F.A.Q. about Affordable Housing and the St. Nicholas Site
Why is Saint Mark’s exploring affordable housing?
The Vestry has identified affordable housing as a missional initiative worthy of Saint Mark’s consideration. The continued rise in the cost of buying and renting homes in Seattle has exacerbated a housing crisis. Growth in the private market housing sector does not address the needs of those with lower incomes. More housing is needed that will remain affordable to lower-income households for the long term.
The Vestry sees the possible redevelopment of the St. Nicholas property as a strategy serving the broader vision of the Cathedral’s mission and purpose to seek and serve Christ in all persons, to strive for respect and dignity for all people, and to build on our long-term commitment to address homelessness and hunger in the Puget Sound region.
If affordable housing is developed on campus, what is envisioned?
Neighborhoods matter to the fabric and well-being of families. This project tangibly creates an opportunity for many individuals and families to experience an affordable home closely connected to schools, transit, urban amenities, and green spaces.
The AHE Committee is looking to serve a multigenerational population at a variety of lower income levels. The AHE Committee and Vestry envision the design would be fitting architecturally with campus, include initiatives to minimize carbon impact, and create opportunity for meaningful connection for residents, parishioners, and community members to interact as part of daily life including the intentional use of greenspace.
What is the plan for the St. Nicholas building?
Any change in building use would unfold over a period of a few years. The structure has aesthetic beauty, history, and personal connection for many, but also has major repair, maintenance, and operational challenges. The AHE Committee is carefully assessing the costs and benefits of preserving the building, modifying the building, or pursuing new construction with the primary goals of safety for residents, sustainability, and financial viability.
Has a decision been made?
No. This exploratory process was initiated by the Vestry at Saint Mark’s and will continue to be guided by its leadership and the work of the Affordable Housing Exploratory (AHE) Committee. Saint Mark’s recognizes there are many stakeholders in this process.
How can I learn more?
Visit this page for updates, contact affordablehousing@saintmarks.org, or subscribe to the Cathedral’s newsletter here. (Check the "All-parish Announcements & Newsletter" box.)
a forum exploring the impact of Civil Rights history and racial segregation to consider how church communities, including Saint Mark’s, have a responsibility to honest face this and respond in just ways in our time.
Join Saint Mark’s Affordable Housing Committee and Vestry leadership to learn more about next steps ahead, including sharing two potential redevelopment options – new construction and adaptive reuse of the St. Nicholas School – and to discuss unique aspects of the projects and key learnings from the past year of discernment and exploration. The forum will include a presentation with opportunity for questions and conversation. Email affordablehousing@saintmarks.org if you have a question you would like addressed at the forum.