IN DEVELOPMENT

DANFORTH ON HIGH

This project began when the City of Portland issued a competitive request for proposals for a small city-owned lot within walking distance to many of downtown Portland's jobs and destinations, and just blocks away from four major bus lines.

The Developers Collaborative's winning proposal envisioned 26 small condominiums targeted towards a market of first-time homebuyers. These homes will be affordable without any taxpayer subsidies by virtue of several creative design elements: the units themselves are small, but shared amenities like a basement workshop, a guest room, and a lounge give residents access to more space when they need it.

The aspect of the development that may be receiving the most attention is its approach to parking and transportation. The project secured a variance from the Portland's demanding parking requirements by offering two shared cars that will be owned by the condo association and rented to residents on an hourly basis, as needed. The rest of the project's 14 parking spaces will be sold at a price that reflects their cost of construction.

Reducing the project's parking needs will reduce construction costs considerably and allows the building to dedicate more space for living, instead of for parking. It will also save a lot of money for the building's future residents. While automobiles are a depreciating asset and a huge expense for most households, the shared cars at Danforth and High will allow occasional drivers the opportunity to get rid of their cars and invest the savings in a home of their own.

FAST FACTS

Location:
Corner of Danforth and High Streets, downtown Portland

Completion Date:
Ongoing

Project Scope:
26 Efficiency Condominiums

Lead Developer :
Peter Bass