. 9 and Sept. 16.

The North Bend City Council will approve a contract in November or December 2024.