Building construction is under way at Wild Rose Meadow (formally called the Mt. Baker Road Project), Of People and Land (OPAL) Community Land Trust’s next neighborhood.

Although site construction commenced in March, building construction was delayed because construction changed from modular homes to the less expensive factory-built framing method requiring permits from the County instead of the State Department of Labor and Industries. According to OPAL the new construction method will produce minimal construction waste.

The initial panel installation crew of 12 is expected to arrive Aug. 11. Four to six weeks later all 18 homes will be up and finish work will be under way, according to Justin Paulson, general contractor for the project.

The total project budget at Wild Rose Meadow for delivering 32 permanently affordable homes is $9.8 million. OPAL has secured or received conditional commitments for just over $9 million of that total.

“Eighteen homes are spoken for and an additional 82 households have applied to OPAL for a home. Some of those are hoping to be one of the 14 homebuyers in the second phase,” adds Julie Brunner, OPAL housing manager. Prior to commencing construction on the second phase, OPAL must raise the final $800,000 from individuals and foundations. OPAL hopes to commence construction on Phase II in the summer of 2009.

OPAL’s stated mission is 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 65 households on Orcas Island, and continues to accept applications from people who are not able to purchase a home in the traditional market. More information is available at www.opalclt.org and 376-3191.