‘La Pine needs this’: Groundbreaking held for 39-unit affordable apartments near Wickiup Junction
(Update: Adding video, adding comments from FFAH, veterans, Deschutes County Commissioners)
La PINE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Foundation for Affordable Housing broke ground Thursday in La Pine on a 39-unit apartment building serving individuals and families who make 30-60% of the Area Median Income.
Jillian Fortner attended the groundbreaking ceremony this afternoon. Her report airs on KTVZ News at 6 p.m.
The Wickiup Station Apartments will be built on a one-acre site on Drafter Road in the Wickiup Junction area.
"It has a bit lower income overall, compared to the rest of the county," foundation Chief Strategy Officer Tommy Waldron said. "The amount of housing choices are very limited in La Pine. So there's a big need here."
Once completed, the 39 units will offer a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom options, with rents starting close to $600/month and all utilities included.
Foundation President Deborrah Willard said, "They'll accommodate families as well. So we're looking for a pretty good mix here. We're looking for veterans. We're looking for possibly some seniors and some families."
Ten units will be reserved for veterans.
Veteran Rick Davis said, "Housing down here is very expensive. Unfortunately, not a lot of veterans have the money it takes to rent some of the housing down here."
Deschutes County commissioners spoke at the groundbreaking Thursday to support the project.
"I wanted to particularly thank them for helping us reduce homelessness," said Commissioner Phil Chang.
Construction on the project is beginning this spring, with an estimated completion date in the summer of 2026.
Davis said, "The more housing that we can find for veterans, the better off the whole entire veteran community is. La Pine needs this."
Upon completion, the property will feature a range of amenities, including a large community room, game rooms, fitness area and a common deck. The grounds will also include a playground, raised bed gardens, covered bike storage and natural areas.
For information on leasing a unit, email contact@ffah.org.
